What to know about Brewers Spring Training
MILWAUKEE -- After housing a handful of Phoenix-area locals and rehabbing players all winter, American Family Fields of Phoenix is about to get much more crowded.
The Brewers open Spring Training next week, marking the start of their bid to begin a new streak of postseason appearances after missing the cut in 2022 for the first time in five years. Among the topics we’ll cover are GM Matt Arnold’s first camp at the helm, manager Craig Counsell heading into a contract year, how organizational newcomers like Jesse Winker will fit and what impact will come from a crop of high-ceiling rookies led by Garrett Mitchell.
Here's what you need to know:
When is the first workout for pitchers and catchers?
Pitchers and catchers participating in the World Baseball Classic will report to Spring Training by Feb. 13. Position players participating in the event will report by Feb. 16. The first organized workout for pitchers and catchers is also Feb. 16.
What is the date of the first full-squad workout?
The Brewers’ first full-squad workout is Tuesday, Feb. 21.
Where is the team’s facility?
American Family Fields of Phoenix is located at 3805 N 53rd Ave. in Phoenix.
Can fans attend workouts?
Yes, and the Brewers’ camp has traditionally been one of the most fan-friendly venues for Spring Training workouts because it allows up-close interactions with players and coaches. Fans can get right up to the fence to watch pitchers throw bullpen sessions, defenders go through their drills and hitters take their swings.
Who are some new faces fans should know?
Winker and catcher William Contreras are the two most notable additions. Winker is a former Reds slugger who tormented the Brewers, but he's coming off an unproductive and injury-marred season with the Mariners. Contreras was an All-Star for the Braves in 2022 and is the younger brother of Cubs-turned-Cardinals catcher Willson Contreras. Brewers catchers combined for a 78 wRC+ last season, 22 percent below average in terms of offensive production.
Other notable newcomers are infielders Brian Anderson, Owen Miller (a Fredonia, Wis., native) and Abraham Toro and veteran starting pitcher Wade Miley, who was previously a Brewer in 2018.
This browser does not support the video element.
Who are some of the top prospects invited to Major League camp?
Outfielders Sal Frelick (No. 2 on MLB Pipeline’s most recent list of Milwaukee’s top prospects) and Joey Wiemer (No. 3), infielder Brice Turang (No. 4), outfielder Mitchell (No. 5), pitchers Robert Gasser (No. 10) and Ethan Small (No. 11) are all on the roster for big league camp, and Turang, Mitchell and Small are also on the Brewers’ 40-man roster. So are relievers Abner Uribe (No. 26) and Cam Robinson (No. 28), who will be in camp competing for bullpen spots.
Which players will be participating in the World Baseball Classic?
We don’t yet have a full accounting, but Brewers closer Devin Williams has committed to Team USA, and other players have expressed their desire to play for other countries. They include Willy Adames and Freddy Peralta for the Dominican Republic and Luis Urías and Rowdy Tellez for Mexico. The full list of participants will be announced in the coming weeks. Training camps for WBC teams open during the first week of March, including Team Great Britain at American Family Fields of Phoenix.
When is the team’s first Cactus League game?
The Brewers open Cactus League play on Saturday, Feb. 25, at home against the Dodgers.
What are a few other notable spring games?
The Cubs visit west Phoenix early on this year’s spring slate, on Tuesday, Feb. 28. That’s one of four games against in-division rivals (also at Cubs on March 12, at Reds on March 13 and vs. Reds at home on March 19). The Brewers also will host an exhibition against Great Britain’s WBC team on March 8.
Will the team’s games be televised?
Yes, although that schedule typically isn’t finalized until just before the start of games. Last year, 11 Brewers Spring Training games aired on Bally Sports Wisconsin. Every game is typically available via TV, radio or MLB.com webcast.
When is the club’s last game in Arizona?
The Brewers close out their exhibition season against the Rockies in Scottsdale on March 28.
What are the details for Opening Day?
For the second straight year and the third time in four years, the Brewers open their regular season at Wrigley Field against the Cubs. First pitch is scheduled for 1:20 p.m. CT on Thursday, March 30.