Pfaadt Seeks 2026 Comeback: Fixing the Sweeper

Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Brandon Pfaadt is preparing for the 2026 season with a focus on regaining form after a difficult 2025. Last year, Pfaadt experienced a career-low strikeout rate and a 5.25 ERA, marked by considerable volatility in his performance. Despite these results, he remains a key part of the team's starting pitching rotation.

Pfaadt acknowledges the statistical downturn of 2025, stating that "the stats don't roll over." He is committed to mental and physical readiness for a solid year, aiming to move past previous struggles and achieve greater consistency. A significant area of focus is his sweeper pitch, which saw its effectiveness decline in 2025 compared to 2024.

To address this, Pfaadt has made minor adjustments to his delivery, with pitching coach Brian Kaplan emphasizing staying "through the catcher a little bit longer." The goal is to restore the sweeper's effectiveness, a pitch Pfaadt relies on heavily. If these adjustments prove successful, a more stable and successful 2026 season is anticipated for the young pitcher.