The Pirates have plenty of multi-talented athletes in their system, and the versatility of Garret Forrester earned him the honor of being a third round pick in 2023.
On this edition of the Pirates’ prospect update series, we take a look infielder Garret Forrester out of Oregon State, as he looks to round out his game at multiple positions with the Bradenton Marauders.
The son of former Minor League infielder Gary Forrester, Garret was touted as a top prospect following three solid years as a starter in college. His time spent as an OSU Beaver was productive to say the least, leaving the program with more walks than strikeouts as a highly adept right-handed hitter. Forrester had a career average of .360 with a .970 OPS, compiling 26 homers and 144 RBIs.
Drafted in the third round by the Pirates in 2023, the top college prospect who had played almost exclusively at first base at Oregon State has been viewed by the organization as a more versatile defender. His Minor League debut saw him start on the hot corner, where his above average arm was on full display, though the footwork showed he was out of place at third. The versatile athlete was also at the draft combine working behind the plate at catcher, with the team stating they’ve been pleased with his production at that position.
Garret Forrester with his first pro hit. EV over 100mph
Was the Pirates 3rd round pick this past draft.
— Christian✞ (@CWolfPGH) August 1, 2023
So far this season with Bradenton, Forrester’s numbers have not necessarily jumped off the page, but an impressive 11 bases on balls with .356 OBP is at least a sign of things to come. The above average ability at the plate that was displayed at the collegian level is still a work in progress in the professional ranks, but the team like what he can do at the plate, as well as the multiple positions he can play defensively being a plus.
22-year old Garret Forrester is currently the 19th ranked Pirates prospect, with a big league eta of 2026.