For Rising Pirates OF Edward Florentino, Character & Talent Go Hand In Hand

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Edward Florentino (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Most freshly-signed prospects spend years grinding in the minors before they get even a glimpse of a major league ballpark—let alone one with actual fans in the seats. But for Edward Florentino, that moment came much sooner than expected.

In September 2024, the 18-year-old wasn’t at the ballpark to play, but to be recognized. Standing on the field at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Florentino accepted the Pirates Community Commitment Award as the Dominican Summer League honoree—a rare spotlight for someone so early in their journey. The moment was even more special considering it took place on MLB’s annual Roberto Clemente Day, which honors the Puerto Rican trailblazer by recognizing players involved in community work.

Florentino, who’s since become a Top 100 Prospect and a rising figure in the Pirates’ system, was admittedly stunned when he found out he’d been selected. Recognition was never the goal. In fact, he didn’t even know the award existed. 

He gave back, not because of some award, but because it was what his family had always taught him to do.

“It’s about doing the right thing when no one is looking,” Florentino told Baseball America in Spanish. “If you’re only focused on showing off when people are around, it isn’t a true reflection of who you are. I always strive to make sure that I’m the best version of myself, no matter who is around.”

The Pirates Community Commitment Award is given annually to one player from each level of the organization who exemplifies outstanding community involvement. For players in the DSL, where resources and exposure are more limited, it means more. It signals that a young player not only stands out on the field but is also making a real difference off it—a message that resonates deeply throughout the organization.

From the moment he joined the Pirates, the Dominican outfielder has made a point to stay active in the community by regularly participating in outreach efforts like trash cleanups, youth baseball camps and any initiative where he could lend a hand. Whether it was picking up a rake or sharing a few swings with local kids, Florentino approached every opportunity with humility and enthusiasm. Along the way, he quickly earned the respect of teammates, staff and the community alike.

Florentino credits his parents—especially his mother—for instilling the values of humility and service at a young age. Growing up in the Dominican Republic, he saw firsthand how small acts of kindness could have a big impact. Whether it was helping neighbors, sharing meals or cleaning up after community events, the idea of doing good without expecting anything in return was a core tenet of his upbringing.

For Florentino, giving back has only deepened his love for the game. In the early stages of a professional career in which players are practically married to the sport, it’s easy to get consumed by the daily grind. There’s little time to unwind, and many young prospects push themselves to the brink. 

Those moments away from the field, spent serving others, have brought balance and perspective that help Florentino enjoy the game even more.

“We tend to forget about the mental side of the game, but it’s one of the most important aspects,” Florentino said. “I feel like the game is 80% mental. And when you get opportunities to clear your mind and shift it somewhere else, it helps you appreciate the game more.”

So far, the results are showing. While his community work speaks volumes about his character, Florentino’s play on the field is starting to speak just as loudly.

Once considered a mid-tier name in the Pirates’ farm system, Florentino entered the season ranked No. 24 among the organization’s prospects. Fast forward a few months, and he’s become one of the game’s biggest prospect risers.

Edward Florentino has homered in back-to-back games 👀

He’s 18 years old hitting .284/.407/.558 with six homers in 27 games in Low-A 😳

(🎥 @YoungBucsPIT)pic.twitter.com/yvHui3bAWB

— Baseball America (@BaseballAmerica) July 27, 2025

Because of his standout performance in Low-A Bradenton, where he’s impressed scouts with his bat speed, defensive instincts and overall maturity, Florentino now sits at No. 4 in the Pirates’ rankings and has broken into Baseball America’s Top 100 at No. 95.

Florentino made quick work of the Florida Complex League, posting a 1.085 OPS with six home runs in just 29 games before earning a promotion to Low-A. Since the move, he’s continued to produce at a high level, slashing .262/.380/.503 with 10 homers and 36 RBIs.

Listed at 6-foot-4, 200 pounds, Florentino already shows plus raw power and consistently generates quality ball flight off the bat. For a teenager, his feel for the game is advanced, and his quick hands produce impressive bat speed—a tool that’s expected to become even more explosive as he continues to add strength and fill out his frame.

“It’s a result of hard work, but also sacrifice,” Florentino said. “It’s not just getting better at the game, but also having to leave your family behind to push for this dream. It’s not easy being away for 8-9 months, but it’s a risk we take to help them out.”

For now, Florentino remains focused on the day-to-day process of staying grounded, improving his craft and continuing to give back whenever he can. But it’s clear he’s already turning heads for more than just his numbers.

A teenager with the tools to dream big and the values to stay rooted, he’s shown off a rare blend that’s quickly making him one of the most compelling young talents in the Pirates’ system. Whether it’s in the batter’s box or out in the community, Florentino is proving he belongs.