Pirates’ Rookie Magician Ignites League | Pittsburgh Pirates News

Esmerlyn Valdez, the 22-year-old “Magician” of the Pittsburgh Pirates, is rewriting rookie records with a .309 average, monster power, and clutch hits that rival legends. Already matching Yordan Alvarez’s elite early-season stats and becoming the first Pirates rookie since Andrew McCutchen to hit 10+ extra-base hits and 15+ RBIs in his first 20 games, Valdez stunned everyone on July 11 with four go-ahead hits — including three homers and a grand slam — in one game. Manager Don Kelly raves about his professional approach and clutch mentality, especially as the team deals with injuries. While pitchers will eventually adjust, Valdez’s talent and poise suggest he’s built for a long, dominant run with the Pirates. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/5ddcb1f209dd5455