Position: RHP
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 225 lbs
Bats/Throws: R/R
Born: 06/6/2002
College: Florida Southwestern State College (JC)
How Acquired: Drafted 19th round, 557th Overall, 2023
Bonus: $172,500
40-man Roster: No
Rule 5 Eligible: 2026
Minor League Free Agency: 2028
Options Left: 3
Overview
Kennedy started off his collegiate career at the University of Pittsburgh, where he had a 10.38 ERA in ten games, three starts. Walks were the problem, specifically 21 in 13 innings. The next year Kennedy went to junior college in Florida and had a 4.99 ERA over 14 games, 13 starts. He had a 1.52 WHIP and 59 strikeouts in 48.2 IP. He averages about 96 mph with his fastball, and also throws a curve with sharp, late break that produces a lot of swings and misses when he can get it in the vicinity of the plate. The Pirates signed him for a slightly over slot $172,500.
2023-24
The Pirates sent Kennedy to the FCL after he signed. He got into five games but only lasted three total innings because he couldn’t throw strikes. He walked nine and allowed five hits. In 2024, the team tried him at Bradenton and the control problems continued. In 22 innings he struck out 31, but he walked 43, hit nine and threw 13 wild pitches.
Stats
Transactions
July 11, 2023: Drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 19th round, 557th overall pick; signed on July 20.