Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Michael Darrell-Hicks is a right-handed pitcher who has journeyed through professional baseball after attending South Warren High School and Western Kentucky University. He signed as an undrafted free agent with the Los Angeles Angels and made his MLB debut on April 11, 2025. After being claimed off waivers by the Pittsburgh Pirates in June, he currently pitches for Triple-A Indianapolis Indians. Despite facing significant adversity including Tommy John surgery and the challenges of the minor league system, Hicks has demonstrated resilience and determination to return to the majors and secure a permanent relief role.
Strengths
- + Made MLB debut with Los Angeles Angels on April 11, 2025
- + Successfully navigated undrafted free agent path to professional baseball
- + Demonstrated resilience through Tommy John surgery recovery
- + Currently pitching for Triple-A Indianapolis Indians
- + Expressed strong motivation to return to majors and establish permanent role
- + Overcame adversity including COVID-19 pandemic and minor league challenges
- + Credited Jacksonville University transfer with significant growth
Weaknesses
- - Undrafted free agent status indicates lower initial prospect ranking
- - Currently in Triple-A rather than MLB, suggesting need for further development
- - History of Tommy John surgery indicates previous arm injury
- - Seeking permanent relief role suggests limited opportunities at major league level
- - Multiple organizational changes (Angels to Pirates waiver claim) indicate instability
About
Michael Darrell-Hicks is a rp for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Player Overview
RP
Pittsburgh Pirates