Former Clemson QB Bubba Chandler Gets MLB Shot in Pirates Bullpen

The 22-year-old right-hander, who once committed to Clemson football as a quarterback, will reportedly pitch out of the bullpen initially as the Pirates ease him into the big leagues.

Chandler has been one of the most talked-about arms in the minors since his breakout 2024 season, when he posted a 3.08 ERA across two levels and piled up 148 strikeouts in 119 2/3 innings. That dominance vaulted him to No. 7 overall on Baseball America’s prospect rankings entering 2025.

This year at Triple-A Indianapolis, his ERA ticked up to 4.05 over 100 innings, but he still struck out 121 batters, flashing the electric stuff that has scouts projecting him as a future front-line starter.

For now, Pittsburgh plans to use Chandler as a bulk reliever, but the organization remains confident in his long-term future at the top of the rotation. In fact, the Pirates envision him one day joining forces with 2023 No. 1 pick Paul Skenes to form one of the most exciting young duos in baseball.

From Clemson Commit to MLB’s Top Prospect

Chandler’s journey to Pittsburgh is as unique as his skill set. A standout quarterback and shortstop at North Oconee High School in Georgia, Chandler originally committed to play baseball at Georgia before flipping to Clemson on a football scholarship in 2020.

A four-star QB recruit, he was ranked among the nation’s top pro-style passers. But when the Pirates selected him in the third round of the 2021 MLB Draft and offered $3 million — far above slot value — Chandler chose the diamond over the gridiron.

Early in his pro career, Chandler dabbled as a two-way player before fully committing to pitching in 2023. After early struggles, he found his rhythm post-All-Star break, dominating at High-A and Double-A. That late surge carried into 2024, where he firmly established himself as one of baseball’s elite young arms.

Now, he finally gets his shot with Pittsburgh. At 53-74, the Pirates are looking toward the future, and Chandler represents a major piece of it. While his debut role will be in relief, it may not be long before he’s slotted into the rotation — and beginning the partnership with Skenes that fans have been dreaming about.