Brandt, a Raleigh, NC native and a graduate of East Carolina University was drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 18th round of the 2012 MLB June Amateur Draft. The southpaw started the 2014 season with High-Class A Port Charlotte Stone Crabs and compiled a 3-2 record and a 1.17 ERA in 54 innings of work. After 30 games, Brandt was called up to the Double-A Montgomery Biscuits where he made six appearances last season.

The former 2014 Florida State League All-Star was a two-time All-Conference USA performer and Freshman All-Selection in 2009 at East Carolina. He was one of five Pirates to be selected in the 2012 Major League Baseball Draft.