Bubba Chandler is one of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ brightest young talents. Known for his electric arm and poise on the mound, he’s quickly risen through the ranks, turning heads in the minors and hinting at a major league future.
His path to Pittsburgh wasn’t accidental. A standout at Lawrenceville High, he excelled in baseball, drawing national attention. He committed to a MLB journey that has fans and scouts watching closely.
His game combines velocity, precision and an ever-evolving repertoire. While stats and milestones hint at his potential, his story is still unfolding—promising exciting chapters ahead for both him and the Pirates.
How old is Bubba Chandler?
Born Roy Ruben Chandler on September 14, 2002, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, Bubba Chandler is a 22-year-old right-handed pitcher in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization.
Bubba Chandler #13 of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches during the seventh inning of the All-Star Futures Game at Globe Life Field on July 13, 2024. (Source: Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)
Initially a dual-sport star excelling in both baseball and football, he was drafted by the Pirates in the third round of the 2021 MLB Draft. Opting to pursue baseball full-time, he signed with Pittsburgh for a $3 million bonus.
How tall is Bubba Chandler?
Bubba Chandler stands at 6 feet 3 inches and weighs 218 pounds, giving him a commanding presence on the mound. His athletic build contributes to his impressive velocity and durability, making him a formidable prospect in the Pirates’ system.
Bubba Chandler’s love life
Bubba Chandler’s journey through the minor leagues has been accompanied by his girlfriend, Allie Enright. She has been a constant presence in his life, offering support and companionship as he navigates the challenges of professional baseball.
Their relationship has been highlighted through shared moments on social media, providing fans with a glimpse into their life together. For instance, she celebrated their one-year anniversary with a heartfelt post on TikTok, showcasing their bond.
In January 2025, the couple joined fellow Pirates’ pitcher Paul Skenes and his girlfriend, gymnast Olivia Dunne, for a New Year’s Eve celebration in New Orleans. The double date was shared on social media, further highlighting the close-knit relationships among the Pirates’ young stars.
Bubba Chandler’s family
Bubba’s family has been instrumental in his development both as an athlete and as an individual. His parents, Reuben and Bobbi Chandler, have been unwavering supporters, attending games and celebrating milestones.
Bubba Chandler #57 of the Pittsburgh Pirates poses during the 2024 Pittsburgh Pirates Photo Day at Pirate City on February 20, 2024. (Source: Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
Their involvement in his journey was particularly evident during the 2021 MLB Draft. Initially, when he wasn’t selected in the first round, the atmosphere was tense. However, when the Pirates chose him in the third round and offered a $3 million bonus, the family’s joy was palpable.
His older sisters, Jordan and Cody, also played a role in his upbringing. They affectionately gave him the nickname “Bubba” when he was a toddler, a moniker that has stuck with him throughout his life. Their support and the family’s close-knit nature have been foundational in shaping his character and work ethic.
Bubba Chandler’s social media accounts
Bubba Chandler maintains an active presence on social media, particularly on Instagram (@bubbachandler_) and X (@Bubbachandler_), where he shares updates on his career, training, and personal life. His platforms offer fans a glimpse into the life of the Pirates’ top pitching prospect.
What is Bubba Chandler’s jersey number?
Bubba Chandler wears jersey number 57 for the Pittsburgh Pirates, a number that has become associated with his rise as one of the organization’s top pitching prospects. While numbers are often just identifiers on the field, for him it marks his first steps in the major leagues after years of dedication in the minors.
Bubba Chandler #13 of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches during the seventh inning of the All-Star Futures Game at Globe Life Field on July 13, 2024. (Source: Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)
The choice may not carry the historical weight of legends like Roberto Clemente or Willie Stargell, but for him, it’s symbolic of a new chapter. Every start and inning pitched in this number is a tangible milestone, a visual cue of his growing role in the Pirates’ rotation.
Bubba Chandler’s career highlights
Drafted in 2021 – A Dual-Sport Decision: He was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the third round of the MLB Draft, signing for a bonus above the recommended slot. He was originally a top-round talent as both a right-handed pitcher and a two-way player, also recruited to play quarterback at Clemson. Choosing professional baseball marked the start of his full-time career.
Transition to Full-Time Pitcher in 2023: He shifted exclusively to pitching, leaving behind his role as a hitter. This focus allowed him to maximize his potential on the mound. In 2024, he posted a 3.46 ERA over 26 starts between Double-A and Triple-A, striking out 148 batters in 119⅔ innings while holding opponents to a .189 batting average.
Rise to Triple-A and Early Accolades: In 2024, he earned a promotion to Triple-A Indianapolis, immediately impressing with seven strikeouts in seven innings during his debut. He was recognized as International League Pitcher of the Week, highlighting his growing reputation as a top pitching prospect.
2025 Season and Continued Success: During the 2025 season, he recorded a 5-6 record with a 4.05 ERA across 24 Triple-A starts, striking out 121 batters in 100 innings. Despite a brief rough stretch in August with a 7.50 ERA over three starts, his overall performance solidified his status as the Pirates’ top pitching prospect.
MLB Debut – A Long-Awaited Moment: On August 20, 2025, the Pittsburgh Pirates promoted him to the major leagues for his debut against the Colorado Rockies. He is expected to work primarily as a multi-inning reliever, with potential starts later in the season. This promotion represents a major milestone in his career and a highly anticipated moment for Pirates fans.
