In a stunning yet well-earned nod to his breakout performance, Clemson University’s standout outfielder Jackson Monroe has been selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the first round of the 2025 MLB Mock Draft. The Pirates, holding the 9th overall pick this year, made a bold statement by going after one of college baseball’s most electric players. Monroe’s selection is seen by many analysts as a perfect fit for a Pittsburgh organization looking to build its future around high-upside, toolsy position players.
A Meteoric Rise at Clemson
Jackson Monroe’s journey to first-round stardom has been anything but ordinary. A native of Alpharetta, Georgia, Monroe came to Clemson as a relatively unheralded recruit. But from the moment he stepped onto the diamond in a Tigers uniform, he began turning heads. Now a junior, Monroe has blossomed into one of the most feared hitters in the ACC.
In the 2025 season, Monroe is slashing an eye-popping .367/.442/.682 with 19 home runs, 62 RBIs, and 23 stolen bases through mid-April. His blend of power, speed, and plate discipline has scouts buzzing. Even more impressive is his ability to play all three outfield positions, with above-average arm strength and route-running that suggests he could stick in center field long-term.
“He’s got that five-tool makeup,” said Clemson head coach Erik Bakich. “But what really sets Jackson apart is how he carries himself. He works like a walk-on and plays like a star. He’s earned everything coming his way.”
Pirates Add a Dynamic Piece
For the Pirates, this selection signals a continuation of their commitment to drafting high-ceiling athletes. In recent years, Pittsburgh has added young studs like Termarr Johnson, Paul Skenes, and Henry Davis through the draft. Adding Monroe to that mix gives them another elite talent with potential to make a real impact at the major league level within a few years.
The Pirates’ front office, led by GM Ben Cherington, has emphasized player development as the key to building a sustainable contender. Monroe’s makeup—both on and off the field—aligns with that vision. He’s already demonstrated an advanced approach at the plate, and his speed adds a dynamic threat the Pirates’ lineup has been sorely missing.
“Monroe has the tools and the temperament to be a franchise cornerstone,” said one anonymous NL scout. “He’s the kind of player you can dream on—30/30 potential, elite athlete, and a leader.”
Comparison to MLB Stars
Monroe’s skillset has drawn comparisons to several MLB stars. Scouts have likened his game to that of a young Andrew McCutchen, ironically one of Pittsburgh’s most beloved players of the past two decades. Like McCutchen, Monroe brings a strong mix of bat speed, base-running instincts, and charisma.
Others see shades of Cedric Mullins in his game, pointing to Monroe’s left-handed power, speed, and sneaky pop against both lefties and righties. If he continues to refine his hit tool and plate discipline, Monroe could develop into a perennial All-Star.
Draft Implications for Clemson
While Monroe’s selection is a massive win for Clemson’s program, it also highlights the Tigers’ return to national relevance. Under Coach Bakich, Clemson has been developing more pro-ready talent, and Monroe is the poster child for that success.
Scouts have noted that Clemson’s developmental program has improved markedly in the past three seasons. Their emphasis on analytics, strength training, and situational hitting has turned Clemson into a hotbed for scouts looking for big-league talent.
Monroe’s rise might also inspire more top-tier high school recruits to consider Clemson as a launching pad to the majors, giving the program even more national clout.
What Comes Next?
Though this is only a mock draft, Monroe’s stock has been climbing steadily, and most analysts now have him as a lock for the top 10—if not top 5—by the time the actual draft rolls around in July.
For now, he’s focused on helping Clemson make a deep run into the College World Series. “I’m honored to be recognized like this,” Monroe said after hearing about his projected selection. “But I’m just trying to help my team win. We’ve got something special going on here.”
Pirates fans, meanwhile, are already dreaming about what a future outfield could look like with Monroe patrolling center and anchoring the lineup. With their farm system already ranked among the top 5 in baseball, adding a player of Monroe’s caliber only strengthens the rebuild that’s been taking shape for the past several seasons.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 MLB Draft class is rich with talent, but few players have the upside and polish of Jackson Monroe. His selection by the Pirates in this mock draft isn’t just about stats—it’s about fit, culture, and long-term vision. If Pittsburgh pulls the trigger come draft night, it might just be the move that helps usher in a new era of Pirates baseball.
Let me know if you’d like to tweak the player’s name, position, or school—this version is fictionalized but based on real draft structures. If you have a specific Clemson player in mind, I can update it accordingly!
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