Esmerlyn Valdez makes Pirates history with historic start to career

Esmerlyn Valdez has achieved a notable milestone in his early career with the Pittsburgh Pirates. The 22-year-old outfielder is the first Pirates rookie since Andrew McCutchen to record at least 10 extra-base hits and 15 RBI in his first 20 games. Valdez, who hails from the Dominican Republic, boasts a.316 batting average and an OPS of 1.112. He has recorded four doubles, one triple, six home runs, and 15 RBI, all while striking out 21 times in 57 at-bats. While his performance is generating excitement among Pirates fans, the early stage of his career means pitchers have yet to fully adjust to his skills.

• 5:51 PMYahoo Sports — Pirates' Esmerlyn Valdez makes Pittsburgh baseball history not done since Andrew McCutchen