Pirates Select LHP Michael Kennedy In Fourth Round Of MLB Draft

The Pirates began day two of the MLB Draft by selecting two-way player Jack Brannigan from the University of Notre Dame in the third round. General Manager Ben Cherington was on the clock again in round four and the Pirates selected prep left-hander Michael Kennedy with the 110th pick. Pick 110 comes with a slot value of $554,600.

Kennedy is rated as MLB Pipeline’s 89th best prospect in this year’s draft. Kennedy is young as he doesn’t turn 18 until November, so the Pirates are getting one of the youngest players available this year. The 6-foot-1 lefty is from New York and is committed to play college ball at LSU.

He features a three-pitch mix, led by an above-average fastball and slide, which both are rated as a 55-grade on the 20-80 scouting scale. Kennedy also features a pretty good changeup and has strong control, especially for his age.

HIs fastball relies on more movement than velocity, as he only sits in the low-90s but gets good run on the pitch. His slider is a solid swing-and-miss pitch. His changeup is deceptive and could become another above-average offering for the southpaw as he continues to develop.

For his age, Kenendy is a polished prospect and scouts believe he will continue to get better and stronger as he continues to mature.

After relatively safe picks to begin the draft in terms of signability, it seems as though the Pirates will have to go over-slot here to pry Kennedy away from Baton Rouge, but they must feel confident they can get a deal done.

The Pirates selection of Kennedy pairs him third-round selection Brannigan to start day two of the draft as well as the day one selections — Termarr Johnson, Thomas Harrington and Hunter Barco. 

Q+A with Michael Kennedy! Watch to learn more about the draft prospect. Make sure to tune in and see where Michael goes! pic.twitter.com/uf6o2RpJuF

— Milb Central (@milb_central) July 17, 2022