6-foot-5 Pepperdine outfielder with intriguing left-handed pop and speed
In the 2026 season, Johnny Backus has flashed upside in a small sample for Pepperdine, hitting .200 with a .429 on-base percentage and .600 slugging percentage while already recording a triple and showing patience with two walks in just five games. The 6-foot-5, left-handed hitter brings a rare mix of size, athleticism, and gap power, and Pepperdine’s roster notes also point to his strong college-ready offensive pedigree. He looks like a developmental fit for a team that values ceiling, versatility, and an outfielder who can grow into real impact once the bat settles in.
