Pirates Draft Signings: Prep Shortstop Eddie Rynders

Fourth-round pick Eddie Rynders is the latest draft selection to sign with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Pirates selected Rynders, a shortstop, from Wisconsin Lutheran High School with the 112th pick of the 2024 draft.

The 18-year-old Rynders was a first-team all-state selection as a senior. MLB Pipeline had Rynders rated as their 229th-best prospect.

Rynders has a projectable frame, already standing 6-foot-2 and 195 pounds. Scouts believe that there is power potential as he continues to mature and begin his professional career with the Pirates.

“Eddie’s a player that we’ve scouted for a while now,” amateur scouting director Justin Horowitz said after the draft. “Area scout Anthony Wycklendt has done a great job of getting to know Eddie and his family. A left-handed hitter, projectable left-handed hitter. Physical frame, he’s gonna add some strength. He’s got some sneaky power. He’s got a good swing.”

Defensively, Rynders was announced as a shortstop but some scouts believe he will have to shift to third base, citing a lack of quickness.

Still, the Pirates will give him an opportunity to play short in their minor-league system.

“We’re gonna give him all the chance in the world to stick there long-term,” said Horowitz. “I’m sure he will play at other positions to gain some versatility, build some athleticism and his repertoire of skill sets. But underlying underneath the surface, for sure has some talent to stick at short long-term.”

On Tuesday, the Pirates signed left-handed pitcher Josh Hartle, who they took in the third round.