Social media reacts to LSU star Derek Curiel being picked by Pirates

Jul 12, 2026 - 14:15

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Derek Curiel is a top-five draft pick. The Pittsburgh Pirates selected the former LSU Baseball star at No. 5 overall in the 2026 MLB Draft on Saturday. He is the fourth former Tiger taken in the top five since 2023, joining Paul Skenes, Dylan Crews and Kade Anderson.

Several mock drafts leading up to the draft had Curiel going in the teens and high twenties. He was the No. 12 prospect on the MLB's prospect rankings for the 2026 draft class, but his top five selection marks a major vote of confidence by the Pirates' front office.

Two years at LSU developed Curiel into one of the most versatile prospects in the draft class. He started in left and right field and center field, flashing the leather and showing his ability to cover ground quickly. He also maintained a spot in the top half of the batting order, holding the leadoff spot for much of his freshman year.

As a true freshman, Curiel helped the Tigers win their second national title in three years. He earned several All-American accolades and enjoyed increased success at the plate in 2026. He finished his career at LSU batting .349 with a .975 OPS, 171 hits, 131 runs, and 101 RBI over two seasons.

How did social media react to Curiel's selection?

The first surprise of the 2026 draft with Derek Curiel going No. 5 overall to the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Curiel's showed out on the highest stage of college baseball for LSU, and is a safe floor bat for the Pirates here.

(per @JoeDoyleMiLB) pic.twitter.com/NEy5LkQKQO
— Tobey Schulman (@tschulmanreport) July 11, 2026

2026 #MLBDraft
Pick: 5
Team: Pittsburgh Pirates
Player: Derek Curiel (OF)
From: LSU

One of the best pure hitters in the class with an above-average or better blend of contact, approach, and speed. Probably more of a 10-15 HR bat, though.#LetsGoBucs
— Eric Cross (@EricCrossMLB) July 11, 2026

1.5 Pirates - Derek Curiel

The first real surprise of the first round. Curiel is a blue chip guy. He makes tons of contact and hit the ball harder this year. Launch angle is an issue. Passive approach. Improved in CF. Would assume he’s taking a discount here.

Grade: C+
— Nae 🧬 (@NaeNaeTakes) July 11, 2026

Derek Curiel, from LSU, goes 5 to @Pirates. Pirates clearly see him as an impact bat with ceiling. #MLBdraft
— Jeremy Booth (@_JeremyBooth) July 11, 2026

The Pirates are taking Derek Curiel at No. 5.

One of the best hit tools in the draft. Very strong defense in center.

PROFILE👇pic.twitter.com/odMTLDRnSa
— Over-Slot Baseball (@OverSlot_) July 11, 2026

Several MLB analysts praised Curiel's abilities in the outfield and at the plate. Some seemed surprised at the pick by the Pirates and offered commentary about their rationale behind the pick.

Congrats to @DerekCuriel @LSUbaseball 1st rd. 5th overall to the @Pirates this kid is a winner! #4everlsu #ThePowerHouse pic.twitter.com/B6xJ4X0qhV
— Ben McDonald (@realbenmcdonald) July 11, 2026

DO IT @DerekCuriel!!!! https://t.co/DVzgU3RAWO
— Josh Jordan (@CoachJordan2) July 11, 2026

One of Curiel's former LSU teammates, Eddie Yamin, displayed his excitement over the top five selection. LSU assistant coach and recruiting coordinator Josh Jordan did the same for his former player.