Brett Renfrow, a 6‑foot‑3, 220‑pound right‑hander from Manassas, Virginia, heard his name called in the 2026 MLB Draft when the Minnesota Twins selected him with the 74th overall pick. The selection marks the culmination of a rapid rise that saw the junior pitcher become a cornerstone of Virginia Tech’s rotation.
Renfrow’s journey to the draft began at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School, where he honed his repertoire of fastballs and breaking pitches. At Virginia Tech, he made history by becoming the first freshman ever to start on opening day for the Hokies, a testament to his immediate impact and the coaching staff’s confidence in his abilities.
A Freshman Sensation
During the 2024 season, Renfrow started 15 games, posting a 6‑4 record and a 4.92 ERA while striking out 78 batters over 75 innings. The following year he improved his strikeout rate, fanning 84 batters in 74 innings with a 3.89 ERA despite a 3‑7 record. In his most recent collegiate campaign, he again started every game, finishing 5‑4 with a 4.64 ERA and 88 strikeouts in 73.2 innings, underscoring his consistency as a strikeout pitcher.
Scouts have praised Renfrow’s poise on the mound and his ability to command a fastball that reaches the high 90s, complemented by a sharp breaking ball that has kept hitters off balance throughout his three‑year collegiate stint. His physical presence and competitive edge have drawn comparisons to established major‑league right‑handers, positioning him as a promising addition to the Twins’ pitching depth.
Looking Ahead
The Minnesota Twins organization will now guide Renfrow through the minor‑league system, focusing on refining his command and expanding his pitch mix as he transitions to professional competition. For Virginia Tech, his departure signals the end of an era in which a freshman could command the opening‑day lineup, leaving a legacy that future pitchers will aim to emulate.