The Pittsburgh Pirates have long been known for their knack for developing young talent, but one name that continues to fly under the radar is Owen Kellington. While many eyes have been glued to high-profile prospects, Kellington has quietly made significant strides, positioning himself as a potential game-changer for the Pirates’ rotation in 2025. Despite his low-key profile, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to ignore his unique potential, making his return to the mound in 2025 one of the most intriguing storylines in baseball.
The Road Less Traveled: Kellington’s Development
Selected in the 4th round of the 2021 MLB Draft, Kellington wasn’t given the superstar treatment that typically accompanies top prospects. Coming out of a small high school in Vermont, the right-hander faced an uphill battle from the start. Scouts questioned his competition level and doubted whether he had the stuff to succeed in the pros. Yet, year after year, Kellington has proven doubters wrong. His work ethic, combined with his developing arsenal, has him primed for a big leap.
What’s most striking about Kellington is his command. While some young pitchers rely on raw velocity, Kellington has fine-tuned his pitch mix, utilizing a deceptive fastball and a lethal curveball to keep hitters guessing. His control and pitch location have steadily improved, making him a more complete pitcher than many of his peers who are still dependent on overpowering hitters.
The Forgotten Prospect: Why Is Kellington Underrated?
The Pirates’ farm system is stacked with talent, and this is likely part of why Kellington remains overlooked. Names like Quinn Priester and Nick Gonzales have dominated headlines, while Kellington has flown under the radar. His rise through the minors has been steady but unspectacular, which, ironically, may work in his favor. He hasn’t faced the crushing expectations or media spotlight that many high-profile prospects have, allowing him to develop at his own pace.
Some analysts have suggested that Kellington’s underrated status is actually a result of the Pirates’ own internal mismanagement of talent, a controversial stance that could have merit. Critics argue that the organization has failed to properly promote and nurture their lower-profile prospects, leading to a lack of exposure for players like Kellington. This begs the question: Could Kellington have already made an impact in the majors if he had been given more attention by the Pirates’ coaching staff?
What to Expect from Kellington in 2025
Kellington’s return in 2025 will be a defining moment for both his career and the Pirates’ future. After recovering from a shoulder injury that sidelined him for much of 2023 and 2024, Kellington is expected to come back stronger than ever. His rehab reports have been promising, and many within the organization believe that his work ethic will allow him to overcome any lingering doubts about his durability.
Fans can expect Kellington to bring a composed and polished presence to the Pirates’ rotation. With his improving velocity and ability to mix pitches effectively, he could provide a much-needed spark for a Pirates team that has been languishing in mediocrity for years. His ability to throw strikes and avoid walks makes him a perfect fit for a team looking to reduce free passes and prevent big innings.
Controversy: Is Kellington the Future Ace?
Here’s where things get controversial. Some within the Pirates’ community are already whispering that Kellington could eventually emerge as the ace of the staff. While names like Mitch Keller and Priester may have more hype surrounding them, Kellington’s poise and ability to pitch deep into games could set him apart.
However, not everyone is convinced. Critics point to his limited experience and past injury as reasons to temper expectations. Additionally, the Pirates’ history of mishandling young pitchers has some fans concerned that Kellington could end up being the next underachieving talent lost in Pittsburgh’s shuffle of prospects.
Conclusion: The Uncertain Future
As Kellington makes his return in 2025, the spotlight will finally be on him, whether he wants it or not. Will he become the unsung hero that Pirates fans have been waiting for, or will the franchise’s history of mediocrity swallow up another promising arm? One thing is certain—Kellington’s comeback has the potential to either cement his place as one of baseball’s most underrated stars or fuel ongoing debates about the Pirates’ ability to develop their prospects.
For now, Owen Kellington remains one of baseball’s best-kept secrets. But come 2025, the secret may finally be out.