The Pirates farm system had a very good year in 2012. Top pitching prospects
Gerrit Cole,
Jameson Taillon, and
Luis Heredia pitched well and stayed healthy. In the positional player department, young Latin American prospects
Alen Hanson and
Gregory Polanco enjoyed massive breakout seasons. Several other players -
Kyle McPherson,
Jeff Locke,
Nick Kingham,
Barrett Barnes,
Clay Holmes,
Tyler Glasnow, and
Wyatt Mathisen, among others - also performed well. The net overall result was a resounding positive. That said, it doesn't mean the system was without it's share of failures. Looking at those failures might not be as enjoyable as the examining the success stories, but it's important to recognize the system's shortcomings. Six players that took a step backwards are listed below.
