Chase Ruden is giving Santa Clara a live, low-ERA right arm with starter upside
In the 2026 season, Santa Clara true freshman Chase Ruden has flashed immediate poise in relief, posting a 1.93 ERA with 9 strikeouts across 9.1 innings while holding hitters to a .66 WHIP; the Broncos also note he’s already handled multiple scoreless outings, including a two-inning shutout stretch against Cal. His appeal goes beyond the line score: recruiting notes describe a four-pitch mix, a low-90s fastball, a high-spin curveball, a tight slider, and a changeup that tunnels well, with weekend-starter projection and a reputation for getting better every time he pitches.
