The San Francisco Giants selected Arkansas right-handed pitcher Ben Bybee in the eighth round of the 2025 MLB Draft (236th overall pick). Bybee primarily worked out of Arkansas bullpen this spring and so, presumably is expected to work out of the pen with the Giants. Bybee was expected to go in the range of rounds 5-10 so will likely command a bonus around the $232,000 recommended slot value for the pick.
Arkansas has consistently had one of the best pitching staffs in the NCAA over Bybee’s career. With so much premium competition, he never carved out a clear role for himself. This spring, Bybee worked primarily out of the bullpen, recording a 4.38 ERA with 42 strikeouts and 15 walks in 37 innings pitched (18 appearances). He had started 14 games over his first two college seasons, but had an ERA north of 5.00.
Bybee lacks a clear out pitch, which raises some questions about his ceiling at the next level. However, he also showcased good feel for a 3-4 pitch mix, pounding the strike zone with his mid-90s fastball, changeup, and breaking pitches. At 6’6-230, Bybee’s frame should allow him to handle a professional work load, and it’s worth wondering if the Giants will give him another opportunity to start.