Imagine sharing a clubhouse with the very player you were traded for—talk about a full-circle moment! That’s exactly where Mitch Bratt and Kohl Drake find themselves this season with the Arizona Diamondbacks. But here’s where it gets controversial: while both pitchers are turning heads in their first Major League Spring Training, their paths to this point—and their futures—couldn’t be more different. Let’s dive into their stories, their performances, and the bold decisions shaping their careers.
Bratt and Drake kicked off the weekend by starting Saturday and Sunday’s games for the Diamondbacks, marking a significant milestone for both. While Drake experienced big league camp with the Rangers last year (though he didn’t pitch in a game), this is Bratt’s first Major League camp. And this is the part most people miss: despite their shared spotlight, their journeys—and the expectations surrounding them—are worlds apart.
Mitch Bratt: The Crafty Competitor
Bratt, ranked as the No. 9 prospect in the Diamondbacks’ system by MLB Pipeline, showed some jitters in his Saturday outing against the Rockies. He allowed three runs (two earned) on three hits over 1 1/3 innings, with a walk and a strikeout. “First big league spring, first big league game—especially starting—it was fun,” Bratt reflected. “I’m just grateful for the opportunity.”
What’s fascinating about Bratt is his unconventional approach. Unlike pitchers who rely on overpowering fastballs, Bratt leans on deception in his delivery. This creates angles that challenge hitters, making his pitches play up more effectively. “He relentlessly attacks the strike zone,” said Arizona farm director Chris Slivka. “He’s fearless, and that’s something we stress as an organization.”
At just 22, Bratt boasts a diverse arsenal: a four-seam fastball, cutter, changeup, sweeper, and curveball. He’s also refining a two-seamer and his changeup, giving him a full toolkit to keep batters guessing. His decision to skip pitching for Team Canada in the World Baseball Classic—to focus on making an impression with the Diamondbacks—speaks volumes about his dedication.
But here’s the twist: Bratt shares the clubhouse with Carson Kelly, the very player he was traded for. “It was pretty cool to see him sign back here,” Bratt said. “I made sure to tell him I got traded for him, and he thought that was pretty cool, too.” Kelly has become a mentor of sorts, offering insights into his approach to the game.
Kohl Drake: The Comeback Kid
Drake, the No. 6 prospect, started Sunday’s game against the Angels, allowing just one run over two hitless innings. Despite walking two batters, he struck out two and showcased his potential. “That was my first time in a big league game ever,” Drake admitted. “I’m a nervy guy, but I use those nerves to my advantage. If I don’t feel them, I don’t get that adrenaline boost.”
At 25, Drake has already reached Triple-A, splitting time between the Rangers and Diamondbacks last year. His repertoire includes a four-seam fastball, cutter, and curveball, though the Diamondbacks are pushing for more consistency with his cutter. He’s also working on adding a slider to neutralize left-handed hitters.
Drake’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. A shoulder capsule sprain sidelined him after the trade last August, but he’s back and determined. “His last start before the injury, he was pinpoint with his command,” Slivka noted. “We just want to fine-tune his arsenal a little bit.”
The Bigger Picture: A Rotation Battle to Watch
As Bratt and Drake compete for a spot in the Diamondbacks’ 2026 rotation, General Manager Mike Hazen and Manager Torey Lovullo urge patience. With six pitchers vying for roles, this battle could last all spring. Here’s the bold question: Can Bratt’s craftiness and Drake’s resilience translate into consistent success at the Major League level? Or will their unique paths ultimately lead to different destinations?
What do you think? Are Bratt and Drake the future of the Diamondbacks’ rotation, or is it too early to tell? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
