Ben Brown is a pitcher who keeps fans on the edge of their seats. When he's on, he shows flashes of brilliance that justify all the buzz surrounding him.
But consistency has been elusive, with a few rough outings often following his stellar performances. This spring, however, Brown seems to be turning a corner, showcasing newfound confidence and a revamped pitching arsenal.
In Cactus League play, Brown has been electric, striking out 15 batters over 10 2/3 innings and holding opponents to a .205 batting average. It's a performance that's got everyone excited about what he could achieve in 2026.
“I believe that I’m capable of doing these things, I’m capable of bouncing back from these things,” Brown shared with the Chicago Tribune. He acknowledges the ups and downs but emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, even when things go well, to avoid dismissing success as mere luck.
A key to Brown's transformation has been his offseason work with Mets pitcher Clay Holmes. Holmes helped him add a sinker to his repertoire, which already included a four-seamer, curve, and occasional change-up. This new pitch could be a game-changer for Brown, offering him more versatility on the mound.
Despite a crowded rotation in Chicago, Brown's adaptability could be his ticket to more opportunities. He’s no stranger to switching between starting and relieving, a skill that could prove invaluable over a grueling 162-game season.
“I feel like I’m in a much better spot than I was last year,” Brown said. He’s focused on resilience and versatility, aiming to make the most of each opportunity, whether it’s in the bullpen or starting rotation. Brown knows he didn’t maximize his potential last year, but he’s determined to change that narrative now.