Harold Hutchison

If there is one player group where the “overlooked” prospects are not-so-overlooked, it is in the bullpen. Just about every season sees the Brewers bring up some nugget who provides crucial contributions to the team out of the bullpen. At least one such nugget has made his MLB debut for the Brewers. Who could the other nuggets in the future be? Image courtesy of Wisconsin Timber Rattlers There were several contenders over the offseason. Lucas Erceg was traded to Oakland, where he’s struggled as a MLB reliever, and Pablo Garabitos is also gone, released after a stint on the 60-day injured list. Let’s look at how they have fared. All stats are as of August 5. Right-Handed Relief Pitchers Michele Vassalotti, Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+) 0-0, 6.83 ERA, 0 saves, 29 innings pitched, 26 walks, 37 strikeouts Vassalotti has had a 2023 to forget, but is still striking out almost four batters every three innings. His walk rate went up this year, and he added six hit batters to the mix and uncorked seven wild pitches. He will be looking to rebound after a rough season James Meeker, Biloxi Shuckers (AA) 6-3. 3.31 ERA, 1 save, 65.1 innings pitched, 7 walks, 57 strikeouts Meeker might be 28 years old, but he has had a major breakout in Biloxi, and this was after a superb 2022 run. He moved to the rotation earlier this year after injuries to starting pitchers Brandon Knarr and Adam Seminaris and has locked it down. It could be an interesting offseason as the Brewers decide whether to keep him in the rotation, or to return him to a shut-down relief option. Jeison Pena, Carolina Mudcats (A) 4-2, 6.75 ERA, 1 save, 38.2 innings pitched, 21 walks, 41 strikeouts Pena has still been racking up the strikeouts, but he has given up four homers in just under 39 innings, which has hit his ERA hard. He’s also been pretty wild on the mound, with nine hit batters and seven wild pitches. He’s only 20, though, and there is plenty of time for him to develop. Quinton Low, Carolina Mudcats (A) - Two-Way Player 1-3, 4.26 ERA, 0 saves, 31.2 innings pitched, 26 walks, 46 strikeouts .207/.324/.345 in 29 AB with 1 double, 1 home run, 5 walks, 11 strikeouts Like Meeker, Low is making a move to the rotation – at least for now. Low has been hard to hit for the most part, allowing only 5.4 hits per nine innings, and punching out nearly three batters every two innings. The big issue is when pitches get away from him – he’s uncorked 12 wild pitches and hit four batters. He also is a potential force at the plate, but has only had 29 at-bats. The Brewers always can use relievers, but how rare is it to have one who would also be a credible option at first base or designated hitter? Overview The going has been rough for some of the right-handed prospects, while others are seeing time in the starting rotation. Meeker and Low both have potential to dominate – Meeker with outstanding control and Low with sheer stuff, while Vassalotti and Pena will look to turn things around in 2024. Left-Handed Relievers Clayton Andrews, Nashville Sounds (AAA)/Milwaukee Brewers (MLB) 3-1, 3.59 ERA, 4 saves, 42.2 innings pitched, 26 walks, 56 strikeouts 2018 17th-round pick Andrews has taken his spot on the Nashville-Milwaukee shuffle, completing a comeback after struggling with injuries in 2021 and 2022. Pre-pandemic, he not only appeared to be a poor man’s Josh Hader, but even saw time in center field for 16 games. Karlos Morales, Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+) 4-4, 4.71 ERA, 2 saves, 42 innings pitched, 34 walks, 46 strikeouts Morales has had some struggles adjusting, but still has been quite solid, striking out more than a batter an inning. Control is an issue, with 34 walks and eight wild pitches hurting his cause on the mound. He’s given up only three home runs, though, and gives up just under seven hits per nine innings pitched. Darrell Thompson, Biloxi Shuckers (AA)/Nashville Sounds (AAA) - New 3-4, 4.60 ERA, 1 save, 43 innings pitched, 17 walks, 60 strikeouts Another older prospect, Thompson broke out in Biloxi earlier this year, and while he’s come down to earth somewhat in Nashville, he’s still racking up some good numbers overall, and could be a credible option in 2024. Justin King, Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+) - New 1-1, 3.22 ERA, 0 saves, 22.1 innings pitched, 14 walks, 42 strikeouts King is a bit old for High-A ball, but the numbers are not lying. He’s been punching out hitters and emerging as a legit prospect, like James Meeker has. While he’s giving up nine hits every ten innings, part of that is due to an absurdly high .452 BABIP. If those are numbers when he’s unlucky, just imagine when things regress to the norm, Overview Andrews has become another late-round hit for the Brewers, while King and Morales both are flashing potential. Thompson could be the left-handed equivalent to James Meeker for the Crew. View full article

I wouldn't dismiss Meeker, despite the advanced age. He can be a cheap, effective rotation option, and he's dominated in the pen.

I always felt he had that Ichiro/early Molitor skill set, and that is probably what he should stick with. His plate discipline is something that will also serve him well as a leadoff hitter.

It's generally a recap of those before the season, but I did add Hernandez and Flores. Hernandez is going to be scary good when he fills out.

Brewers fans are rightly excited about the rise of prospects like Jacob Misiorowski and Carlos F. Rodriguez in 2023. Both look to be crucial contributors in the years ahead, just as Corbin Burnes, Brandon Woodruff, and Freddy Peralta have in the rotation. However, there are a lot of pitchers who can be overlooked. Image courtesy of Joshua Sumrall, Biloxi Shuckers When one considers that each minor-league team will have at least a five-man rotation (or even six), that leaves a lot of starts to be made in a given season. In the past, there have been folks who emerged almost from nowhere to fill a rotation role in the majors – like Brent Suter. But how have some of the more “overlooked” prospects fared? Right-Handed Starters Max Lazar, Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+)/Biloxi Shuckers (AA) 1-4, 3.20 ERA, 56.1 innings pitched, 14 walks, 59 strikeouts Lazar has spent most of his 2023 bounce-back season in the bullpen, but returned recently to the rotation in Biloxi. Perhaps the best sign? In Biloxi, he’s struck out 11.1 batters per nine innings as of August 5th, a sign that he is returning to pre-pandemic form. Staying healthy and building up his endurance will be crucial in 2023 and 2024. Kevin Briceno, Arizona Complex League Brewers (R) On the 60-day injured list all season Briceno will have to bounce back from injury wrecking 2023, which is a big disappointment for himself – and for Brewers fans, who saw a lot to like in his 2022 numbers. At 20, he still has a lot of baseball in him, though, and should not be counted out. Cameron Wagoner, Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+) 3-11, 7.05 ERA, 75.1 innings pitched, 29 walks, 63 strikeouts Wagoner has remained healthy this season, which may be the one positive he can draw from an otherwise forgettable 2023 season. Virtually every ratio has gone the wrong way for him this year, and the big question is how he will react in 2024. Corbin Burnes had a similar rough year in 2019, and turned out just fine, and Waggoner is only 22. Melvin Hernandez, DSL Brewers 2 (FRk) - New 2-2, 2.48 ERA, 29 innings pitched, 7 walks, 23 strikeouts Some of the numbers might not be eye-popping, but Hernandez is just 16 years old, and he’s racking up a relatively low WHIP (1.14), has allowed only one home run (in a league where he has to face off against fellow Brewers farmhand Yophery Rodriguez of the DSL Brewers 1), and he’s striking out 3.3 batters for every walk. Overview Lazar’s comeback looks like it is going well, and he could, if back to form, be a contender for the 2025 Brewers MLB roster. Briceno and Waggoner will have to rebound from adversity. Hernandez could be a very exciting pitcher, already showing excellent control at a very young age. Left-Handed Starters Brandon Knarr, Biloxi Shuckers (AA) 0-2, 8.25 ERA, 12.0 innings pitched, 9 walks, 19 strikeouts – currently on 60-day injured list Knarr had a rough start to the season, then went on the injured list, joining Adam Seminaris and relievers Harold Chirinos and Justin Yeager. Prior to his injury, Knarr had kicked his strikeout rate way up, albeit the walk rates were also up in the very small sample size. However, this can likely be attributed to the injury, and he should be able to rebound in 2024. Anfernny Reyes, Arizona Complex League Brewers (R) 2-2, 5.18 ERA, 24.1 innings pitched, 10 walks, 35 strikeouts Reyes has only seen action out of the bullpen so far this season. Despite the high ERA, the peripheral numbers (WHIP, opposing batting average and OPS) look quite solid for the 19-year-old in his first season in the United States. He’s had five hit batsmen and seven wild pitches, this year. Osbriel Mogollon, Arizona Complex League Brewers (R) 2-2, 3.74 ERA, 33.2 innings pitched, 21 walks, 37 strikeouts Mogollon’s strikeout rate has dipped a little, but he is still avoiding the home run ball (1 in 33 2/3 IP as of August 5). He’s split time between the bullpen and the rotation for Maryvale. One notable stat: No wild pitches or hit batters as of August 5, which is pretty incredible for the ACL. Anthony Flores, DSL Brewers 1 (FRk) - New 1-2, 3.44 ERA, 36.2 innings pitched, 16 walks, 43 strikeouts Flores has been racking up the strikeouts – almost 11 per nine innings – and he’s avoided the gopher ball so far in the DSL, giving up just one home run as of August 5. Opponents haven’t even cracked the Uecker Line against him when he’s on the mound. Overview Reyes and Mogollon are showing some very promising signs in the low minors, which could bear fruit for the Brewers sooner rather than later. Knarr’s injury is a setback, but the Crew – and Knarr – will be hoping for a 2024 rebound. Flores, though, is showing some real potential in the DSL. Next: Relief Pitchers View full article

Tyler BlackSal FrelickAbner UribeJeferson QueroYophery RodriguezJackson ChourioJuan BaezRobert GasserJacob MisiorowskiCam DevanneyMike BoeveBrock WilkenLuis LaraCarlos F RodriguezEric BitontiCooper PrattLuke AdamsDemetrio NadalMelvin HernandezRobert Moore

There are a lot of very talented infielders in the Brewers system playing second base, third base, and shortstop, particularly after the astonishing success the Brewers had in inking 18 out of 21 draft picks this July. That being said, it never hurts to look beyond the big names – and in this position group, there is a very big example of why that is important. Image courtesy of Mike Krebs, Biloxi Shuckers After considering some overlooked catchers and first basemen yesterday, today we move around and cover the rest of the infield. Again, the purpose of these articles to to recognize players that are not deemed Top 20 prospects by Brewer Fanatic or MLB Pipeline. Which of these players are under-ranked or underrated? Since the last time we looked at this group, there have been several roster changes. Zack Raabe was a surprising pre-season release, and prior to the season, the highly-versatile Weston Wilson signed with the Phillies as a minor-league free agent. Let’s look over the group, with stats as of August 5. Second Base Felix Valerio, Biloxi Shuckers (AA) .224/.289/.314 in 210 at-bats with 6 doubles, 3 home runs, 16 walks and 46 strikeouts Prior to Double-A, Valerio had been a top prospect with his bat. He’s struggled the last two seasons, but he is still only 22, and could turn things around. However, he faces a tough row to hoe as other prospects have entered the system and flashed real potential. Jadher Areinamo, Carolina Mudcats (A) - New .295/.320/.370 in 292 at-bats with 13 doubles, 3 home runs, 12 walks and 37 strikeouts Areinamo has flashed a strong hit-for-average tool in the Carolina League, and added a fair amount of doubles in the process. His on-base skills could use refinement, but he’s struck out less than 13 percent of the time. Dylan O’Rae, Arizona Complex League Brewers (R) - New .351/.522/.404 in 114 at-bats with 4 doubles, no home runs, 37 walks and 21 strikeouts O’Rae has emerged as an OBP god in Maryvale, adding some significant speed (25-for27 in stolen bases) in addition to the ability to draw walks and hit for average. Overview The emergence of Areinamo and O’Rae in 2023 is a good sign for the Brewers, who have already had some players in the MLB.com Pipeline Top 30 and Brewer Fanatic Top 20 at this position. Valerio will face a big “prove it” season in 2024. Shortstop Andruw Monasterio, Nashville Sounds (AAA)/Milwaukee Brewers (MLB) .280/.395/.394 in 294 at-bats with 15 doubles, 5 home runs, 49 walks and 57 strikeouts Monasterio could arguably be Milwaukee’s rookie of the year – even with the competition from Brice Turang, Joey Wiemer, and now Sal Frelick. While he mostly played shortstop in Nashville, he’s handled second base and third base in the majors, and done so well the Brewers dealt Luis Urias. He is a classic example of why one should not just focus on the consensus top prospects list. Eduardo Garcia, Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+) .196/.270/.309 in 265 at-bats with 10 doubles, 4 home runs, 24 walks and 95 strikeouts Garcia’s on-base skills have improved somewhat, but he’s still struggling at the plate. His defense at shortstop remains superb, even as he has spent a lot of time at third base this season – at least when Eric Brown Jr. was healthy. Ethan Murray, Biloxi Shuckers (AA) - New .253/.367/.384 in 237 at-bats, with 11 doubles, 6 home runs, 40 walks and 60 strikeouts Murray has been less-heralded than teammate Freddy Zamora, but his OPS of .751 is actually slightly higher than Zamora’s in 2023. Murray’s OBP skills are quite strong, and his glovework has not been questioned much. Daniel Guilarte, Carolina Mudcats (A)/Arizona Complex League Brewers (R) - New .305/.398/.345 in 197 at-bats, with 4 doubles, no home runs, 28 walks and 50 strikeouts Guilarte has hit for average, drawn walks, and stolen a bunch of bases in Carolina before an injury threw him off track. Still, he’s an intriguing option at shortstop in a system that has a lot of them. Juan Baez, Arizona Complex League Brewers (R) - New .393/.411/.620 in 150 at-bats with 14 doubles, 4 home runs, 4 walks, and 18 strikeouts Baez’s offensive profile looks a lot like that of Jackson Chourio, who rocketed from Carolina to Biloxi at age 18 in 2022, only he is a bat-first shortstop. Like Chourio, his OBP skills need refinement, but the low strikeout rate and the power at this age is very tantalizing. Overview Beyond the top prospect lists, the Brewers have plenty of very capable players at shortstop, some of whom could arguably eclipse those seen as “top prospects.” Monasterio’s development into a solid Mark Loretta-esque player may be a preview of what’s coming, especially when looking at the exciting Baez. Third Base Zavier Warren, Biloxi Shuckers (AA) .214/.303/.373 in 271 at-bats, with 11 doubles, 10 home runs, 33 walks and 65 strikeouts Warren has seen some significant time at third base this season, but mostly has played first base due to Tyler Black’s emergence at the hot corner. Warren has seen action across the infield in his professional career, though, and given the general struggles players in the Southern League had, is worth a long look in 2024. Demetrio Nadal, DSL Brewers 2 (FRk) - New .352/.492/.573 in 82 at-bats with 6 doubles, 2 home runs, 18 walks and 10 strikeouts Yes, the Brewers added Brock Wilken, Mike Boeve, and Eric Bitonti in the 2023 draft, but Nadal has been making a case that he is the best third-base prospect in the low minors, with some pop, speed, the ability to hit for average, and excellent plate discipline. Overview Warren could easily end up a bench player in the majors due to his solid OBP skills, power, and versatility. That said, the relatively unheralded Nadal is likely to be every bit as good as the players the Brewers selected in the high rounds of the draft this year. Next: Outfielders View full article

What has made Andruw Monasterio, of all the prospects in the farm system, so valuable for the Brewers this season? Image courtesy of © Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports Andruw Monasterio has made himself a fixture of the 2023 Milwaukee Brewers, seeing action at second base, third base, and shortstop. The top-line numbers show one reason why: Monasterio’s .288 batting average is just behind Christian Yelich for the team lead – the big difference being Monasterio is not likely to qualify on that stat due to having only 153 at-bats as of August 13. His OPS+ of 113 is quite good, coming in fifth among those players on the 26-man roster. His .772 OPS is also fifth. Memorable Outbursts His performance in the early August series against the Rockies was memorable: He hit two home runs in that series that tied the game or put the Brewers ahead, had multiple hits in two games, and he won the last game of the series by reaching on an error in the bottom of the tenth inning, allowing Mark Canha to score. Before that, he collected two hits. He also went off in a series at Philadelphia, starting all three games, and collecting multiple hits in each of them, helping the Crew take two out of three in that set. The game against the Rockies on August 9th was emblematic of Monaterio's breakout season. He went 2-for-5 with a single, homer, reached on an error, struck out, and popped out. The single came on a seven-pitch plate appearance; the strikeout took five pitches. During those two at-bats, he fouled off four pitches, still making contact. He can draw out an at-bat, but he’s also not afraid to go for it if he thinks he’s got a good pitch to hit. His home run in the fifth came on pitch two. The final at-bat was Monasterio making good contact on the first pitch. Background Monasterio was an international free agent from Venezuela signed by the Cubs in 2014. In 2018, the Cubs dealt him to the Washington Nationals as part of the deal for Daniel Murphy – who couldn’t quite get the Cubs past Game 163 against the Crew that year. That off-season, he was part of a deal between the Nationals and the Cleveland Indians, which sent Yan Gomes to Washington. After 2021, he became a minor-league free agent and signed with the Brewers, where he emerged as one of the overlooked prospects in my review after the 2022 season. Monasterio got his break this season due to a pair of injuries. One was infielder Luis Urias’s hamstring injury on Opening Day. Joey Wiemer was called up, and Brian Anderson ended up playing a lot of third base. After Willy Adames suffered a concussion after a scary incident involving a line drive, Monasterio was called up to Milwaukee. He’s stuck around since after a hot start due to the offensive struggles of Urias and Brice Turang. Since then, Monasterio has played 25 games at third base, 18 at second base, five at shortstop, and four as the designated hitter. During his time up with Milwaukee, he’s collected 42 hits, with nine doubles and three home runs, counting his back-to-back blasts in the last two games of the series against the Rockies. Where He Stands Out Overall, Monasterio has stood out in two ways: The first, as seen from his top line numbers, is the fact that he has done well hitting for average and getting on base. This has been rare for the Brewers, who are last in the National League in batting average with .234 and 13th in OBP with .313 as of August 13. Willy Adames, Turang, Anderson, Joey Wiemer, and Rowdy Tellez have all been struggling in that regard as everyday position players. But the other value Monasterio has provided is in his splits. He is posting a .969 OPS against left-handed pitchers. That’s right, folks; the 2023 Brewers have a lefty-killer who slashes .357/.457/.513 for an OPS+ of 165 on their roster. Against righties, he is still pretty solid and posts a decent .711 OPS, for a 96 OPS+, with an OBP of .333. Monasterio Looks Like Loretta, Only Better In short, Monasterio is a valuable player for the Brewers this season and likely is staying in Milwaukee. But could he have a long-term future? Believe it or not, his general offensive profile looks like a Brewer from 25 years ago: Mark Loretta. During his eight years in Milwaukee, Loretta slashed .289/.355/.385 for an OPS+ of 92. During his 796 games over those eight seasons, he hit 135 doubles and 29 homers while stealing 22 bases in 41 attempts. Monasterio is actually exceeding Loretta as a stolen base threat, stealing five bases in six attempts so far, and he has nine doubles and three homers to date. His 162-game projection from BaseballReference.com is for 30 doubles and ten homers. His OBP skills are also pretty good, taking 19 walks in 153 at-bats, compared to Loretta’s 247 walks in 2,596 at-bats over eight years. He does strike out more than Loretta did, though. With all that taken into consideration, Monasterio looks to be a valuable bench asset, at the very least for the Brewers through 2023, if not longer. He would be a stopgap option should Adames be traded or injured and a very reliable substitute for any infielder. Monasterio’s emergence this season is on the same level as the defensive contributions of Turang and Wiemer and Sal Frelick’s offensive spark among the 2023 Brewers rookie class. View full article

Moving on in our look at the overlooked prospects in the Brewers farm system, we come to the outfield. One might argue that these prospects aren’t so much overlooked as entirely forgotten, although some new faces are emerging. How have they fared this season? Image courtesy of Curt Hogg / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK The fact is, several of these prospects could still emerge as major-league players, or provide valuable sweeteners in a deal to improve the Crew over the offseason. Let's run them down. All stats are as of August 5. Left Field Tristen Lutz, Biloxi Shuckers (AA) .227/.352/.387 in 150 at-bats with 6 doubles, 6 home runs, 26 walks and 62 strikeouts Lutz, once a premier prospect, has settled in as a solid one with a “three true outcomes” bat. He’s been bypassed by Jackson Chourio and Joey Wiemer in the system and was released August 9, but that doesn’t mean he is washed up, being only 24 years old. Noah Campbell, Biloxi Shuckers (AA)/Nashville Sounds (AAA) .258/.384/.429 in 233 at-bats with 10 doubles, 8 home runs, 44 walks and 67 strikeouts Campbell has quietly emerged as a low-wattage prospect for the Brewers. He’s played all over the diamond, is a switch-hitter, and shows signs of Andruw Monasterio-esque offensive ability. His ceiling isn’t that of Chourio or Tyler Black, but it isn’t going to be an embarrassment, either. Brian Sanchez, DSL Brewers 1 (Rookie) .326/.440/.500 in 86 at-bats with 7 doubles, no home runs, 18 walks and 21 strikeouts Yophery Rodriguez is getting the hype, flashing an offensive skillset like Chourio’s. However, Sanchez has emerged as a credible prospect himself in the DSL. He’s shown speed (4 triples and 8 stolen bases) during his tenure in left field. Further development could see some doubles and triples end up as home runs. Overview Lutz has had some struggles since the pandemic, but is not a bad prospect. Campbell is making a strong case for a 40-man roster spot, and to be in the mix for a 2024 roster spot in Milwaukee as a bench asset. Sanchez has an exciting bat and OBP skills, and could force his way into the Brewers outfield picture in a few years. Center Field Joe Gray, Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+)/Biloxi Shuckers (AA) .225/.284/.360 in 356 at-bats with 13 doubles, 11 home runs, 23 walks, and 103 strikeouts Like Lutz, Gray was a heralded prospect who has been forgotten due to the rise of talents like Chourio and Wiemer. Gray’s best tools are his defense and power, and at the age of 23, he still has a lot of baseball left in him. To get to the big leagues, though, he'll obviously need to cut down his strikeout rate and get on base more consistently. Right Field Hedbert Perez, Carolina Mudcats (A) .216/.288/.345 in 232 at-bats with 10 doubles, 6 home runs, 22 walks and 68 strikeouts Perez has gone backward, but still has time to get back on track if his skills can catch up to his tools. The OBP skills have taken another tick upward, and the strikeouts have gone down a little from 2022 for the 20-year-old, who is developing a bit slower than some other prospects have. Luis Castillo, Arizona Complex League Brewers (R)/Carolina Mudcats (A) .272/.357/.383 in 81 at-bats with 6 doubles, 1 home run, 13 walks and 27 strikeouts Castillo is just 19 years old, and he hasn’t been on the field much, but the OBP skills and some power have still been there. He’s posting solid numbers, and would not be a bad prospect in most cases… but it’s hard to be a nugget when there are so many gems. Hendry Mendez, Arizona Complex League Brewers (R), Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+) .244/.306/.348 in 135 at-bats with 6 doubles, 2 home runs, 12 walks and 20 strikeouts Mendez has missed time with injury this season. He’s still flashing solid OBP skills when healthy, and he is only 19 years old. The real question will center around if he can fix his swing and take advantage of his physique. Overview The 2023 season has been rough for Castillo and Mendez, but Perez is on a good trend with the walks and strikeouts, and there is a chance he could put things together in 2024. None are old enough to have a post-game beer, so there is plenty of baseball left in them. Next: Starting Pitching View full article

There is always the choice to add him to the 40-man roster.

Has the time come to rearrange bullpen roles, at least temporarily? Image courtesy of Ken Blaze, USA Today Following the surrender of back-to-back home runs in the seventh inning of what became an eventual 7-3 loss to the Colorado Rockies, some Brewers fans are wondering why Elvis Peguero is still being sent out to handle late innings when there is a narrow lead and Abner Uribe is in Milwaukee. The Peguero Track Record On the one hand, Peguero has been quite solid in the bullpen for the Crew this season. He is 2-4 with a 3.86 ERA in 46 2/3 innings pitched with 18 walks and 41 strikeouts. He has secured one save and 15 “holds” along the way. That’s not a horrible performance, and Peguero is relatively cheap through 2026, and doesn’t become a free agent until three years after that. On the other hand, there are four blown saves, three of which have come since July 22, two came in the span of eight days. The last two blown saves, against the Nationals on July 31 and the Rockies Tuesday, arguably have made it harder for the Crew to maintain their lead in the National League Central over the Cubs and Reds. This isn’t to say Peguero is a liability, far from it. He was quite good through July 21. But the 17-day stretch from July 23 to August 8 has been far different. In eight appearances, he has pitched 7 2/3 innings, given up eight runs (all earned). He has allowed three home runs and blown three saves, all of which led to losses. To put some more perspective, prior to that 17-day stretch, he had only given up one home run and 13 runs (12 earned). This stretch has shown that Peguero may need to either make some adjustments in a lower-leverage role or to have a mental “reset” after a rough stretch. It’s not like the Brewers don’t have other options for the seventh inning. One of these options, the aforementioned Abner Uribe, would arguably be an investment in the team’s long-term future. Let’s look through them really quick. Abner Uribe Uribe is probably the top candidate to bump Peguero, either directly in the seventh inning, or by sliding Joel Payamps from the eighth inning to the seventh. Uribe has been a Brewer Fanatic Top 20 prospect with electric stuff that points to a potential future as an MLB closer. He has also been red-hot in the majors, posting a 1.54 ERA with a 1.03 WHIP so far. If Uribe is a future closer, he should be working high-leverage situations at the MLB level – and a one-run game against the Nationals is not a bad place for him to start doing so. There is another benefit to having Uribe take over a late-inning role, whether by directly replacing Peguero or bumping Payamps to the seventh. It could enable the Brewers to consider dealing Devin Williams in future seasons, allowing Uribe to take over the ninth inning. The return on Josh Hader wasn’t overwhelming, but dealing Williams could bring a nice package of prospects (or MLB players) in return, just as the team ultimately turned Hader into William Contreras and Robert Gasser . Hoby Milner Milner has not flashed the overpowering stuff that Uribe has, but over the entire 2023 season, he’s posted a 2.17 ERA in 52 appearances covering 45 2/3 innings pitched. That is a remarkable track record of consistency. If a one-run lead was too tight for the rookie, Milner certainly has made the case that he should be the primary guy in the seventh inning when a starter doesn’t handle it. Andrew Chafln Yes, Chafin struggled as well Tuesday against the Rockies, but at the same time, the Brewers dealt Peter Strzelecki for him at the deadline. If you’re going to deal a relatively cheap reliever with multiple years of control for another reliever, then perhaps that reliever should be put in the high-leverage spot. Overview Elvis Peguero has been a valuable pickup for the Brewers from the Hunter Renfroe trade. His recent rough patch is something that can happen to any reliever (just look at Josh Hader in 2022), but he could rebound and be solid. That said, if the Brewers are looking for a title, it may be time for the team to either go with the steady Hoby Milner or future closer Abner Uribe – at least for the time being. If you were in charge, how would you handle this situation? View full article

The Brewers have seen some serious struggles in their lineup in 2023, prompting many to question if it is time for an upgrade. But could the answers be down on the farm or otherwise in-house? Image courtesy of Mike Krebs, Biloxi Shuckers The depth of the Brewers farm system cannot be overstated. After all, they just dealt Jhonny Severino, a shortstop with an .872 OPS in the ACL, for a two-month (or longer) rental of Carlos Santana, and Severino arguably was the third-best player to have seen time at that position just on that roster behind Dylan O’Rae and Juan Baez. So, what positions could be upgraded “in house,” so to speak, either directly (assuming a player comes up from the farm) or indirectly (through a minor-leaguer pushing a major-league player elsewhere in the lineup)? Let’s take a look. Catcher The Contreras/Caratini duo has been one of the better ones in MLB. Contreras is producing at an amazing clip and has become average defensively. Caratini works well with ace Corbin Burnes. However, Jeferson Quero’s development has been superb in Biloxi, and he could make the case for being in Milwaukee in 2024. First Base Rowdy Tellez tried to tough out a forearm issue – and sent production at that position spiraling way down. The Brewers have 37-year-old Carlos Santana as a short-term fix. For the short term in 2024, the Crew could decide to look to Nashville for someone to fill in. Keston Hiura may have finally turned things around and could be worth a look there, while Patrick Dorrian has flashed some power. For a long-term solution, Tyler Black recently started playing first base in Biloxi. Noah Campbell and Cam Devanney could also be in the mix. One interesting possibility is to move Yelich to first to have room for an outfield of Sal Frelick, Garrett Mitchell, and Joey Wiemer in 2024. Second Base Brice Turang’s defense isn’t the issue, the questions usually surround his bat. However, over the last week, his OPS+ was 85, a big improvement over his season-long OPS+ of 60. But if the Crew wants an in-house upgrade, they could always call up Tyler Black or give Abraham Toro a long-term look at the position. Shortstop Willy Adames has delivered 1.4 wins above replacement as of July 29, due to a season-long slump in terms of batting average. If the Crew wants a potential upgrade, they could turn to Cam Devanney, who has slammed the cover off the ball the last two years. Freddy Zamora might be another option. Third Base Tyler Black’s performance in Biloxi opens the question as to whether he is the best choice to take over at third. Other options could include Abraham Toro, Cam Devanney, or even Patrick Dorrian. Left Field Could the Brewers improve on Christian Yelich? More like, Yelich can improve other positions, like designated hitter or first base, given the depth of talent the Brewers have in the outfield. Center Field Joey Wiemer has not been awful in center field. Yes, his batting profile looks a lot like Keon Broxton right now, but in the minors, Wiemer showed OBP skills and speed. Jackson Chourio is a huge X factor – and could force his way to the majors sooner rather than later, even if there is a case to be patient. Right Field Blake Perkins and Tyrone Taylor have generally struggled in right field, with Perkins posting a 74 OPS+ and Taylor at a 19 OPS+ (after struggling with injuries). Brian Anderson also saw time there with a 90 OPS+. Wiemer, who originally went there, could be an upgrade as he adjusts to MLB pitching. Designated Hitter This will likely be improved indirectly by the talent flowing upwards from the minor leagues. The outfield talent glut could push Yelich to this role easily, Tyler Black could step in from Opening Day 2024, or Jeferson Quero could force William Contreras into a lot of DH at-bats. Overview The Brewers have a lot of talent down on the farm when it comes to the position players. Some of those players could be very credible in-house options for the Crew at position where the team’s performance fell short in 2023 – and at very cheap prices for at least the short term. Making use of those solutions could be the difference for the team in 2024. The Brewers are relying on several young and inexperienced players as we enter the final months of the season and a pennant chase. Looking forward, are there other minor leaguers who could factor into the season this year or in 2024? View full article

We have considered the “overlooked” prospects in the Brewers farm system over the offseason and earlier this season. Now, with about a month remaining in the minor-league season, it is a good time to discuss some under-discussed Brewers prospects. Who has emerged as the season has moved forward? Image courtesy of Joshua Sumrall, Biloxi Shuckers It might be fair to ask the question: "why look at these minor leaguers that aren't highly touted and discussed?" Two words: Andruw Monasterio. He didn’t get a lot of hype prior to the season - few minor-league signings do. He just performed, and currently he is making a lot of the starts at third base for the Brewers' big-league club. For the record, the players being written about below were not among the Top 30 Brewers prospects per MLB Pipeline. They didn't appear on any Brewer Fanatic Top 20 rankings. However, they are doing something that has caught my eye and they warrant being discussed. All stats are as of August 5 of this season. Catcher Darrien Miller, Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+) .224/.332/.384 in 245 at-bats with 16 doubles, 7 home runs, 34 walks and 58 strikeouts Miller slumped early in the season, but he has rebounded to a level close to his 2022 production since then. The real question is what, exactly, his defensive home will be, or even should be. His bat certainly seems worthy for promotion to Double-A or Triple-A, but is he more of a first baseman or designated hitter than a catcher? The Brewers will need to figure that out over the offseason. Edgardo Ordonez, Arizona Complex League Brewers (R) .242/.388/.379 in 66 at-bats with 6 doubles, 1 home run, 17 walks and 27 strikeouts Ordonez has been caught up in a crowded catcher situation in Maryvale. The Brewers made the decision to have only one team in the ACL this season. However, in his limited time, he has made a strong case to go to Carolina next season with Satchell Norman. He has shown excellent on-base skills and some pop. Overview Both Miller and Ordonez would be considered prospects in a system that did not have Jeferson Quero relatively close to the majors - or in any of their affiliates. First Basemen Ernesto Martinez, Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+) .268/.342/.444 in 239 at-bats with 10 doubles, 10 home runs, 23 walks and 57 strikeouts Martinez repeated at Wisconsin after a 2022 season mostly lost to injury. Like Miller, he struggled early in the season, but his bat has been lethal in July. He remains a threat on the bases, with 13 steals, and his 2021 foray to center field is tantalizing, even with the team’s depth at the position. The Brewers may be in need of a new first baseman come 2025, as Rowdy Tellez nears free agency, and Martinez has made a case for consideration. Of course, that is if he can handle Double-A and Triple-A pitching. However, he will be a minor-league free agent this offseason, so the Crew may need to work something out. Should they? Jesus Chirinos, Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (A+)/Carolina Mudcats (A) .241/.372/.372 in 191 at-bats with 11 doubles, 4 home runs, 41 walks and 83 strikeouts Chirinos slumped and struggled early in the year, and he was sent back to Carolina from Wisconsin. He has rebounded some since then, helping hold first base down for the Mudcats, but splitting time with Tayden Hall, Jesus Parra, and Luke Adams. At 21, Chirinos can turn things around career-wise, but he has taken a hit. Wes Clarke, Biloxi Shuckers (AA) - New .216/.361/.454 in 271 at-bats with 14 doubles, 17 home runs, 55 walks and 105 strikeouts Clarke has seen time both behind the plate and at first base, while having emerged as a legit “three true outcome” bat. While a cutdown in the strikeout rate would be nice, he’s made a case to reach Triple-A next season, where he could split time with Zavier Warren at first and also spend time behind the plate. Overview Clarke and Martinez have established themselves as solid prospects. Much like Monasterio, they have provided solid production in the minors, and could easily be solid producers at the major-league level. Chirinos will be looking to rebound in 2024, and has to work on reducing strikeouts, but is still very young. Please share your thoughts on these specific Brewers prospects, and which other Catchers, First Basemen/DHs aren't be talked about enough in your opinion, and why. Next: Second Base, Third Base, and Shortstop View full article

In that case, I think the Crew dodged a bullet. Adams is not a bad corner IF/LF prospect, and Lara is a legit topp-of-the-order sparkplug. Would hate to deal them for a rental.

The Brewers were involved in a flurry of deals as the trade deadline hit. With the team coming off being swept by the Braves and a heart-wrenching loss to the Nationals as of Tuesday morning, how did the team do? Here’s a way-too-early evaluation of the moves. Image courtesy of Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports Last year, then-President of Baseball Operations David Stearns’s biggest move was to deal Josh Hader to the Padres for a four-player package. It didn’t go well, with the Brewers missing the playoffs by one game. No such major deal happened this offseason. But the five smaller deals may matter a lot. Let’s look them over. Brewers trade minor-league SS Jhonny Severino to Pirates for 1B Carlos Santana Severino was falling behind Juan Baez and others in the ACL, and while he flashed power, his OBP skills were a little iffy (one walk in 48 at-bats). Getting Carlos Santana to bolster first base in return was an excellent return for what was, for all intents and purposes, a bench player in the low minors. Grade: A Brewers trade RHP Justin Jarvis to Mets for OF/1B/DH Mark Canha and cash Jarvis had a breakthrough season in 2022, and the early part of 2023 saw him continue to dominate in AA before falling off in AAA. Canha filled the need to bolster right field with the lack of offense from Blake Perkins, Tyrone Taylor's struggles this season, and Rowdy Tellez’s freak injury that set his return back four weeks. Dealing Jarvis, who at one time was among the Brewer Fanatic Top 20 Prospects, may sting, but Canha fills a need, and none of the top prospects in the system were moved. Grade: B Brewers trade RHP Peter Strzelecki to Diamondbacks for LHP Andrew Chafin Chafin gives the Brewers a second reliable left-handed pitcher, a need given Justin Wilson’s injury setback. With eight saves already, Chafin has some late-inning experience that could help the team out when Devin Williams needs a day off. Strzelecki, whose four-pitch arsenal helped the Crew put an early-season dagger into the Cardinals, is a relatively high price to pay given his team control and solid 2022, though. Grade: B- Brewers trade C Alex Jackson to Rays for RHP Evan McKendry This deal likely clears the way for Jeferson Quero to head to Nashville, following a superb offensive season. Quero’s defense has drawn rave reviews, but his bat has also been superb (.871 OPS, including 31 walks in 233 at-bats), even if overshadowed by Jackson Chourio’s rise. Getting McKendry gives the Brewers a replacement of sorts for the traded Justin Jarvis. Grade: A Brewers trade IF Luis Urias to Red Sox for RHP Bradley Blaylock One-time extension candidate Luis Urias had his season derailed by an Opening Day hamstring injury, and he never really recovered. The development of Andruw Monasterio made a trade the best thing for both Urias and the Brewers, with Urias getting a fresh start, and the Brewers getting another potential rotation piece, given the struggles of Stiven Cruz and Cameron Wagoner. Grade: B- Overview The Brewers may not have made big splashes at the trade deadline, but they also avoided the twin pitfalls of emptying the farm system and blowing up team chemistry. While the results for the 2023 season are yet to be determined, these deals could already be improving the Brewers for the medium-to-long term. Overall Interim Grade: B You've had four or five days to take it all in, see a few more Brewers games, and decompress. It's still too early to evaluate, but what are your early thoughts on what the Brewers did at the deadline? View full article

Surprised me with the Alex Jackson deal... I'd have thought Quero would be in Nashville. His bat's clearly ready for the promotion, and IMO, it isn't even a close call.

Quero, Campbell, Devanney, and Blaylock for sure. McKendry and Zamora are maybes.