Valdez’s Power Surge Lights Up Pirates | Pittsburgh Pirates News

Pirates rookie Esmerlyn Valdez is exploding onto the scene with jaw-dropping power, launching a 461-foot homer — one of the longest ever at PNC Park — in a win over the Reds, joining a three-game homer streak that’s rare for a rookie since 2019. His teammate Ryan O’Hearn calls him “fun to watch,” and Valdez credits his confidence to hard work and consistent playing time. With key regulars sidelined, Valdez is thriving, leading the league in slugging among qualified hitters and showing he’s more than just a power threat — he also had a triple shy of the cycle, a walk, and two RBIs in that same game, marking his first career three-hit game. Valdez is proving he belongs, staying focused and delivering every day — a breakout star to watch as the season unfolds. Support the show:Get a discount at https://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/c57bf3adba9d10f0