Pirates Sign Third-Round Pick Josh Hartle
The Pittsburgh Pirates have secured the signing of Josh Hartle, a left-handed pitcher from Wake Forest, who was selected in the third round of the 2024 draft.
Initially seen as a potential first-round pick, Hartle faced challenges during his junior year with the Demon Deacons.
In 2023, Hartle had an impressive season with an 11-2 record, a 2.81 ERA, and 140 strikeouts in 102.1 innings over 18 appearances (17 starts), earning him first-team All-ACC honors. However, this past year, the 21-year-old recorded a 6-3 record with a 5.79 ERA and 81 strikeouts in 74.2 innings from 15 starts.
Despite the setback, the Pirates chose Hartle with the 83rd pick, confident in his potential.
“He didn’t have the best year, he would be the first to admit that,” said Pirates amateur scouting director Justin Horowitz. “He tried some adjustments at the beginning of the season that didn’t really flow as well as he expected. We’re gonna help him get back to being the guy we all know is in there, and who we thought he’d be coming into the spring. We’re really excited about the opportunity to work with Josh.”
Ranked as MLB Pipeline’s No. 70 draft-eligible prospect this year, the 6-foot-5 lefty’s standout pitch is an above-average slider. He also throws a fastball, cutter, and changeup with solid control.
Hartle signed with the Pirates for $850,000, as reported by Pipeline, below the $920,800 slot value for the 83rd pick.