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Director's List: McLennan & Weatherford Arms

April 22, 2025
Brandon Gowins
Texas Scouting Director

TEXAS - When Weatherford and McLennan meet on the diamond, fans can always count on high-level competition—and the recent home-and-home series between these two Texas JUCO powerhouses was no exception. Over four games played on April 16 in Weatherford and April 18 in Waco, both teams showcased elite arms and clutch performances on the mound. From dominant starts to gutsy relief appearances, the series delivered a showcase of some of the best pitching talent in the region. Today, Scouting Director, Brandon Gowins gives acloser look at the top arms from the 4 game stretch between the Coyotes & Highlanders.

Name: Noah Bentley
 Position: RHP
 College: Weatherford JC
 4-Year Commitment: Uncommitted

Scouting Report:
 Bentley has emerged as a go-to arm at the back end of the bullpen for Weatherford. In a high-leverage two-inning save against MCC, he came out attacking with a 91–93 mph fastball that topped at 94, showing the ability to challenge hitters in the zone. His slider, a swing-and-miss offering at 79–81 mph with spin rates north of 2500 rpm, kept hitters off balance and gave him a true out-pitch. He recorded saves in both of Weatherford’s wins over MCC, flashing the mentality and presence you want at the end of the game. Bentley pitches with intensity, competes in the zone, and wants the ball in big moments. He has a strong frame and looks built to handle the demands of throwing multiple times a week.

Name: Evan Brandt
 Position: RHP
 College: Weatherford JC
 4-Year Commitment: Arizona

Scouting Report:
 Brandt, a recent Arizona commit, continues to anchor the Weatherford rotation and took the ball in Game 1 against MCC. The sophomore right-hander worked 90–93 and touched 94 with a heavy fastball that he consistently sinks at the bottom of the zone, generating weak contact. He mixed in a slider at 81–83 and showed feel for a changeup at 83. Brandt gave up just two earned runs over five innings and helped secure a Game 1 win. Durable and competitive, he’s been a reliable workhorse for the Coyotes and continues to trend upward.

Name: Cooper Strawn
 Position: RHP
 College: Weatherford JC
 4-Year Commitment: Uncommitted

Scouting Report:
 Strawn was impressive in his Game 2 start, flashing a three-pitch mix that kept hitters guessing. The physical right-hander sat 91–94 with the fastball and leaned heavily on a sharp breaking ball at 76–80 that was a true weapon in this outing. He racked up 10 strikeouts in just 4 2/3 innings, showing the ability to miss bats consistently. Strawn also mixed in a splitter at 85–86 that gave hitters a different look and added to the deception. He’s an aggressive competitor on the mound with an edge to him, and he pairs that mentality with exceptional athleticism for his size. He continues to look strong this spring and is trending in the right direction as a potential impact arm.

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