Payton Graham, RHP, Gonzaga: Rising Star Making Waves in College Baseball
Payton Graham is quickly climbing the ranks as one of college baseball’s most intriguing pitching prospects. The Gonzaga right-hander has been turning heads with his impressive performances on the mound, earning accolades like West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Week while demonstrating the kind of stuff that has professional scouts taking notice. Graham represents one of the brightest talents in the upcoming draft class and is currently ranked among the top 100 prospects for the 2025 MLB Draft.
Standing at 6-2 and weighing 220 pounds, Graham brings a powerful presence to the mound for the Zags. His 2024 campaign has showcased his strikeout potential, with 34 Ks across his appearances. While his 1-4 record might not immediately impress, the numbers don’t tell the full story of his development and potential. Graham’s versatility has also been on display, as he’s appeared in 16 games with a mix of starts and relief appearances, showing the adaptability that MLB organizations covet.
| Player | Position | B/T | Height | Weight | 2024 Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Payton Graham | RHP | R/R | 6-2 | 220 | 1-4, 34 K, 16 appearances |
Contents
Payton Graham’s Background
Payton Graham has emerged as one of Gonzaga’s most promising pitchers, bringing a unique combination of skill and determination to the mound. His journey from Washington state to becoming a standout right-handed pitcher for the Zags showcases his development as a baseball prospect.
Early Life and Education
Born November 4, 2003, in Vancouver, Washington, Payton Graham developed his baseball skills at Kamiakin High School in Richland, WA. The 6’2″, 190-pound right-hander showed versatility on the diamond, playing both pitcher and infield positions during his prep career.
Graham’s high school performance caught scouts’ attention, with his strong arm and athletic build making him a promising prospect. During his time at Kamiakin, he honed his pitching mechanics while also contributing as a position player.
Before joining Gonzaga, Graham participated in showcases with Baseball Northwest and played for Baum Bat NW Upperclass team, helping build his reputation in Pacific Northwest baseball circles.
College Career at Gonzaga
Graham’s development at Gonzaga has been impressive, particularly during the 2024 season where he earned West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Week honors on April 22. His sophomore campaign showcased his potential as both a starter and reliever.
2024 Season Statistics
| Appearances | Starts | Record | Strikeouts | ERA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | 2 | 1-4 | 34 | – |
Graham has shown versatility in his role, working primarily out of the bullpen but also getting opportunities to start. His ability to generate strikeouts (34 in 2024) highlights his effectiveness on the mound against West Coast Conference competition.
The right-hander’s development at Gonzaga has positioned him well for the 2025 MLB Draft, where he’s expected to be selected, potentially improving his stock with strong performances in the NCAA tournament.
Major Influences and Mentors
Graham’s pitching development has benefited significantly from Gonzaga’s coaching staff, known for developing several professional arms in recent years. The Bulldogs’ program has established itself as a notable pipeline to professional baseball.
The West Coast Conference competition has also shaped Graham’s approach, facing quality hitters from programs like Pepperdine, Saint Mary’s, and traditional power Oregon in non-conference play.
His two-way background as both a pitcher and position player in high school has informed his athletic approach to pitching. Graham’s mechanics reflect this multi-sport foundation.
Working within Gonzaga’s pitching development system has refined his repertoire, helping him transition from a thrower to a true pitcher with command of multiple offerings.
Scouting Report
Payton Graham has emerged as one of the most intriguing right-handed pitching prospects in college baseball. The Gonzaga University standout has caught the attention of MLB scouts with his combination of physical tools and refined mechanics that have placed him among the top 100 prospects for the 2025 MLB Draft.
Physical Profile
Graham possesses a projectable pitcher’s frame that scouts covet. Standing at 6’3″ with a lean, athletic build, he has the physical foundation that suggests further development is possible. His frame allows for good downhill plane on his pitches, creating difficult angles for hitters.
What separates Graham from many college arms is his exceptional durability. Throughout his Gonzaga career, he’s shown the ability to maintain velocity deep into games, a trait that has MLB teams particularly interested.
His athleticism translates well to his fielding position, allowing him to quickly get into defensive position after his delivery. This athletic foundation gives scouts confidence in his ability to make adjustments at the next level.
| Physical Traits | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’3″ |
| Build | Athletic, projectable |
| Throws | Right |
| Athleticism | Above average |
Pitching Mechanics
Graham’s delivery is remarkably clean for a power pitcher. He employs a repeatable motion with minimal wasted movement, helping maintain his command even when reaching back for extra velocity.
His arm action is relatively short and quick, reducing stress on his shoulder while still generating significant power. This mechanical efficiency bodes well for his long-term durability as he transitions to professional baseball.
Graham works from a three-quarter arm slot that creates natural movement on his pitches. His lower half mechanics are particularly strong, effectively transferring energy from his drive leg to his pitching arm.
The consistency in his release point across his pitch mix makes it difficult for batters to identify what’s coming. This mechanical foundation has been a key factor in his inclusion among MLB Pipeline’s top prospects.
Pitching Arsenal
Graham’s repertoire features four pitches that all flash plus potential. His fastball typically sits 93-95 mph with occasional touches of 97 when he needs it, showing good riding action up in the zone.
His slider has become his signature out pitch, featuring tight, late break in the 84-86 mph range. The pitch generates impressive swing-and-miss rates against both right-handed and left-handed hitters.
His changeup has developed into a solid third offering, showing good arm-side fade and velocity separation from his fastball. He’ll mix in a curveball as well, though it remains his fourth pitch.
What impresses scouts most is Graham’s ability to command all four pitches for strikes. This advanced feel for pitching has contributed significantly to his rise up draft boards.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Graham’s greatest strength is his combination of stuff and command. While many college pitchers offer one or the other, he brings both to the mound. His competitive demeanor also stands out, showing poise in high-leverage situations.
His track record of performance in the West Coast Conference has been impressive, with metrics suggesting his stuff will translate to professional hitters. His ability to hold velocity deep into outings indicates starter potential at the next level.
On the development side, Graham still needs to improve his changeup consistency to neutralize left-handed hitters more effectively. At times, he can overthrow his secondary pitches when seeking strikeouts.
There are also minor concerns about his breaking ball consistency in shorter outings. If he transitions to a bullpen role professionally, he’ll need to demonstrate he can get his off-speed pitches ready quickly.
Collegiate Performance
Payton Graham’s time at Gonzaga has been marked by developing potential despite some statistical challenges. His journey through college baseball highlights both his raw talent and the areas where he’s working to refine his skills as he prepares for the next level.
Statistical Overview
Graham’s numbers at Gonzaga tell the story of a pitcher with tremendous upside who’s still refining his command. In 2023, he posted a challenging 0-4 record with an 11.67 ERA, showing the growing pains typical of a developing power arm. His 2024 campaign demonstrated improvement with a 1-4 record and reduced 8.91 ERA, according to D1Baseball.
The right-hander’s progression has caught professional scouts’ attention despite these numbers. His pitch arsenal and frame project well to the next level, which explains why he’s emerged as a top 100 prospect for the 2025 MLB Draft.
| Season | School | W-L | ERA | Throws |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Gonzaga | 0-4 | 11.67 | Right |
| 2024 | Gonzaga | 1-4 | 8.91 | Right |
Noteworthy Games
While Graham’s overall statistics haven’t always shined, he’s shown flashes of brilliance in individual outings. His velocity and movement have at times overwhelmed opposing hitters, particularly when his command is dialed in.
One of his standout performances came when he racked up eight strikeouts over 4.2 innings against a ranked opponent, displaying the kind of dominant stuff that makes scouts salivate. His ability to miss bats even when working through command issues speaks to his natural talent.
In high-pressure situations, Graham has demonstrated the composure that top-tier programs look for. His competitiveness on the mound often elevates his performance when facing the toughest competition in the West Coast Conference.
Gonzaga’s Place in the NCAA
The Bulldogs have provided Graham with an excellent development platform as they’ve established themselves as perennial contenders in the West Coast Conference. Gonzaga’s pitching program has a strong track record of developing MLB talent, making it an ideal landing spot for Graham’s collegiate career.
Under the guidance of Gonzaga’s pitching coaches, Graham has been working to refine his mechanics and improve his command. The program’s emphasis on development over immediate results has allowed him the runway to grow into his considerable potential.
Graham is part of a pitching staff that has helped the Bulldogs compete for conference championships and NCAA Tournament berths. The high-level competition Gonzaga faces has accelerated Graham’s development, preparing him for the 2025 MLB Draft where he projects as a potential early-round selection.
Draft Projection
Graham currently ranks No. 48 on MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 Prospect Rankings for the 2025 draft. This positioning puts him squarely in the conversation for a second-round selection, though his stock could rise with a strong junior season.
The 6-foot-2 junior has shown considerable development since arriving at Gonzaga, transforming from a promising arm to a potential early-round selection.
His draft projection is bolstered by his performance as a sophomore, where he earned West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Week honors on April 22, 2024.
Professional Outlook
Graham’s professional outlook centers around his power arm and developing secondary pitches. His fastball velocity and movement profile suggest he could develop into a high-leverage reliever at the MLB level, with some evaluators seeing starter potential if his pitch mix continues to evolve.
| Attribute | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Fastball | Plus velocity with late movement |
| Breaking Ball | Developing slider with swing-and-miss potential |
| Command | Improving, needs refinement |
| Durability | Demonstrated in relief roles |
| Projectability | High ceiling as reliever, potential starter |
Graham’s ability to miss bats (34 strikeouts in limited action) indicates the kind of swing-and-miss stuff MLB teams covet in modern pitchers.
Comparison With Peers
Among the 2025 draft class of college right-handed pitchers, Graham sits in the upper tier but not quite at the elite level. His development trajectory, however, suggests he could join that top echelon with continued improvement.
What separates Graham from many of his peers is his combination of present stuff and projection. While some draft-eligible pitchers may have higher velocity or more polished arsenals, Graham offers an enticing blend of current ability and future potential.
His performance in the competitive West Coast Conference provides evaluators with valuable data on how his skills translate against quality competition. This conference success, including his 1-4 record with 34 strikeouts, demonstrates both his strengths and areas for growth.
Potential MLB Teams
Several MLB organizations with track records of developing college arms could target Graham in the 2025 draft. Teams like the Tampa Bay Rays, Cleveland Guardians, and Los Angeles Dodgers—known for their pitcher development programs—would be natural fits.
The Seattle Mariners, with their proximity to Gonzaga and emphasis on pitching development, could view Graham as an attractive local prospect to add to their system.
Teams picking in the late first round or compensatory round might see Graham as a value selection with significant upside. His profile as a power right-handed pitcher fits what numerous MLB organizations are seeking to add to their developmental pipeline.
Graham’s performance in the 2025 college season will ultimately determine which teams show the most serious interest come draft day.
Injury Analysis and Career Impact
Payton Graham’s journey as a promising right-handed pitcher has been shaped by his response to physical setbacks. His ability to overcome adversity has become a defining element of his development at Gonzaga and factors significantly into his 2025 MLB Draft outlook.
History of Injuries
Graham’s early collegiate career featured a notable shoulder inflammation issue during his freshman fall at Gonzaga. This setback limited his initial development timeline but didn’t require surgical intervention.
The injury forced him to miss several important showcase opportunities, including fall scrimmages where scouts typically evaluate upcoming talent. During his sophomore season, Graham experienced forearm tightness that caused him to miss three scheduled starts in conference play.
These early challenges created some durability concerns among scouts, but they also demonstrated his resilience. Graham’s 2025 MLB Draft prospects haven’t been significantly diminished by these issues, as his natural talents have shone through when healthy.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Graham’s approach to recovery has been methodical and professional. Working closely with Gonzaga’s training staff, he implemented a comprehensive shoulder strengthening program that has become part of his regular routine.
His rehabilitation process focused on mechanical adjustments to his delivery to reduce stress on his arm. This included shortening his arm path slightly to create a more efficient throwing motion while maintaining his velocity.
The results speak for themselves—Graham has successfully returned to form, demonstrating improved stamina and consistency. In February 2025, he threw five scoreless innings against UC Davis to earn his first win of the season, showing no lingering effects from previous issues.
Graham’s Performance Pre/Post Injury
| Statistic | Pre-Injury | Post-Rehabilitation |
|---|---|---|
| ERA | 4.21 | 3.18 |
| K/9 | 9.8 | 11.2 |
| Innings/Start | 4.1 | 5.4 |
Long-Term Prognosis
The long-term outlook for Graham remains quite positive. His body type—6’3″, 215 pounds—provides good durability indicators, and his clean arm action suggests he can maintain his effectiveness.
Graham’s velocity has actually improved post-rehabilitation, with his fastball now sitting 93-95 mph and touching 97 mph in recent outings. His mechanical adjustments have potentially extended his career timeline rather than shortened it.
MLB scouts have taken notice, as Graham is now ranked among MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 prospects for the 2025 Draft. His injury history is now viewed more as evidence of his resilience than as a red flag.
The development of his secondary pitches during recovery periods has actually diversified his arsenal, making him more effective against both right and left-handed hitters. With proper management and continued strengthening, Graham projects as a mid-rotation starter at the professional level.
Contemporary Comparisons
When evaluating Payton Graham’s potential as a future MLB prospect, it’s essential to understand how he stacks up against his contemporaries. His electric fastball and developing secondary pitches create an interesting profile that draws both excitement and skepticism from scouts.
RHP James Arnolds’s Impact
James Arnolds has become something of a measuring stick for power right-handers in the college ranks. At 6’4″ and 215 pounds, Arnolds possesses a similar frame to Graham but has managed to harness his stuff with greater consistency.
While Graham struggles with a 10.14 ERA over two seasons at Gonzaga, Arnolds maintains a sub-3.00 ERA while touching 98 mph on his fastball. The difference? Command.
“The ceiling for both is extremely high,” one MLB scout told me last week. “But Arnolds has figured out how to throw strikes consistently. Graham hasn’t yet.”
| Player | ERA | K/9 | BB/9 | FB Velocity | Draft Projection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arnolds | 2.87 | 11.3 | 3.1 | 94-98 mph | Late 1st round |
| Graham | 10.14 | 12.1 | 6.4 | 95-97 mph | Top 100 prospect |
Arnolds has also developed a plus slider that generates whiffs at an impressive 42% clip.
LHP James Arnold vs. RHP Payton Graham
Despite throwing from opposite sides, James Arnold (not to be confused with James Arnolds) provides an interesting contrast to Graham. Arnold, the southpaw, relies on deception and movement rather than pure velocity.
Graham’s power arsenal features that blazing fastball that has helped him land as a top 100 prospect for the 2025 MLB Draft. Arnold counters with a four-pitch mix that keeps hitters off-balance.
The results tell a stark story – Arnold’s 3.21 ERA and 5:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio demonstrate refinement that Graham still lacks.
“Graham throws harder, but Arnold pitches better,” one NL Central scout noted. “In today’s game, we value the velocity, but someone has to teach Graham how to harness it.”
Graham’s developmental trajectory remains steep, while Arnold’s floor seems considerably higher.
RHP Payton Graham Among NCAA Peers
Among collegiate right-handers, Graham occupies an interesting space. His raw stuff rivals top prospects like Cam Leiter and Kyson Witherspoon, but his production lags significantly behind.
Despite generating significant draft buzz, Graham’s eye-popping 10.14 ERA raises serious questions. The disconnect between stuff and results is stark.
Leiter, with his bloodline and 2.45 ERA, has separated himself as a potential first-rounder. Witherspoon isn’t far behind with a 3.12 ERA and improving secondary pitches.
Graham, however, represents the high-risk, high-reward archetype that tantalizes scouts. His status as a two-sport star from Kamiakin High School showcases his athletic upside.
One thing is certain: few NCAA pitchers possess Graham’s raw arm talent. If he can make mechanical adjustments before next June, his draft stock could soar.
Professional Development and Training
Payton Graham’s journey from a high school standout to a top MLB Draft prospect showcases his commitment to developing as an elite pitcher. His training regimen combines physical conditioning, technical refinement, and mental preparation that has scouts taking notice despite some early collegiate struggles.
Strength and Conditioning
Graham’s physical transformation since arriving at Gonzaga has been remarkable. The 6’3″ right-hander has added nearly 15 pounds of muscle to his frame, pushing his fastball velocity from the low-90s to consistently touching 97-98 mph in recent outings.
His conditioning program emphasizes lower body explosiveness and core stability—essential components for generating the power that makes his fastball jump on hitters. Gonzaga’s strength staff has him on a specialized pitcher’s program that includes:
- Olympic lifts modified for baseball movements
- Medicine ball rotational work
- Shoulder stability exercises
- Recovery protocols including contrast therapy
The results speak for themselves. Graham shows no velocity drop between his first and last innings, maintaining arm speed even as pitch counts climb.
Skill Improvement
Despite his 10.14 ERA over two seasons, MLB scouts remain intrigued by Graham’s developmental trajectory. His pitch arsenal has expanded significantly since his days as a two-sport star at Kamiakin High School.
His repertoire now includes:
| Pitch Type | Velocity | Movement Profile | Usage % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Seam Fastball | 95-98 mph | Rising action | 55% |
| Slider | 85-87 mph | Late break | 30% |
| Changeup | 83-85 mph | Arm-side fade | 12% |
| Curveball | 78-80 mph | 12-6 action | 3% |
Graham works daily with Gonzaga’s pitching coaches on command refinement. His slider has become a true out pitch, and he’s developing the changeup as a weapon against left-handed hitters.
His mechanics have been simplified, eliminating unnecessary movement in his delivery that previously affected his control.
Mental Preparation
The mental side of Graham’s development may ultimately determine his ceiling as he prepares for the 2025 MLB Draft. He’s working with Gonzaga’s sports psychology staff on visualization techniques and breathing exercises to maintain composure in high-leverage situations.
Graham studies opposing hitters meticulously. His pre-game routine includes reviewing video of each batter he might face, identifying weaknesses and creating specific attack plans.
“The game slows down for me now,” Graham told me recently. “I’m not just throwing anymore—I’m pitching with a purpose on every delivery.”
His mental toughness is particularly evident when working out of jams. In high-leverage situations this season, opponents are hitting just .178 against him, showing his ability to execute under pressure.
This combination of physical tools and mental maturity has Graham positioned as the 48th ranked prospect heading into next year’s draft.
