Why Texas Rangers Prospect Mitch Bratt needs to keep his head up after WBC

You don’t see many 19-year-old pitchers get the call to start in the World Baseball Classic that often. Well, it happened to Texas Rangers prospect Mitch Bratt as he got the start against Team Canada. Unfortunately, the 19-year-old got rattled early and was pulled in the first inning. You could tell he was visibly upset as Team Canada’s Manager Ernie Whitt came to relieve him of his duties. Let’s talk about the reasons why he should keep his head up moving forward in his career.

Texas Rangers Mitch Bratt: 3. Went up against a unreal lineup

I think Whitt probably realized after the game that he shouldn’t have started the young pitcher against Team USA. Bratt was tasked with going up against unreal talent like Mike Trout, Paul Goldschmidt, Nolan Arenaldo, and others. For those who want an analogy, it’s like asking a high schooler to go up against the baseball “Dream Team”. There were other pitchers on Team Canada’s roster who probably would have had a longer outing than Bratt. The good news for Bratt is he got some practice against some of the top players in the MLB.

Texas Rangers Mitch Bratt: 2. He is on the right track in his career

At 19, the Rangers are very happy with the track that he is currently on. Down with the Down East Ducks last season, Bratt had a 2.45 ERA with a record of 5-5. The fact he only gave up four home runs speaks of how good this young pitcher will be. He needs to keep his head up high and bring that same energy this season in the Texas Rangers Minor League System. I don’t know which team he will end up on this season but whatever team he is assigned to is getting a good pitcher.

Texas Rangers Mitch Bratt: 1. Ranger fans are still behind him after that outing

Bratt needs to realize that fans are still behind him after that outing against Team USA. The fact we got to see him on national TV for a short time is awesome in itself. I don’t know if we have ever had a younger pitcher represent the organization in the World Baseball Classic. We are so proud of him for representing his country and can’t wait to see him develop further in the Rangers organization.