Scouting Report

Scouting grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 50 | Run: 50 | Arm: 55 | Field: 50 | Overall: 45

At the start of the 2025 international signing period, the Dodgers’ gain turned out to also be the Pirates’ gain. When Los Angeles committed to signing Roki Sasaki, they could no longer also sign Morel. The Pirates were able to jump in and ink the infielder for $1.8 million, then watched him make a very solid debut in the Dominican Summer League, posting a .287/.425/.414 line to go along with 26 steals.

Morel oozes athleticism and projection from his lean 6-foot-4 frame that he’s just starting to fill out. The teenager is a left-handed hitter who is already showing a solid approach. He’s willing to work counts, wait out at-bats and draw walks while also showing plenty of bat-to-ball skills. There’s plenty of bat speed to work with, and it’s easy to dream on him getting to his raw power as he gets more physical.

Despite his size, Morel has a legitimate chance to stick at shortstop. He might only have average speed, but his instincts allow that to play up on the bases as well as defensively, showing excellent lateral range and more than enough arm for the premium position. Just 18 for the 2026 season, there’s the chance he’ll outgrow the spot, but there’s no need to worry about moving him yet. With his offensive upside, the Pirates are hoping perhaps Morel can follow a similar track to Top 100 prospect Edward Florentino.

Scouting grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 50 | Run: 50 | Arm: 55 | Field: 50 | Overall: 45  

When the 2025 international signing period was set to begin in January, all signs pointed to Morel joining the Dodgers. Because of their commitment to signing Roki Sasaki, however, Morel switched gears and signed with the Pirates when the period started on January 15 for nearly $1.8 million. He’s made a very solid first impression during his pro debut in the Dominican Summer League at age 17.

Tall and lean at 6-foot-4, Morel is a left-handed-hitting infielder who is already showing off a fairly balanced offensive profile. He has above-average bat speed and recognition at the plate, showing patience and a willingness to take a walk. There was a good amount of swing-and-miss out of the gate, but he started turning that around quickly. Morel has the chance to find the barrel routinely and has plenty of raw power to grow into.

While he’s not a burner, Morel uses the speed he does have very well, with excellent IQ on the basepaths that allows him to be a threat to steal. With smooth actions, an above-average arm and good body control for his size, he has the chance to stick at shortstop. Even if he fills out more and slows down, he should have the skills and potential offensive profile to fit at third base.

Awards

DSL Mid-Season All-Star

Year	Team
2025

Transactions

Team	Date	Transaction
	05/18/2026	SS Darell Morel assigned to FCL Pirates from Bradenton Marauders.
	05/15/2026	SS Darell Morel assigned to Bradenton Marauders from FCL Pirates.
	03/22/2026	SS Darell Morel assigned to Pittsburgh Pirates.
	03/05/2026	SS Darell Morel assigned to Pittsburgh Pirates Prospects.
	01/26/2026	SS Darell Morel assigned to FCL Pirates from DSL Pirates Gold.
	07/20/2025	SS Darell Morel assigned to DSL NL All-Stars.
	06/01/2025	SS Darell Morel assigned to DSL Pirates Gold from DSL Pirates Black.
	02/06/2025	SS Darell Morel assigned to DSL Pirates Black.
	01/15/2025	Pittsburgh Pirates signed free agent SS Darell Morel to a minor league contract.