Drew Maggi’s Call to Big Leagues is Full-Circle Moment

Back in 2010, the Pittsburgh Pirates selected Drew Maggi in the 15th round of the MLB Draft out of Arizona State University.

13 years later, Maggi is back with the Pirates and he had his contract selected by the club from Double-A Altoona on Sunday. “You know, kind of full-circle being with the Pirates 10 years ago and then kind of going through my journey with different organizations… today is finally a day that I get to (be in Pittsburgh) is special,” Maggi said.

Maggi, 33, has played in 1,155 minor league games across his 13 years of professional baseball. However, he has yet to take an at-bat in the big leagues.

In addition to the Pirates, Maggi also spent time in the Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, Cleveland Indians, Minnesota Twins and Philadelphia Phillies organizations. The Pirates re-acquired Maggi from the Phillies last season.

Maggi first was first called up to the majors on Sep. 18, 2021 while with the Twins but did not appear in a game. He was optioned back to the minor leagues two days later.

In eight games with Altoona this season, Maggi hit .194 with a double, three RBIs and a stolen base.

The infielder is coming off of an excellent spring training with the Pirates in which he slashed .344/.417/.618 with two doubles, three home runs and nine RBIs in 26 games and put himself into the conversation to crack the roster. Ultimately, the Pirates decided to go in another direction.

“I knew it was possible, but you know I thought that a lot of times. I’ve had some good seasons where I was like I feel ready, this is the year and you know it just didn’t happen. I did think that I had a really good spring, got to know the guys, Shelty, it was awesome to me. I didn’t think (the call) was going to happen this early,” Maggi said.

If and when Maggi steps onto the field, it will officially mark his big league debut, though no assurances have been made it will happen.

“No, there’s no guarantee. Yeah, I probably should get in writing,” Maggi joked. “I’m excited to be here, man. You know, this team is playing really well… I’m just here to kind of be a small part in the winning mindset that’s going on here. If my name’s called, yeah I’m ready to go.”

Regardless of how Maggi performs while he’s up here or even if he gets game action, for that matter, the story itself is a feel-good one.

Maggi’s parents Craig and Sarah along with his brother Beau will make the lengthy trip from Arizona to be at PNC Park.

There’s that famous line from the movie “Moneyball” where Brad Pitt, portraying Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane says, “How can you not be romantic about baseball?” It’s true, how can you not?

“Crazy things happen in this game. I’m very thankful that I’m here and I get to enjoy this. I’m excited for the day,” Maggi said.