The Pittsburgh Pirates may have Paul Skenes in their ranks, but a young pitcher with Mexican roots has recently stolen the spotlight on the mound after firing 102.4 mph fastballs. We’re talking about Seth Hernandez, who didn’t even pick up a baseball until his junior year of high school-and now he’s emerging as one of the top MLB prospects to watch.
Seth Hernandez shocks in his debut
Hernandez made his start at LECOM Park during the Pirates’ 8-7 Spring Breakout victory over the Detroit Tigers. It marked his first experience pitching in front of a crowd since being selected sixth overall in the MLB Draft 2025.
His very first pitch was a blazing 102.4 mph fastball that crossed the plate like a meteor. The stadium held its breath. Although the at-bat ended in a walk, five of his six pitches to the batter exceeded 100 mph. It wasn’t flawless, but it made one thing crystal clear: his talent is extraordinary.
Many Pittsburgh fans might not have had him on their radar yet, but that’s about to change. At just 19 years old, Hernandez is poised to become one of the highest-upside pitching prospects in the minors.
The Pirates are on an exceptional run in the draft. Paul Skenes established himself as the best pick of 2023, winning Rookie of the Year and later the Cy Young Award. Konnor Griffin could be the gem of 2024. Now, Seth Hernandez looks set to continue that elite MLB talent pipeline.
Two years ago, Skenes shone in the Spring Breakout 2024. In 2025, Bubba Chandler took center stage. Hernandez feels honored to carry on that tradition, while keeping his feet firmly on the ground.
“Being on a list with those guys is very special. I want to get to Pittsburgh as soon as possible to share the team with them. Our pitching development system is incredible. The Pirates know how to develop the best,” he said with a mix of ambition and humility.
In his debut, Hernandez threw 11 of his first 21 pitches over 100 mph, plus three more at 99 mph. An explosive calling card. Max Clark, one of Detroit’s top prospects, was the first to face him and didn’t hide his reaction.
Following in the footsteps of Paul Skenes, Seth Hernandez appears to have everything it takes to become the next MLB star pitcher.
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