Buddy
Brands

Currently our 6th overall player in the class, Brands has been on the scene for a while now since he had a breakout 2021 season which culminated with a terrific showing at the ‘21 PBR Future Games. A polished righty with mature pitchability and consistent command, Brands was pitching 87-90 late this summer at Area Codes and has flashed similar velocity across multiple looks in both game and bullpen settings. At 6’2, 200 lbs, he has a starter build and pitches with sustainable effort. He uses a firm SL/Cutter as his main secondary and it flashes tight, late darting action at 79-81. Doesn’t need to use his CH often but its a quality 3rd offering with arm-side run at 77-80. Given his velocity, stuff and track record of throwing strikes, Brands is set for another strong season on the mound and is likely to have several suitors in the market for his ability.

Brands looked every bit the part of a future starter as he dominated the opposition across two appearances. The 6-foot-3, 200-pound right-hander is an elite mover down the mound with a flawless delivery that allows him to find a consistent ¾ slot. The fastball worked at an effortless 86-88 to both sides of the plate producing some ride and run through the zone while procuring swings and misses. Brands flashed feel for both a gradual curveball in the low 70s that he landed for strikes, and a firmer cutter/slider in the upper 70s that holds upside as a potential out pitch moving forward. He also showcased feel for a faded 77-80 changeup that profiles well off the fastball. With relatively low miles on him, Brands has immense upside moving forward. He committed to Oregon following the event.