2026 MLB Draft: Cooper Sides, RHP, Orange Lutheran

2026 MLB Draft: Cooper Sides, RHP, Orange Lutheran

Player: Cooper Sides
School: Orange Lutheran (CA)Position(s): RHP
Height: 6’5″Weight: 210 lbs.Bats: RightThrows: Right
Summary:
Loose and whippy with projection left, Sides already sits in the low-to-mid 90s and has touched 95. The fastball comes easy out of a long 6-foot-5 frame, carrying well through the zone with late hop. He repeats a clean operation that allows him to land strikes consistently, giving the heater a chance to play up as velocity continues to climb toward the upper 90s.

The breaking ball mix gives him multiple shapes to lean on. His slider works in the mid-80s with tight bite and out-pitch potential, while the curveball spins with more depth to change hitters’ eye levels. A firm changeup at 84–88 rounds out the repertoire, flashing late fade and showing comfort in the bottom of the zone. He’s shown the ability to throw all four for strikes, sequencing with the feel of a pitcher rather than just a thrower.

With size, looseness, and an advanced mix, Sides projects as a high-upside starter. The foundation is already strong, and further strength gains could push the fastball velocity higher while sharpening the quality of his breaking pitches. It’s a polished, projectable profile that fits the mold of an early-round right-hander.

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