SCOTTSDALE – Arizona Diamondbacks right-hand starting pitcher Brandon Pfaadt rose to fame during the 2023 postseason run. At only 24 years old, Pfaadt dominated on the biggest stage and helped lead Arizona to its first World Series since 2001. The following year, the right-hander had a solid first season as a full-time starter, with some bumps that he’ll smooth out before next season. However, Pfaadt’s latest start against the San Francisco Giants was concerning.
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Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Brandon Pfaadt during spring training workouts at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick on Feb. 14, 2025, in Scottsdale. Syndication: Arizona Republic
In 1.1 innings of work, Pfaadt allowed three runs on six hits and one walk. Wednesday’s performance bloated his Spring Training ERA to 8.10. Pfaadt has only pitched 3.1 innings this spring, with his first start a smooth 2.0 innings with zero runs. However, today, he struggled with his off-speed pitches that the Giants saw well in the zone.
Pfaadt boasts an impressive five-pitch arsenal, with his 4-seam fastball and sweeper being his most effective. The other three, Curveball, Changeup, and Sinker, all gave him trouble as he struggled with control during his short stint.
Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Brandon Pfaadt (32) pitches against the San Diego Padres at Chase Field in Phoenix on Sept. 29, 2024. Syndication: Arizona Republic
Diamondbacks have a stellar starting rotation of experienced arms, notably bringing in 2021 Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes, who’ll all help the young Pfaadt on the mound. 2025 will only be Pfaadt’s second season as a full-time starter, and he’s already shown promising flashes on the bump. Since his debut, Pfaadt’s 18.9 K-BB% is 16th best in the MLB, while having the second lowest strand rate last year with 64.5%.
Wednesday wasn’t Pfaadt’s best performance, but the right-hander still has plenty of time to adjust before the start of the season next month.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
