Pirates Top 30 Prospects No. 23: Josh Hartle Tries to Get On Track

This is one in a series of stories breaking down PBN’s Top 30 Pittsburgh Pirates prospects.

Once considered a likely first round pick, the Pirates snagged Josh Hartle in the third round out of Wake Forest in 2024 after a rocky junior season.

Hartle, a 6-foot-5, 210 pound left-handed pitcher, entered the Demon Deacons’ 2024 season as their Friday starter after posting a 2.81 ERA as a sophomore on a team that made the College World Series. Wake Forest began last season as the No. 1 team in the nation, but both they and Hartle struggled to build on that reputation.

Hartle put together a 5.79 ERA with 81 strikeouts in 74.2 innings, losing his hold atop the rotation as conference play began. Wake Forest qualified for the NCAA Tournament, but he didn’t make an appearance in either of the games they played.

That’s how Hartle ended up falling to the third round, where general manager Ben Cherington snapped him up with the 83rd pick. It’s a recurring theme for this Pirates’ draft class: they also bought low on UC Santa Barbara pitcher Matt Ager.

Hartle relies on a low 90s fastball and high 80s cutter, also mixing in a slider (his best offering) and a changeup. Prior to 2024, Hartle received rave reviews for his command: it still received a 55 grade on MLB’s 20-80 scouting scale, but his control suffered last season.

Hartle made one appearance for the Bradenton Marauders upon signing with Pittsburgh, roughed up for four runs (three earned) in 1.2 innings. Despite the rough season, the big lefty has plenty of promise and the Pirates have a strong track record developing pitchers in recent years. Whether they keep him in the bullpen or prep him for a rotation spot, Hartle is a name to watch.