With an extremely talented pool of pitchers to choose from, the Somerset Patriots have established both a strong and consistent roster. Utilizing a mixture of strength and precision, it’s safe to say the Patriots have a great group of guys to work with. Although it is early in the season, these players have drawn many eyes these past few weeks.
Chase Chaney has been the team’s go-to all season, establishing an extremely strong presence on the mound. He has pitched a total of 22.1 innings, the most on the team, and has earned 16 strikeouts. One of his strengths he brings is his insane amount of control, evident with his 2.42 ERA and 1.07 WHIP. Many could say Chaney is the backbone of the rotation, utilizing his consistency to keep opponents from scoring.
The 2025 South Atlantic League Pitcher of the Year, Kyle Carr, is not one to look past. Upholding a 1.96 ERA over 119.1 innings last year, Carr was a menace for the Hudson Valley Renegades. This year, he has achieved similar success and earned 19 strikeouts in 16 innings. Carr’s greatest weapon is his fastball that constantly reaches 91-95 mph, and occasionally the high 90s. Not only that, but as a lefty, he uses a sneaky slider and a variety of tricks to add a strategic edge to his game.
When walking up to the plate, Trent Sellers is probably one of the last people batters want to see. Leading the team with 27 strikeouts in 16.2 innings, he has become highly feared by opponents. Not only that, but last season he also led the team with 111 strikeouts over 22 starts. With that outstanding performance, he earned an Eastern League Pitcher of the Week award in late July. As one of the strongest on the team, expectations for Sellers this season are extremely high.
Mississippi State alumnus Cade Smith is the powerhouse of the group. In 18.2 innings pitched, Smith has upheld an ERA of 5.30 and has earned a whopping 22 strikeouts. As he began his first full season with the team, he has left a mark on the field with his skills. Similar to Carr, his strength is unmatched, with a fastball that often ends in strikeouts, and a low release point that constantly leaves batters puzzled at the plate.
Will Brian is arguably one of the most reliable relief pitchers in the league right now. Nearly untouchable, Brian has managed a 0.71 ERA across 12.2 innings. Not only that, but he has also racked up 19 strikeouts with a 0.79 WHIP. His efficiency on the mound is unlike any other, serving as the ultimate safety net for the team. Ever since his debut with the Patriots in 2025, he has been their go-to guy, ending the year with a 2.48 ERA across 29 games. Although it is early in the season, Brian has yet to be stopped and shows no signs of it happening anytime soon.
At 6-foot-5 and 255 pounds, Ben Hess already asserts dominance before he even touches the mound. Hess was a first-round pick from Alabama back in 2024 for the New York Yankees and has certainly lived up to it. He has spent some time in Somerset now, but is currently the #5 prospect for the Yankees. This season, Hess has posted a 3.52 ERA in 7.2 innings and a whopping 14 strikeouts. With his large frame and a fastball that averages in the mid-90s, it’s hard to get past him. Despite being on the injured list since April 18, he is expected to return shortly.
Whether it’s returning leaders like Chaney or the newbies like Hess, the variety of strengths in pitching for the Somerset Patriots will be key as their season continues on. If these past few weeks prove anything, it’s that the future of the Patriots is in good hands.
Watch them play today against the Portland Sea Dogs at 6:35 pm EDT!
