Baseball is a humbling game, and for Termarr Johnson, the Pirates’ No. 3 prospect, it’s been a journey of growth since being drafted fourth overall in 2022. Despite the challenges, his confidence remains unshaken.
“I’m just trying to stay in the best position possible, because I know I’m the best hitter in the world,” Johnson, ranked 75th in MLB’s top prospects, said after going 2-for-4 with a home run in his Arizona Fall League (AFL) debut for the Scottsdale Scorpions.
Johnson has made strides, but he recognizes there’s still work ahead. While he reached Double-A at just 20, his Minor League stats across 252 games show a .239/.390/.406 line. He’s demonstrated strong plate discipline with an 18.6% walk rate, though he admits his strikeout rate (23.6%) is higher than he’d like.
“I learned a lot this season,” Johnson reflected on 2024. “I’m happy with what I’ve achieved, but I always want more. Even if I were batting .400, I’d still want to do better. I’m proud of what I contributed and helped my team win games, but there’s more I want to accomplish.”
Johnson is eager to keep improving and sees the Fall League as a key part of his development. In 2024, he made progress, lowering his strikeout rate to 21.3%, but he’s far from satisfied. He believes his time with the Scorpions will provide valuable experience for his future.
“I want to learn more about myself to become the best big leaguer I can be,” Johnson said. “Every time I’m on the field, I want to be the best player out there. Learning from teammates, coaches, and this experience will help me get there.”
A unique element of Johnson’s journey is his brother’s music. His brother, Terrenz Johnson, known as “Levels,” has composed music for his walk-up songs. Though the AFL doesn’t typically feature walk-up music, Johnson is excited to potentially showcase his brother’s tunes.
“If they let us have walk-up songs here, I’d debut a few tracks,” Johnson said. “My brother has plenty of songs ready for me, and I’m excited about that.”
**Other Pirates Hitters in the Fall League**
*Kervin Pichardo, INF:* Originally signed by the Phillies in 2019, Pichardo has bounced around teams, landing with the Pirates in April 2023 in exchange for lefty Jackson Wolf. In Double-A Altoona, Pichardo displayed an impressive combination of swing decisions and athleticism, excelling at multiple infield positions.
*Geovanny Planchart, C:* Planchart joined the Pirates in 2019 for $41,000 and has since built a reputation as a defensive standout. Though he’s still developing offensively, he reached Double-A before turning 23 this season.
*Sammy Siani, OF:* Drafted 37th overall in 2019, Siani, the younger brother of Cardinals outfielder Michael Siani, struggled early in his career. However, adjustments to his swing led to a breakout year at High-A Greensboro, earning him a promotion to Double-A. He aims to carry this momentum into the AFL, showcasing his speed and defense.
**Pirates Pitchers in the Fall League**
*Khristian Curtis, RHP (No. 27):* Injuries have hindered Curtis at both the college and pro levels, but the Pirates’ 12th-round pick in 2023 has shown promise when healthy. His fastball, averaging 95.4 mph, has improved significantly, and he’s refining his secondary pitches. More consistent mound time will be key to his development.
*Derek Diamond, RHP:* Drafted in the sixth round in 2022, Diamond has demonstrated excellent control, walking just 2.1 batters per nine innings throughout his career. In 2024, he continued to refine his pitching repertoire, earning praise for his competitive mindset.
*Valentin Linarez, RHP:* Signed in 2018, Linarez transitioned to a bullpen role in 2023 and found success with a dominant strikeout rate at High-A Greensboro. His imposing 6-foot-5 frame and fastball-slider combination make him a potential asset for the Pirates’ bullpen.
*Eddy Yean, RHP:* Yean’s 2024 improvements could see him pitching in the Pirates’ bullpen as early as 2025. His upper-90s sinker and devastating slider were more effective this year thanks to improved control, making him an exciting prospect for the future.
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