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Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
Bubba Chandler, 23-year-old Pirates rookie right-hander, is struggling in his first full MLB season with persistent command issues. Through 9 starts, he's 1-5 with a 5.14 ERA over 42 innings, 36 strikeouts to 31 walks, and a 1.52 WHIP. His walk rate (15.6%) is among the highest in baseball. Despite the struggles, he possesses elite stuff including a 98.5 mph fastball (97th percentile) and quality secondary pitches. Chandler has acknowledged his mental approach is hindering performance—he's pitching scared and over-correcting to avoid walks, which paradoxically increases them. Pirates management remains confident he will improve. He's working to adjust his mentality and be more aggressive on the mound.
Strengths
- + Elite fastball velocity (98.5 mph, 97th percentile)
- + Strong strikeout stuff (36 K in 42 IP)
- + Quality secondary pitches (slider, changeup)
- + High first-pitch strike rate (64.7%)
- + Young age (23) with room for development
- + Self-aware about mental approach issues
- + Pirates management confidence in his potential
- + Ability to limit damage despite walks (2 ER in 5 IP vs Arizona)
- + Rated as top prospect entering 2026 season
About
Bubba Chandler is a sp for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Player Overview
SP
Pittsburgh Pirates