Scouting grades 20–80
50Fastball
50Slider
60Changeup
55Control
Beard is one of the more intruiging arms in the class for various reasons. It's a funky, over the top look that gets batters out at a high clip. After a strong year at FAU, Beard will be transferring to Florida State, where he's expected to compete heavily for the friday night role. With a jump and stuff and a solid ACC showing, Beard has a chance to really skyrocket his draft stock this upcoming season.
A lean south paw, Beard has some of the more unique throwing characteristics in the class. He launches from an extremely high arm slot, generating a tough, uncomfortable look for hitters. Beard's go to is a fastball that will sit in the 88-92 mph range, getting up to 94. There's exceptional carry on the pitch, allowing it to miss bats at a high clip up in the zone. Beard also throws a bullet slider in the low 80's, a pitch you normally wouldn't see from the arm slot. He'll pair it with a softer mid 70's changeup that he sells with great arm speed, plenty of seperation of the heater that gets hitters swinging out in front on the pitch. Beard was one of the higher regarded arms in the transfer portal for a reason, the projection and unique pitch data really stands out. He's got a high chance to start at the next level, likely a back end of the rotation arm when it's all said and done.
