‘Whirlwind’ Two-Week Stretch Leads Pirates’ Jack Brannigan to MLB Debut
Jack Brannigan got to experience a big-league clubhouse and watch from the dugout when the Pirates called him up from Double-A Altoona for a game against the Mariners on June 25, but he did not get into the game.
Pittsburgh optioned Brannigan back to Altoona the following day, but an injury to Konnor Griffin forced the Pirates to recall the University of Notre Dame product once more on Tuesday. This time, Brannigan debuted.
After the Pirates built a big lead against the Braves on Tuesday night thanks to a historic three-homer game from Ryan O’Hearn, Brannigan pinch-hit for Bryan Reynolds in the seventh inning of the blowout win.
He had a feeling it was coming.
“I kind of thought that once we got the big lead on all Ryan’s homers I was like, ‘Alright, this is probably a good opportunity for me to get in there,’” Brannigan explained. “I was ready, but once they told me I was batting for Reynolds, I think my heart was beating a thousand miles a minute. I was just so excited to get up there.”
Brannigan faced Braves relief pitcher Connor Thomas and struck out after whiffing on three pitches.
“Did not get cheated on any of my swings,” he chuckled. “It would’ve been great to put one in play, but I was just so juiced my eyes just got way too big up there.”
Brannigan remained in the game at third base and got his first assist on a groundout that retired Braves shortstop Jim Jarvis, a player he once shared a field with.
Brannigan again sensed something was coming.
“I actually played with him in college summer ball.” he explained. “As soon as he came up I was like, ‘I feel like this one’s coming to me.’ I just had a feeling. I was just happy I did something positive to end the day.”
It was a hectic two-week stretch that led Brannigan to becoming the sixth player for the Pirates to make his MLB debut this season.
After spending a day in Pittsburgh with the big-league team before reporting back to Altoona the following day, the Pirates promoted Brannigan to Triple-A Indianapolis on the last day of June. He totaled six games there before his services were needed with the big-league club.
“It’s been a whirlwind for sure,” said Brannigan. “I think the last two weeks I’ve been just about everywhere. It’s been a lot of fun. It’s a really cool opportunity to debut. It’s been a whirlwind but it’s been a blast all the way.”
Brannigan’s season got off to a delayed start after breaking his nose in spring training. Because of his rehab process, he’s spent time this season at every affiliate from the Florida Coast League to the big leagues.
After only 33 games with Altoona this year and a handful of games with Indianapolis, it was a quick rise to the big leagues for Brannigan, who was added to the team’s 40-man roster this offseason.
While his opportunity with the Pirates came admittedly a little bit sooner than he was expecting, Brannigan wants to do his part to help the team win games.
“Being around this group of guys is great,” he said. “They’ve had a lot of success early on. Just kind of hoping to help them out any way I can and kind of keep the success rolling and hopefully continue to make a push for the playoffs. Just kind of whatever role they need me in. Hopefully do well and enjoy the time I get.”
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