Matt Ager

School: UC Santa Barbara
Commit/Drafted: Never Drafted
Age At Draft: 21.2
BA Grade: 45/High
Tools: Fastball: 50. Slider: 50. Curveball: 45. Changeup: 45. Control: 50.

Ager had appealing starter traits and good fastball shape out of high school, but he lacked consistent velocity and made it to campus at UC Santa Barbara. He split time as a starter and reliever throughout his three seasons in college, with a sensational 2023 campaign as a full-time starter. He took a step back in 2024, when he posted a 4.16 ERA over 62.2 innings, including nine starts and 15 appearances out of the bullpen. Ager looks the part on the mound with a lean, 6-foot-6, 225-pound frame that still has some room for physical projection. He sits in the 90-93 mph range and has been up to 96 in the past, though 95 was more typical for him to top out at this spring. Ager relies on his fastball and a low-80s slider for around 90% of his pitch usage. His slider is a short-breaking pitch with three-quarters shape and solid spin but looks more like an average offering than a breaking ball with wipeout potential. He has also thrown a mid-70s curveball with 12-to-6 downer action and solid finish, though he will cast his curve at times. He also throws a rarely used mid-80s changeup. Scouts appreciate Ager’s projection and delivery, but he has reliever risk and his stuff didn’t take the step forward many had hoped.