Scouting grades 20–80
55Fastball
55Slider
55Changeup
55Control
Originally a member of 2027 class, Schmidt reclassed up to 2026, immediately becoming one of the top arms in the class. A strongly built southpaw out of California, Schmidt's polish for his age, and complete arsenal immediately stand out. Schmidt is an extremely good mover, getting down the mound well and rotating efficiently with his lower body. Schmidt hides the ball well behind his powerful frame and creates exceptional extension on all his pitches allowing them to play up. It's a tough look for hitters.
Schmidt's velocity showed strong increase over the summer, as a fastball that was originally sitting in the low 90's touching 94 mph, is now sitting 93-96, getting up to 97 mph with tons of arm side run and cary, bullying hitters at the top of zone. He also showcases a slurvy breaker that will sit in the low 80's. While he spins the pitch at an average rate, it tunnels well of his fastball and shows off some late, darting action. Schmidt also flashes a changeup that he sells with conviction which projects an above average offering with some fade and tumble to his armside.
Schmidt is young for the class, as he'll be 17.9 at the time of the draft. The profile might be one of the more alluring out of any prep pitching prospect, as the mature starter look, age, and healthy upside could make Schmidt one of the first prep pitchers off the board.
