Breakout watch: three players in line for a big season
Spring Training is winding down, and players are making their final tune ups before the regular season begins.
With a mix of veterans and a batch of young talent, there are some great candidates to make a splash this year in Milwaukee. For some, it’s just a matter of when they’ll get their shot. For others, a fresh start may be the key to a strong campaign.
Here’s a look at three breakout candidates ahead of the season.
Garrett Mitchell
Mitchell emerged late last season after a September call-up, and he didn’t disappoint. The outfielder made an instant impact, providing a jolt of electrifying speed and some clutch heroics.
In just 28 games last season, the outfielder posted a 1.0 fWAR, behind a .312/.373/.459 slash line and highlight-reel defense in center field.
With a small sample size of MLB action under his belt, Mitchell will look to take the next step in his first full season.
To take his game to another level, Mitchell will need to be more disciplined at the plate. Last season, a 22.5% chase rate led to 28 strikeouts in just 68 plate appearances. Those numbers must drop if he is going to be a consistent contributor to the Brewers lineup. But if they do -- watch out.
Tyson Miller
The Brewers claimed Tyson Miller off waivers from the Texas Rangers early in the offseason. While Miller hasn’t enjoyed a stellar beginning to his MLB career, a fresh start in Milwaukee could do the trick.
Miller is in a crowded race for roles in the Brewers bullpen. But if his Spring Training success is any indication, the 27-year-old could be on his way to landing a spot.
The right-hander hasn’t surrendered a run in five Cactus League appearances – striking out 11 opponents in just eight innings.
While it’s not a guarantee that Miller will find himself on the Brewers Opening Day roster, he has the profile to be a tough matchup for any opposing hitter. He’s starting to show it off in Spring Training, and it could lead to a key role in the Brewers bullpen.
Sal Frelick
All eyes have been on the Brewers No. 2 prospect throughout Spring Training and the World Baseball Classic, where Frelick has looked like a seasoned veteran at the plate.
For the highly touted young outfielder, the success is a continuation of an impressive 2022. Frelick was scorching hot practically all last season, slashing .331/.403./.480 across three levels of the Brewers system.
Along with their bullpen situation, the Brewers have a wealth of outfield options to choose from. With Jessse Winker likely to be the primary DH and Tyrone Taylor starting the season on the injured list, there’s a chance Frelick could break camp for the Crew.
Frelick’s 2023 role remains a mystery for now. However, the 22-year-old's consistent production can’t be ignored. If Frelick gets the call, he could be a huge spark for Milwaukee.