Pirates’ Esmerlyn Valdez Joins Andrew McCutchen in Pittsburgh’s History Books with Stellar Rookie Stats originally appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh.
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The Pirates can’t be sure that Esmerlyn Valdez is going to keep this up. But right now, Valdez has started his MLB career in style, and it’s a really exciting time to be a Pirates fan.
They’d be an improved team this season even without the scorching hot rookie, but he’s helping matters, for sure.
It has actually been historic. Valdez is the first Pirates rookie since Andrew McCutchen to have at least 10 extra-base hits and 15 RBIs in his first 20 career games.
That’s an official stat from MLB:
Esmerlyn Valdez is the first @Pirates rookie since Andrew McCutchen with 10+ extra-base hits and 15+ RBI within their first 20 career games. pic.twitter.com/IfaAV0hwgf
— MLB Stats (@MLBStats) July 3, 2026
MORE:Pirates legend Andrew McCutchen signs with new MLB team
Valdez is a 22-year-old outfielder from the Dominican Republic. So far, he is 21-for-62 in the major leagues (.339 average). Valdez has five doubles, one triple, six home runs and 16 RBIs. His OPS so far is a whopping 1.133.
Valdez has played 20 games, so pitchers haven’t been able to make full adjustments to his weaknesses yet. He hasn’t shown many issues so far, although he has struck out 22 times in 62 at-bats, which is less than ideal.
Still, the Pirates will take this. Valdez has provided an incredible spark.
McCutchen ended up winning an NL MVP in Pittsburgh. The Pirates would gladly take a career like that from Valdez, but it’s not worth jumping ahead too far. Enjoy this hot streak while it lasts.
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