Who is Mitch Bratt? Exploring young prospect's fledgling career after rough showing against Team USA

Mitch Bratt, Texas Rangers‘ 19 year-old pitching prospect, had a difficult outing in his first start for Team Canada against Team USA in the World Baseball Classic in Phoenix.

The 19-year-old pitcher, who hasn't pitched above Low Class-A for the Rangers, struggled against a stacked lineup of former Most Valuable Players and All-Stars, giving up six earned runs in just 1/3 innings.

The inning began with a single by former AL MVP Mookie Betts, followed by walks to former AL MVP Mike Trout and reigning NL MVP Paul Goldschmidt, loading the bases. Things quickly got out of hand from there, with several more runs scored before Bratt was pulled.

Despite his difficult outing, Bratt is still highly regarded as the Rangers' No. 17 overall prospect. He was selected in the fifth round of the 2021 MLB draft. He had an impressive first professional season, striking out 99 batters in 80.2 innings over 19 games at low-A Down East.

Bratt went 5-5 with a 2.45 ERA and allowed a .218 opponent batting average and a 1.17 WHIP.

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Exploring Mitch Bratt’s profesional career

Bratt's strong performance in his first professional season earned him a spot on Canada's World Baseball Classic team, where he faced a formidable challenge against some of the game's best hitters. While his first outing did not go as planned, Bratt's talent and potential as a pitcher are sure to keep him in the conversation as he continues to develop in the minor leagues.

Mookie Betts hit a single in the first inning agains Mitch Bratt

Bratt's struggles in the World Baseball Classic highlight the challenges of pitching at the highest level of competition. Facing a lineup of some of the game's most elite players is a daunting task, especially for a young pitcher still developing his skills. Bratt's experience will undoubtedly be a valuable learning opportunity for him, allowing him to grow and improve as a pitcher.

Despite the difficulties he faced in his first outing, Mitch Bratt remains optimistic about his future in the game. In an interview prior to the game, he expressed his confidence in his abilities and his commitment to playing to his strengths. He believes that his strengths as a pitcher are formidable and that when he is at his best, few hitters can make the most of what he has to offer.

Mitch Bratt took on the challenge of facing star-studded Team USA at 19 years old

Bratt's strong performance in his first professional season and his inclusion in Canada's World Baseball Classic team are clear indications of his potential as a pitcher. While he may have struggled in his first outing, his talent and determination are sure to keep him in the conversation as one of the game's rising stars. As he continues to develop in the minor leagues, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for this young pitching prospect.

Mitch Bratt’s final line against Team USA: 0.1 IP, 6 ER, 3 H, 3 BB