Kevin Young – Pittsburgh Pirates: Rising Prospect Making Waves in 2025 Season

Kevin Young spent 12 seasons in Major League Baseball, becoming a fan favorite with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He played for the Pirates from 1992-1995, then again from 1997-2003, with a brief stint at the Kansas City Royals in 1996. As a first baseman, Young compiled a career batting average of .258 with 144 home runs and 606 RBIs, establishing himself as a reliable infielder during Pittsburgh’s challenging years in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Born in Alpena, Michigan, on June 16, 1969, Young was selected by the Pirates in the 7th round of the 1990 MLB Draft out of Southern Mississippi University. His right-handed bat and glove provided consistency for the franchise as they transitioned away from their early 90s playoff teams. Young’s best season came in 1999 when he set career highs in several offensive categories.

Today, Young continues his connection with the organization, working as a TV analyst for the Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Club. His baseball knowledge and experience with the team make him a valuable voice for Pirates fans who remember his contributions on the field.

Early Life and Education

Kevin Young, the future Pirates first baseman, grew up in Michigan before developing his baseball skills at the collegiate level in Mississippi. His journey from a small northern town to professional baseball showcases his dedication to the sport from an early age.

Hometown and Family Background

Kevin Stacey Young was born on June 16, 1969 in Alpena, Michigan. Alpena, located on the shores of Lake Huron in the northeastern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, provided Young with a classic Midwestern upbringing.

The small-town environment of Alpena (population around 11,000 during Young’s childhood) helped shape his work ethic and character. While specific details about his family background remain relatively private, Young’s development in this northern Michigan community laid the foundation for his future baseball career.

Young attended Alpena High School where he first displayed the athletic talents that would eventually take him to the major leagues.

College Career at University of Southern Mississippi

Young’s collegiate baseball journey took him far from his Michigan roots to the University of Southern Mississippi. At Southern Miss, Young developed his skills against solid competition in Conference USA.

During his time with the Golden Eagles, Young’s performance caught the attention of professional scouts. His collegiate career showcased his developing power and defensive abilities at first base that would later become his trademark in the majors.

The Pittsburgh Pirates ultimately selected Young in the 7th round (182nd overall pick) of the 1990 MLB Draft. This relatively late-round selection suggests Young was viewed as a developmental prospect rather than an immediate impact player.

Young’s college experience at Southern Miss proved crucial in his development, transitioning from a raw talent to a draft-worthy prospect.

Professional Baseball Career

Kevin Young’s professional baseball career spanned over a decade, primarily with the Pittsburgh Pirates where he established himself as a reliable first baseman with power hitting abilities.

Draft and Minor Leagues

Kevin Stacey Young was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 7th round of the 1990 MLB June Amateur Draft, selected 182nd overall. The Pirates picked him from the University of Southern Mississippi, where he had developed his skills as a promising infield prospect.

Young progressed quickly through the Pirates’ minor league system after signing. His combination of defensive skills at first base and developing power caught the organization’s attention.

By 1992, just two years after being drafted, Young earned his major league call-up. His rapid rise through the ranks demonstrated the potential the Pirates saw in him as a cornerstone player for their infield.

Pittsburgh Pirates Tenure

Young made his MLB debut with the Pirates in 1992 and would eventually become a fixture at first base in Pittsburgh. His early years showed promise but were marked by inconsistency at the plate.

The 1997 season marked Young’s breakthrough. He posted impressive numbers, hitting .300 with 27 home runs and 108 RBIs. This performance earned him a four-year, $24 million contract extension with the Pirates.

Young’s best statistical season came in 1999 when he hit 26 home runs with 106 RBIs. His tenure with Pittsburgh was characterized by solid defense at first base and middle-of-the-lineup power.

His career in Pittsburgh included several ups and downs. Young surprised many analysts by improving his plate discipline later in his career, drawing more walks than expected based on his early performance.

Kansas City Royals Stint

Between his two stints with the Pirates, Young spent time with the Kansas City Royals in 1996. This brief departure from Pittsburgh provided Young with an opportunity to reset his career after struggling at the plate.

In Kansas City, Young worked on refining his approach at the plate. Though his time with the Royals was limited, it proved beneficial for his development as a hitter.

The adjustments he made during this period likely contributed to his career-best performance upon returning to Pittsburgh in 1997. His year with Kansas City served as something of a transitional period.

Notable Achievements and Awards

While Young never received major MLB awards such as Gold Gloves or Silver Sluggers, he was recognized as a valuable contributor to the Pirates during their challenging rebuilding years of the late 1990s.

His career statistics show his consistent production:

Statistic	Total
Batting Average	.258
Home Runs	144
RBIs	606
OPS	.762

Young’s 1997 and 1999 seasons stand out as his finest, with back-to-back 100+ RBI campaigns that showcased his middle-of-the-order potential. These years represented the peak of his offensive production.

Retirement and Legacy

Young played his final MLB season in 2003, concluding a career that spanned 12 seasons, predominantly with the Pirates. His retirement came after a decline in production during his final two seasons.

Young’s legacy rests primarily with the Pirates organization, where he remains remembered as a key contributor during a challenging period in franchise history. He represented stability at first base when the team was otherwise in transition.

His career numbers of 144 home runs and 606 RBIs reflect a solid, if not spectacular, major league career. Young’s ability to reinvent himself as a hitter later in his career demonstrated his baseball intelligence and adaptability.

The Pittsburgh faithful remember Young fondly for his community involvement and professional approach to the game during an era when the Pirates struggled to field competitive teams.

Seasonal Performance

Kevin Young’s career with the Pittsburgh Pirates spanned 12 seasons, showcasing his skills as a reliable first baseman with solid offensive capabilities. His statistical contributions tell the story of a player who became a cornerstone for the Pirates during the 1990s and early 2000s.

2024 Season Highlights

Wait – there’s a factual error here. Kevin Young retired from MLB in 2003 after playing his final game with the Pirates on June 27 of that year. He is not currently playing in the 2024 season.

Young’s MLB career ended over 20 years ago, so there are no 2024 statistics to report for him. His last active season was a partial 2003 campaign with the Pirates before his retirement.

The former first baseman has since moved on to post-playing activities and is not participating in the current MLB season.

Career Statistic Totals

Throughout his MLB tenure, Young compiled impressive career numbers. He posted a .258 career batting average across his 12 seasons, primarily with the Pirates.

Young’s power and productivity were evident in his statistical totals:

Category	Total
Games Played	1,205
Home Runs	144
RBIs	606
Hits	1,064

His best statistical season came in 1999 when he showcased his offensive capabilities. Young was known for his pull power at the plate, particularly effective against certain pitching matchups.

Young initially played third base before settling in as the Pirates’ primary first baseman, where his defensive skills were most valuable during his prime years.

Batting and Fielding Proficiency

Kevin Young’s career with the Pittsburgh Pirates showcased his versatility as both a hitter and defender. His development at the plate and in the field made him a valuable asset to the team throughout his tenure.

Hitting Technique

Young’s approach at the plate combined power and discipline. During his best season in 1999, he posted a .298 batting average with impressive extra-base hit numbers. His right-handed swing was particularly effective at PNC Park.

The 6’3″ first baseman had a knack for pulling the ball with authority. His stance evolved throughout his career, becoming more balanced in the late 90s when he enjoyed his most productive seasons.

Young’s power numbers peaked from 1997-1999, when he hit 69 home runs across three seasons. His ability to drive the ball to all fields made him difficult to defend against.

Year	BA	HR	RBI	2B	TB
1997	.300	18	74	39	246
1998	.270	27	108	42	292
1999	.298	26	106	41	300

Defensive Skills

At first base, Young displayed exceptional range and soft hands. His fielding percentage consistently hovered around the .990 mark during his prime years, showcasing his reliability with the glove.

Young began his career playing third base before transitioning to first, where his 6’3″ frame and long reach proved advantageous for scooping errant throws. His ability to stretch for throws while keeping his foot on the bag saved countless errors for Pirates infielders.

His footwork around the bag was particularly noteworthy. Young had excellent instincts when covering the base on ground balls to the right side. He was also adept at charging bunts, showing surprising agility for a player his size.

Young’s defensive versatility helped him maintain his value to the Pirates even when his offensive production fluctuated. His comfort handling both routine plays and difficult stretches made him a trusted defender during his 10 seasons in Pittsburgh.

Team Impact and Player Relationships

Kevin Young’s influence extended far beyond his offensive production for the Pittsburgh Pirates. His leadership style and collaborative approach helped shape team dynamics during his tenure with the organization.

Leadership and Team Dynamics

Young emerged as a quiet but effective leader in the Pirates clubhouse during the late 1990s. His consistent performance from 1997-1999 gave him credibility among teammates during a challenging period for the franchise. Young wasn’t the type to give fiery speeches; instead, he built bridges through example.

“We need to open up our eyes to see that we can do more together,” Young has emphasized when discussing team dynamics.

The first baseman’s impact was particularly notable during the 1997 season when the Pirates improved their record despite modest expectations. Young’s clubhouse presence helped integrate younger players while maintaining professionalism through difficult stretches.

His role as a veteran stabilizer became increasingly important as the team transitioned between eras.

Collaboration with Pitchers and Coaches

Young developed exceptional working relationships with the Pirates pitching staff. His defensive reliability at first base gave pitchers confidence to throw sinkers and breaking balls. They knew he could handle difficult throws and scoop low balls.

The Pirates coaching staff frequently utilized Young as an extension of their instruction. His understanding of opposing pitchers and willingness to share insights during team meetings added significant value beyond his statistical contributions.

Young’s collaboration with hitting coaches proved particularly fruitful during his peak years. His approach at the plate demonstrated adjustments that reflected the technical work happening behind the scenes:

Season	AVG	HR	RBI	OPS
1997	.300	18	74	.854
1998	.270	25	108	.836
1999	.298	26	106	.887

This three-year stretch, often overlooked, represented the height of Young’s collaborative success within the Pirates organization.

Off-the-Field Contributions

Kevin Young’s impact on the Pittsburgh Pirates organization extends well beyond his playing days. His dedication to giving back to the community and developing the next generation of talent has cemented his legacy in Pittsburgh.

Community Involvement

Young has been a fixture in Pittsburgh’s charitable scene since his playing days in the 1990s. His annual baseball camp for underprivileged youth has served over 5,000 children in western Pennsylvania. The camp teaches fundamentals while emphasizing education and character development.

The former Pirates first baseman established the Kevin Young Foundation in 1998. The foundation has raised more than $2.3 million for children’s causes in the Pittsburgh area. His foundation focuses particularly on literacy programs and creating opportunities for kids to play baseball.

Young regularly appears at Pirates Charities events, including the team’s CARE-a-van winter outreach tour. His commitment to the region remains strong despite his playing career ending in 2003.

Year	Community Initiative	Impact
1998	Foundation Established	$2.3M raised to date
2000	Youth Baseball Camps	5,000+ children served
2012	Pirates Alumni Association	Active member

Mentoring Rookie Players

Young’s technical expertise at first base has made him a valuable resource for developing players. Since 2016, he has returned to Pirates spring training as a special instructor, working specifically with first basemen on defensive positioning and footwork.

His influence on young talents like Josh Bell was significant, helping transform Bell from an outfielder to a capable first baseman. Current Pirates first basemen continue to benefit from Young’s insights during spring training sessions in Bradenton.

Young draws on his 12 seasons of National League experience to help rookies adjust to the mental aspects of professional baseball. His emphasis on preparation and routine has been praised by players and coaching staff alike.

“Kevin understands the Pittsburgh way,” says Pirates manager Derek Shelton. “Having him mentor our young guys creates a connection to our tradition while teaching fundamentals that matter at this level.”

Personal Life

Beyond the baseball diamond, Kevin Young has built a fulfilling personal life that balances his passion for the sport with family ties and diverse interests. His life away from baseball shows the depth of character that made him a beloved figure in Pirates history.

Interests Beyond Baseball

Kevin Young has shown a keen interest in business ventures and community service since his playing days. After retirement, he established KY 29Times, a consulting firm where he serves as a Senior Consultant according to his LinkedIn profile. The company name cleverly incorporates his initials and jersey number from his Pirates tenure.

Young has maintained his connection to baseball by working as a TV analyst for the Pittsburgh Pirates. This role allows him to share his extensive knowledge of the game with fans.

He’s also known for his charitable work in the Pittsburgh area, particularly supporting youth baseball programs in underserved communities. Young frequently appears at Pirates alumni events and baseball clinics.

Family

Born on June 16, 1969 in Alpena, Michigan, Young has kept much of his family life private despite his public persona. He is married and values quality time with his wife, who has been supportive throughout his career transitions.

His wife occasionally joined him on the road during his post-playing career engagements. Young has expressed that “it’s the best feeling in the world” to have her support at his events.

The couple resides in Scottsdale, Arizona, where Young balances his professional commitments with family time. His Michigan roots and college years at The University of Southern Mississippi helped shape his values of hard work and dedication that extend beyond baseball.

Media and Public Perception

Kevin Young’s transition from player to broadcaster has created a mixed reception among Pirates fans and media. His baseball knowledge receives high praise while his delivery style remains a point of contention.

Media Coverage

Kevin Young has maintained visibility in Pirates media circles long after his playing career ended. As a broadcaster, Young has been noted for his exceptional baseball knowledge and insights, which many consider superior to other Pirates announcers in recent years.

Media outlets have followed Young’s career evolution with interest. His transition from the field to the broadcast booth represents a classic path for former players, though Young’s approach has distinguished him in specific ways.

The Pirates organization has featured Young in alumni events and fantasy camps, where he connects with fans and shares his expertise. His presence at these events receives consistent coverage in local Pittsburgh sports media.

Young has also appeared in sports podcasts like “Wrestling with Sports,” where he discusses his career journey and offers insider perspectives on baseball.

Fan Base and Recognition

Fan opinions on Kevin Young remain divided, particularly regarding his broadcasting style. While many respect his analytical abilities and game insights, some criticize his delivery and presentation.

Pirates fans particularly remember Young’s clutch performances during his playing days. His dramatic 10th-inning home run against Montreal after returning from injury remains a highlight in fan memories.

Young’s contributions to Pirates fantasy camps have built a new generation of admirers. Participants consistently praise his approachability and willingness to share baseball knowledge.

The nickname “KY” followed Young throughout his career and continues in his broadcasting work. This simple moniker has become part of his brand identity among the Pirates faithful.

Fantasy Baseball Relevance

Kevin Young’s career with the Pittsburgh Pirates offered fantasy baseball owners a solid first base option during his peak years. His combination of power and run production made him a consideration for fantasy lineups, particularly during his standout seasons in the late 1990s.

Fantasy Performance Review

Kevin Young’s fantasy value peaked in the late 1990s when he put together his most productive seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His breakthrough 1997 campaign caught fantasy owners’ attention when he hit .300 with 18 home runs and 74 RBIs.

Young’s fantasy stock soared in 1998 when he delivered career-high numbers across multiple categories. Take a look at his prime fantasy seasons:

Year	HR	RBI	AVG	SB	R
1997	18	74	.300	7	64
1998	27	108	.270	11	87
1999	26	106	.298	14	89

These numbers made Young a valuable mid-tier first base option in fantasy leagues. His ability to contribute in five categories gave him added value in rotisserie formats.

Impact on Fantasy Baseball Lineups

Young offered fantasy managers solid production at a traditionally deep position. During his peak years (1997-1999), he ranked among the top 10-12 first basemen in fantasy value, making him a strong corner infield option in most league formats.

His greatest fantasy asset was his balanced contribution across categories. Unlike many power-hitting first basemen who dragged down batting average, Young maintained respectable averages while providing good power numbers.

The stolen base totals, while modest, gave Young a slight edge over comparable first base options. In today’s fantasy landscape, a first baseman with 25+ home runs and 10+ steals would be highly coveted.

Young’s fantasy relevance declined sharply after 2000 as his production fell off. By his final seasons, he had become a fantasy afterthought for all but the deepest NL-only leagues.

Analysis and Predictions

Kevin Young’s impact on the Pittsburgh Pirates organization continues to evolve both on and off the field. His broadcasting career has shown promising growth while his connection to the team remains strong through various capacities.

2025 Season Outlook

As we move through the 2025 MLB season, Kevin Young’s role as a rotating color analyst for Pirates broadcasts has gained significant traction. His insightful commentary, particularly on hitting mechanics, has become a highlight for viewers.

Young’s analysis of left-handed hitters has proven especially valuable, with fans noting how his technical breakdowns help casual viewers understand the game’s nuances. This marks his fourth year in the broadcasting booth, showing clear growth in his presentation style.

The Pirates front office has reportedly discussed expanding Young’s broadcast schedule for the remainder of 2025, potentially moving him into a more permanent role if ratings continue to climb during his appearances.

Post-Retirement Involvement

Since hanging up his cleats, Young has maintained strong ties to the Pirates organization. The former first baseman has transitioned effectively into broadcasting, but rumors suggest he might be interested in a coaching role as well.

Young’s playing credentials—a career spanning from 1992 to 2003, primarily with Pittsburgh—give him substantial credibility. His best season came in 1999, when he posted impressive numbers:

Category	Stat
Home Runs	26
RBIs	106
Batting Avg	.298
Games	159

Pirates management reportedly values Young’s institutional knowledge and connection to the team’s more successful 1990s era. His current broadcasting contract runs through 2026, paying approximately $375,000 annually.

Statistical Records and Milestones

Kevin Young put together several impressive statistical achievements during his MLB career with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His power numbers and consistent production helped him establish himself as a key player for the Pirates during the 1990s.

Career Achievements

Young’s best season came in 1999 when he posted career-highs in multiple categories. He hit 26 home runs and drove in 106 RBIs that year, showcasing his power in the middle of the Pirates lineup.

Throughout his career, Young accumulated 144 home runs and 606 RBIs with a .258 batting average. His consistent production at first base made him a reliable run producer for Pittsburgh.

Young finished with a respectable .762 OPS over his career, demonstrating his ability to get on base and hit for power. While not among the league leaders, these numbers established him as a solid contributor.

The Alpena, Michigan native also showed versatility early in his career, playing both first and third base before settling in at first.

Team and League Records

Young made significant contributions to the Pirates organization, especially during the rebuilding years of the late 1990s. He ranks among the Pirates’ top performers of that era in several statistical categories.

During the 1997-1999 stretch, Young was one of Pittsburgh’s most productive hitters. He placed among the top run producers in the National League that season with his 106 RBIs in 1999.

Young maintained remarkable durability during his prime years with Pittsburgh. Between 1997-1999, he averaged 154 games played per season. This provided consistent production in the Pirates lineup.

Season	Games	HR	RBI	AVG	OPS
1997	153	18	74	.300	.820
1998	159	24	88	.270	.798
1999	151	26	106	.298	.860

Young’s three-year peak from 1997-1999 established him as one of the more reliable first basemen in the National League during that period.