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The Pirates made a major splash at the top of the 2021 MLB Draft.
In GM Ben Cherington’s first draft with the Pirates, he selected Louisville catcher Henry Davis with the first overall pick in the draft.
After months of speculation with Vanderbilt pitchers Jack Leiter and Kumar Rocker and with recent speculation of high school shortstops Marcelo Mayer and Jordan Lawlar, the Pirates opted for a backstop with the first overall pick.
Davis is the third catcher to be taken first overall in the last 20 years, joining Adley Rutschman, who kicked off the draft in 2019 with the Orioles, and former MVP Joe Mauer, who was the first selection for the Twins back in 2001.
Davis, 21, posted a .370 average in his final season with Louisville, winning the ACC batting title. He also mashed 15 homers this past season, which is a huge jump from the three hit in a COVID-shortened 2020 campaign.
Davis has defensive-mindedness in his game on top of his ability to be a difficult out in the batter’s box.
Welcome to Pittsburgh, Henry Davis!