Ryan Weathers, born December 27, 1999, is an American professional baseball pitcher currently playing in the Miami Marlins organization. He’s the son of former MLB pitcher David Weathers, a veteran of 19 seasons in the major leagues, giving Ryan a deep understanding of the game from a young age.
Weathers was drafted seventh overall by the San Diego Padres in the 2018 Major League Baseball draft after a stellar high school career at Loretto High School in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee. He quickly signed with the Padres, foregoing his commitment to Vanderbilt University. This high draft position came on the heels of Weathers’ standout performance as a two-way player in high school, showcasing both his pitching prowess and hitting ability. While his hitting skills were notable, he was drafted primarily for his potential on the mound.
His professional career began in 2018, and he progressed steadily through the Padres’ minor league system. He spent time with the Arizona League Padres, the Fort Wayne TinCaps, and the Lake Elsinore Storm, demonstrating a solid fastball-changeup combination that impressed scouts. Weathers was known for his maturity on the mound and his ability to command his pitches effectively, especially for a young player.
Weathers made his major league debut in dramatic fashion during the 2020 National League Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This was a highly unusual debut, skipping the traditional minor league progression to contribute to a playoff run. While it was a brief appearance, it highlighted the Padres’ faith in his potential and composure under pressure. He pitched one and a third innings, allowing one hit and striking out one batter.
He continued to pitch for the Padres in 2021, making 30 appearances, including 15 starts. This season provided valuable experience, allowing him to adjust to the major league level and refine his pitching repertoire. He posted a 4-7 record with a 5.32 ERA, showcasing his potential but also revealing areas where he needed improvement, primarily consistency and control.
In 2023, Weathers was traded to the Miami Marlins in exchange for Garrett Cooper. This move presented a fresh start for Weathers, offering him an opportunity to revitalize his career in a new environment. The Marlins hoped that a change of scenery and a different coaching staff could unlock the full potential that made him a highly touted prospect. He began his time with the Marlins in their minor league system, working on refining his mechanics and pitch selection.
Weathers is primarily a fastball-changeup pitcher, relying on command and movement to induce weak contact. He’s also worked on developing a slider to add another dimension to his arsenal. His success at the major league level will depend on his ability to improve his consistency, location, and command of all his pitches. He possesses the raw talent and baseball pedigree to succeed; the challenge now lies in harnessing that potential and solidifying his place as a reliable major league starting pitcher. His journey continues with the Marlins organization, and his progress is watched closely by fans and analysts alike.