Shortstop Brenden Farney will be a Golden Bear

Shortstop Brenden Farney has become the latest member of the incoming California baseball recruiting class, joining Chris Paul and Michael Jordan in the class. Here is premium story from BearTerritory.net. However, he is the only one of the three not to decommit from another university. Farney is another infielder on a team that has plenty of them; what does Brenden do that distinguishes himself?

Brenden attended Vacaville high school for his senior season, where the young man hit .487. He also knocked out 5 home runs and showed intriguing power, especially when you’re listed at 5-8. He was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the 33rd round, and might have been drafted higher if not for a strong commitment to our Golden Bears. He’s on campus now, so we don’t have to worry about him spurning the Golden Bears for the professionals.

Brenden, as mentioned earlier, is just 5-8, which limits his power potential in some ways. He can play shortstop, while also sliding in at third. He only made 4 errors his senior season, which is pretty good at the high school level. As mentioned, he’s not going to hit for big home run power, but he can surprise you with his pop, like current Bear Tony Renda. Farney hits from the left side, making him a valuable threat in a platoon against right handers. Has the ability to hit the ball to both fields with a line drive swing. More of a doubles hitter, which is better than swinging for the fences with the current bats. Average speed.

With Campbell, Renda, Delfino, and Rodriguez all coming back on the infield, plus Chris Paul entering the fold, it’s unlikely that Farney finds significant playing time early on. His best chance to get on the field is as a pinch hitter or defensive replacement, and make the most of his time there. In the future, he should be able to find time when some roles open up, likely when Farney is entering his sophomore campaign.

It’s very encouraging to see the Bears recruit well, especially given Dave Esquer’s uncertain contract status and the cutting of the program which was reversed a few months ago. Given the circumstances, getting three high quality prospects is great news. Hopefully Farney ends up being a high-quality starter in the future. Go Bears!