Drafted 73rd overall by the Pirates in 2025, Murf Gray didn’t make his pro debut after signing for just under $1 million. He hit .324/.398/.639 with 18 home runs and 73 RBI during his final season at Fresno State. 

While taking one look at him (listed at 6’4″, 230 pounds) and seeing his home run totals, you might think he fits into that prototypical slugger profile, but there’s more to his game. 

Gray struck out just 10.8% of his plate appearances in 2025, while (according to FanGraphs) he posted a 91% contact rate against fastballs, and a ’70’ grade in-zone contact rate.

He also has had some success with wood bats, hitting .329/.367/.500 with five home runs and a strikeout rate below 10% in 35 games during the 2024 Cape Cod League.

The biggest question is where he will play defensively. He has the arm to play third base, but his size may limit his range, which would lead to a move to first.

His draft position and advanced feel for hitting, there’s a good chance that Gray bypasses Bradenton and opens his pro career in High-A Greensboro.Â