Bunt to Lose Episode 3: Tucker Neuhaus Interview

Andrew and Alec host this week’s episode as they interview the Milwaukee Brewers’ 2nd round competitive balance pick, Tucker Neuhaus (@Tucker_Neuhaus). Tucker, freshly turned 18 years old, answers a variety of questions, including growing up playing baseball along side his dad, his entire draft experience, who he emulates in the major leagues, if he likes bunting, and whether he’s a Chipotle or Qdoba guy. All that and more in this week’s episode. It was a pleasure to have Tucker on the show.

Follow us on Twitter: @BuntToLose, @AlecDopp, @YouAStupidHogg, @AndrewVrchota

Read our blogs here:
Alec Dopp – http://BrewCrewBall.com/
Curt Hogg – http://reviewingthebrew.com/
Andrew Vrchota – http://wisportsblog.blogspot.com/

Hosted By: Alec Dopp, Curt Hogg, and Andrew Vrchota

Click here to listen to Episode 3: http://thesportsstuff.com/bunt-to-lose-ep3interview-with-brewers-draftee-tucker-neuhaus/

Until next time, Beers, Brats, and Championships.

- Andrew Vrchota (@AndrewVrchota)

Follow us on Twitter (@WISportsBlog) for up to date news on the Brewers, Packers, Badgers, Bucks, and Golden Eagles. We feature live, in-game commentary, breaking news, previews and post game discussions. Follow the entire Wisconsin Sports Blog writing team on Twitter: @AndrewVrchota, @jheldred, @10iskristin, @JoeP_Norton, @SMahon2Go, @olewr7, @Stevie2Westside, and @Mik3_Schu.

Milwaukee Brewers 2013 MLB Draft Results

DAY 1

Round 2, Pick 54 - Devin Williams, RHP, Hazelwood HS, Missouri 


The Brewers did not have a 1st Round pick in this draft because of the free agent signing of Kyle Lohse. However, that didn't stop the Brewers from drafting a 1st Round talent. Williams was ranked #20 on Keith Law's big board and #44 by Baseball America.

Williams has a projectable body, which means he has space to grow physically. Right now he sits at 6-3, 175 pounds. His fastball hits 90-93 on the radar and it has room to grow. His change up sits at 82 and curve ball sits at around 77-78.

According to Ben Frederickson, $1.017MM is recommended signing bonus for where the Brewers selected Devin Williams. However, the Brewers expect to offer him more.

I really like this pick. The Brewers shied away from taking a college arm this year and went to the high school arm. Hopefully they can hit big on an arm once in my lifetime. I have a good feeling about Williams.

I mentioned above that Keith Law had Williams ranked as his #20 player on his big board. Law is known for being quite critical of farm systems. Especially the Brewers over the years. He had this to say.

Outstanding pick RT @mmcmanus13: Looks like #Brewers had a 1st rd pick after all - Devin Williams 20th on @keithlaw top draft prospect list.
— keithlaw (@keithlaw) June 7, 2013

Round 2, Pick 72, Competitive Balance Pick - Tucker Neuhaus, SS/3B, Wharton HS, Florida


This is exactly what the Brewers needed. In the preview blog I did a few days ago, I mentioned that the Brewers needed to focus on building the depth of our infield back up. I especially stressed the need of second base and third base. Although he is listed at short stop, I see Tucker turning into a third baseman. And quite frankly, I don't think we need to worry about a short stop for a while.

Tucker has a big power bat, which is another reason you'd think third base would be ideal for him. However, Bruce Seid has indicated that Tucker will in fact start in the Brewers system as a short stop. The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers are going to be a fun team to watch next year, that's for sure.

Tucker is a good story. He's been through a lot in his life. He tragically lost his brother in a car accident this past year. He's battled through a few injures. Adversity is no stranger to the 17 year old.

DAY 2

Round 3, Pick 90 - Barrett Astin, RHP, University of Arkansas

Barrett Astin was ranked #125 in the draft by Baseball America. This is a good pick, only because it's likely to help pay for Devin Williams.

Round 4, Pick 122 - Taylor Williams, RHP, Kent State

Baseball America listed Taylor Williams at #144. Fastball hits 95 mph. The Brewers have taken two college pitchers in a row. I like this pick more than our third round selection, for what it's worth.

Round 5, Pick 152 - Joshua Uhen, RHP, University Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Hey! Congrats to the local kid, who was the #1 prospect in Wisconsin. A little bit of a red flag pitcher, but the Brewers have a well recognized pitching coaching staff that knows how to take care of arms. Joshua can hit 98 mph with his fastball.

Round 6, Pick 182 - Garrett Cooper, 1B, Auburn University

Cooper is a great pick here. Cooper isn't the first first baseman the Brewers have selected from Auburn. You may have heard of Hunter Morris. Cooper is 6-5, 230 pounds. Little known fact...Cooper was born on Christmas in 1990. Hopefully he can be a gift for Milwaukee.

Round 7, Pick 212 - Omar Garcia, CF, Miami Dade Community College South

Omar Garcia batted .447 with 19 RBI, 39 R, 32 SB at Dade CC South this year. Not sure if he'll stay in center field, or if they try him at middle infield. Outfield seems to be him comfort zone. Not a lot out there on him. He's very small at 5-9, 160 pounds, though.

Round 8, Pick 242 - Brandon Diaz, CF, American Heritage HS, Florida

Brandon Diaz is another speedster. Scouting reports give him a grade 70 for speed, which is pretty good. Our Florida scouts have been busy this year it seems. He's 5-11, 175 pounds.

Round 9, Pick 272 - Tyler Linehan, LHP, Fresno State

Tyler will be a bullpen guy. He struggled this past year. He still has decent stuff. He's got a good cut-fastball that sits in the low 90s. He compliments it with a good breaking curve ball. Jonathan Mayo says if he can add a third pitch and become more consistent, he will be a solid bullpen guy.

Round 10, Pick 302 - Michael Ratterree, RF, Rice

A former second baseman turned outfielder. Don't have much on him. He's 6-1, 210 pounds.

DAY 3

Round 11, Pick 332 - Andy Hillis, RHP, Lee University

Andy is 6-8, 240 pounds. Hillis hits a constant 94-96 mph with his fast ball and can hit 99 mph. He was ranked #179 by Baseball America

Round 12, Pick 362 - Trevor Seidenberger, LHP, TCU

Fastball is high 80's and will develop.

Round 13, Pick 392 - Tanner Norton, C, Bishop Brossart

Tanner might be a tough sign: http://bit.ly/13hEbhg

Round 14, Pick 422 - Hobbs Johnson, LHP, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

Fastball sits at around 88 but will develop. Also throws a change up and curveball.

Round 15, Pick 452 - David Denson, 1B, South Hills HS, California

He did this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8bNe8Aoa8o


Round 16, Pick 482 - Corey Miller, RHP, Pepperdine University

Went 10 scoreless innings (3 hits, 10 strikeouts)  in April vs. Washington Huskies

Round 17, Pick 512 - Brandon Moore, RHP, Arkansas University

He's part of an Arkansas pitching staff that has an NCAA best 1.87 team ERA, which is an NCAA season record that hasn't been broken since 1976.

Round 18, Pick 542 - Clint Terry, LHP,  Lee University

He has an excellent change-up and good competitiveness on the mound. Great left-handed option.

Round 19, Pick 572 - Josh Matheson, RHP, Minnesota State - Mankato

Relief pitcher. Started one game for Minnesota State. He went 6 innings and only allowed one hit.

Round 20, Pick 602 - Ryan Yarbrough, LHP, Old Dominion

Not finding much on him. Struck out 60 over 82 2/3 innings for Old Dominion in 2013.

Round 21, Pick 632 - Tristan Archer, RHP, Tennessee Tech

As I'm getting to these later picks, it's really hard to find anything on them. So if I don't, I'm going to just write an interesting fact about the player. I'll start here with Tristan...he's majoring in Turf Grass Management.

Round 22, Pick 662 - Johnathan Davis, LF, West Los Angeles College

Found absolutely nothing on him. He's Ryan Braun's replacement, though. (kidding)

Round 23, Pick 692 - Eric Williams, CF, Sachse HS, Texas

This time last year, Eric Williams made Jason A. Churchill's Class of 2013 outfielders. Read here: http://espn.go.com/blog/high-school/baseball/tag/_/name/eric-williams

Round 24, Pick 722 - Chris Razo, RHP, Illinois State University

Chris Razo was selected by the Collegiate Baseball Newspaper as a Louisville Slugger Third Team All American.

Round 25, Pick 752 - Drew Ghelfi, RHP, Minnesota University

Drew calls LaCrosse, Wisconsin home. He'll be a relief pitcher.

Round 26, Pick 782 - Kyren Gilmore Parrott, CF, Herndon HS, Virginia

Found nothing on him, but Kyren Gilmore Parrott has my vote for best baseball name drafted by the Brewers this year.

Round 27, Pick 812 - Tyler Alexander, LHP, Florida International

Tyler tossed a complete game shutout vs. Arkansas State on March 29th. He allowed 4 hits and struck out 10 batters. At that point of the season he had struck out 45 batters over 44 1/3 innings.

Round 28, Pick 842 - Alex Moore, RHP, Lee University

According to Moore's coach, he turned things around big time in 2013 after a bad 2012. Most improved player on the team, in fact.

Round 29, Pick 872 - Nick Eicholtz, RHP, Cambridge Christian HS, Florida

He's already said he'll be playing for the University of Alabama. Won't be signing with the Brewers, unfortunately.

Round 30, Pick 902 - Luis Aviles, SS, Southwest Miami HS, Flordia

Put up a .297 batting average for Southwest Miami High. Not a power bat at all. Speed. Speed. Speed.

Round 31, Pick 932 - Tanner Poppe, RHP, Kansas University

The second Tanner picked, this time a pitcher. He's a two-time Academic All-Big 12 First Team (2011, 2012) and KU's Rookie of the Year in 2010.

Round 32, Pick 962 - Ryan Deeter, RHP, UCLA

He's a relief pitcher. 0.89 ERA over 30 1/3 innings in 2012 as a set up man.

Round 33, Pick 992 - Charles Leblanc, SS, Georges Vanier SS, CANADA~!

OH CANADA! It took until the 33rd round to draft someone from the great north. That has to be a Brewers record, considering their motto is Speed. Power. Canada. Here's a showcase video of him: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eu_gKZ2jzU

Round 34, Pick 1,022 - Dylan Brock, RHP, Glendale Community College

Brock is a pitcher, but has a nice bat as well. Batted .318, 3 HR, 30 RBI, 26 R for Glendale CC.

Round 35, Pick 1,052 - William Travis, RHP, Southwest Mississippi Junior College

Not to be confused with the 19th-century American lawyer and soldier, but I couldn't find anything on him.

Round 36, Pick 1,082 - Jesse Weiss, 1B, Kenyon College

Here's Jesse doing a hitting session for Baseball Central: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7bKHrlCovk

Round 37, Pick 1,112 - JaVon Shelby, SS, Tates Creek Senior HS, Kentucky

Son of Brewers outfield coach John Shelby.

Round 38, Pick 1,142 - Charlie Markson, CF, Notre Dame

Another hometown kid. He's from Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin.

Round 39, Pick 1,172 - John Cleary, C, University of Maryland College Park

Couldn't find anything on him.

Round 40, Pick 1,202 - Kenneth Meimerstorf, RF, Bishop Gorman HS, Nevada

Here's Kenny hitting at Team Vegas Scout Team's HQ. He was Nevada's #2 prospect in 2013: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oY02QLENrs


Until next time, Beers, Brats, and Championships.

- Andrew Vrchota (@AndrewVrchota)

Follow us on Twitter (@WISportsBlog) for up to date news on the Brewers, Packers, Badgers, Bucks, and Golden Eagles. We feature live, in-game commentary, breaking news, previews and post game discussions. Follow the entire Wisconsin Sports Blog writing team on Twitter: @AndrewVrchota, @jheldred, @JoeP_Norton, @SMahon2Go, @olewr7, @Stevie2Westside, and @Mik3_Schu.

MLB Draft Preview: Milwaukee Brewers Mini Mock

This is just a little 4 Round mock draft I did for the Brewers. I only did four rounds because, frankly, I didn't feel like doing a forty round mock draft. This is just to give you an idea of how the Brewers could/should draft. This will shed some light on the fact that if we draft well, not having that first round pick won't sting as much. Don't get me wrong, it's still unfortunate that we don't have it, but it's not the end of the world. I'll be the first to tell you that the Brewers need to value their draft picks a lot better then they do. So, anyways, here are a few prospects to look out for during the first couple of rounds.

Round 2 Pick 54 - Cavan Biggio, 2B/3B, St. Thomas HS, Houston TX

Last year I feel the Brewers missed the boat on passing up on 3B Joey Gallo, who was eventually drafted by the Texas Rangers about ten or so picks after the Brewers drafted. Gallo is not hitting for average in Low A for Texas, but he is tearing the cover off the baseball and his fielding% has been in the 90's.

This year, I don't want the Brewers to miss "the boat". So, meet the SS Biggio. Actually, 2B/3B Biggio. Yes, the product of future Hall of Famer Craig, Cavan Biggio would be a glorious pick for the Brewers.

It's evident that the Brewers need to address their infield woes as the recent decline of Rickie Weeks and lack of any hope of having a future third baseman have become obvious in recent years. Current second base prospect Scooter Gennett was called up to platoon with Weeks. Taylor Green was called up last year and was supposed to be the next big thing for the Brewers as he was coming off a Minor League Player of the Year campaign with the Brewers. I can't speak for Gennett but we all know how the Green project worked out.

Cavan Biggio is a great pure talent. Hits the ball well, and still has room to build muscle to really hit for power. He throws right, bats left. He can play both second and third base. He's shown he is very patient at the plate. The only thing that worries me is that he won't be on the board when it comes time to make our pick at #54.

Round 2 Pick 72 (Competitive Balance) - A.J. Puk, LHP, Washington HS, Cedar Rapids Iowa

Starting pitching is yet again an issue for the Brewers. You can never have enough pitchers in your minor league system, especially if they are quality guys. Puk is a great lefty who has a low to mid-90s fastball which will gain a couple tics on the radar as he matures. He has a great change up with good arm speed. His curve ball is a bit of a side arm throw, which will tip pitchers once they pick up on the difference in release points. He does a great job at hiding the ball.

The kid is not only listed as a left handed pitcher, but also a first baseman. He prefers to be drafted as a pitcher, but he also loves to swing the bat. He possesses phenomenal bat speed. He's a very aggressive left handed swinger with lift.

Puk has way more upside on the mound, but he should attract a few National League teams with the bat he possesses as well. Puk should be a solid middle of the rotation pitcher someday.

Round 3 Pick 90 - Jan Hernandez, 3B/SS/2B, Beltran Academy, Florida, P.R.

If the Brewers are able to draft Hernandez in the 3rd Round, it will be the biggest steal on the 2013 MLB Draft.

Jan Hernandez is former teammates with last year's number one overall pick Carlos Correa and is often compared to Carlos. He is considered one of the best pure hitters in the draft this year. Much like Cavan Biggio, Hernandez would help the Brewers rebuild some depth in their minor league system after the trades and busts they've had over the last few seasons.

Hernandez has the potential to be a hit for average player, maybe break 20 home runs every year, and play above average defense at third base. He has much more upside at third base vs. short stop or second base.

One scout said "I wouldn't be surprised if you told me ten years from now that Jan Hernandez is the best hitter in the game." So, there's that.

Round 4 Pick 122 - Pat Young, RHP, Villanova

Pat Young is going to be a huge sleeper pick in the 4th Round. Young stays in the 92-94 MPH range and can hit 95 from time to time. His fastball has a lot of life to it as well. At times it shows a decent amount of sink to it. His slider is developing right now, but showed signs of a major league breaking ball. He also throws a change up every so often.

Pat Young is a tall fellow. He's a staggering 6-7, 205 pounds. 

I think the ceiling for Young is a solid number two in a pitching rotation. He's got some good stuff that will develop well in the minors. Worse comes to worse, he's a great power righty out of the bullpen. 

Note: I previously had the Brewers drafting RHP Buck Farmer out of Georgia Tech. The Brewers drafted Farmer last year in the 15 Round of the 2012 Draft, but Buck decided not to sign and return to Georgia Tech for his senior season. I had to be brushed up on the MLB Draft rules and found out that a player can't be drafted by a player they drafted in a previous year unless they have the player's consent.

The Draft will take place Thursday through Saturday, beginning with the Draft preview show on MLB.com and MLB Network on Thursday at 5 p.m. CT. Live Draft coverage from MLB Network's Studio 42 begins at 6 p.m. CT, with the top 73 picks being streamed on MLB.com and broadcast on MLB Network. Rounds 3-10 will be streamed live on MLB.com on Friday, beginning with a preview show at 11:30 a.m. CT, and Rounds 11-40 will be streamed live on MLB.com on Saturday, starting at 12 p.m. CT.

Until next time, Beers, Brats, and Championships.

- Andrew Vrchota (@AndrewVrchota)

Follow us on Twitter (@WISportsBlog) for up to date news on the Brewers, Packers, Badgers, Bucks, and Golden Eagles. We feature live, in-game commentary, breaking news, previews and post game discussions. Follow the entire Wisconsin Sports Blog writing team on Twitter: @AndrewVrchota, @jheldred, @JoeP_Norton, @SMahon2Go, @olewr7, @Stevie2Westside, and @Mik3_Schu.

Interview with Brewers Prospect Taylor Mangum

Photo: DeseretNews.com

Player Profile

Name: Taylor Adams Mangum

Age: 24 (Born 03/04/1989)

Birthplace: Vacaville, CA

School: Utah Valley U

Height: 6'1"

Weight: 190 lbs.

Year Drafted: Undrafted (signed in 2012)

Position: Relief pitcher

Throws: R

Bats: R

Minor League Affiliate: Helena Brewers

Andrew: Growing up, when did you start getting into the game of baseball?

Taylor: Ever since I was old enough to pick up a ball ha I can't remember really when I started playing.

Andrew: Name an athlete that stands out to you as someone who inspired you to become an athlete yourself.

Taylor: My father, even though I was never old enough to see him play I've seen articles and heard stories about his competitiveness and drive. I've always wanted to make him proud of my accomplishments by following his example.

Andrew: What were your favorite sports teams growing up?

Taylor: Growing up in Northern California I've always been a big fan of the Giants, 49ers, and Sacramento Kings, hope they can stay in sac town and not Seattle

Andrew: If you had an opportunity to play with or against one baseball player that has either retired from the game or passed away, who would it be?

Taylor: Nolan Ryan, great athlete and example of hard work and dedication, not only on the field but in the weight room, I mean come on the man threw 7 no nos.

Andrew: Who is the best pitcher in baseball today, in your opinion, and why?

Taylor: Justin Verlander, great command and velocity. Crazy that he can start a game 91-93 and finish the 9th throwing 97-100+

Andrew: If it wasn't for your successes in sports, what would be your ideal career outside of baseball?

Taylor: I was studying exercise science in college but I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to do. I know the medical field is a solid occupation, something that will always be needed.

Andrew: If it weren't for baseball, what other sport do you think you would play professionally if you had the opportunity?

Taylor: Football, really miss playin under the lights on a Friday night. Some of the best times of my life.

Andrew: As a pitcher, are you more comfortable as a starter or as a relief pitcher? Talk about the different ways to mentally prepare for either position.

Taylor: I'm more comfortable as a relief pitcher. I love throwing in later innings when the game is on the line. I don't try to do it all myself you have to have confidence in your defense to help you get the job done. I just focus on throwing strikes and keeping the ball down cause I'm naturally a ground ball pitcher.

Andrew: The Brewers recently made a trade with the A's to acquire 3B Stephen Parker who happens to be your Brother in Law. Bias aside, what should Brewer fans expect from him in the next few years?

Taylor: Expect him to get the job done. He's the type of guy that will let his play do the talking. He leads more by example than anything else. He was limited In his playing time with the A's triple a team last year but when he's playing on a day to day basis he's as good as anyone. He's got a great glove and bat.

Andrew: Talk about being in the MLB Draft. Obviously it must have been disappointing to not get drafted, but just talk about the whole experience.

Taylor: Yea I was disappointed I didn't get picked up but all I was looking for was an opportunity and I got it. Not many teams were looking for a 23 yr old relief pitcher that took two years off to serve an LDS mission. A few days after the draft on a Saturday night I got the call, signed, and was on a plane to AZ the next day. It's always a blessing to be doing something you love, not many people can say that.

Andrew: Have you made any trips to Miller Park yet? If so, how did it feel knowing that could be you one day on there on the field?

Taylor: I haven't but my brother has. I know he's hoping to go back so I'm trying to give him a reason to go sooner than later ha. I have a great fan club from four older brothers, my parents, and most importantly my wife Michelle.

Andrew: In your opinion, who is the greatest baseball player of all time?

Taylor: Well being a bit biased towards pitchers I'll say Mo Rivera. He's been so consistent throughout his career and been a key part in the Yankees success. To dominate on the mound the way he has with really only one pitch has been absolutely incredible. He's the first that came to mind but I know there's many that can contend for the #1 spot.

Andrew: Overall, what are your early perceptions of the Milwaukee Brewers organization?

Taylor: Just that, organized. They run things in a very structured way. Look at the moves we've made this spring. No doubt we're trying to win not only a division title but contend for a championship.

Andrew: Chipotle or Qdoba?

Taylor: Chipotle

Andrew: Steroids in baseball is a serious subject right now. Talk about your feelings about Performance Enhancing Drugs in baseball.

Taylor: I feel they've ruined baseball. I would never want anyone to think back on my career and see me as a guy who cheated and cut corners. Athletes should have the drive to develop their talents naturally.

Andrew: Bottom of the 9th, two outs. Runner on third. Who is the last person in baseball today you would not want to pitch to?

Taylor: Whoever is swingin the hottest bat at the time ha but I'd have to say Miguel Cabrera.....triple crown winner for a reason.

Andrew: What is your main goal you have set for yourself going into the 2013 season with the Brewers?

Taylor: Make a full season roster prior to the draft and finish in Brevard or higher.

Until next time, Beers, Brats, and Championships.

- Andrew Vrchota (@AndrewVrchota)

Follow us on Twitter for up to date news on Brewers, Packers, Badgers, Bucks and more. Live in game commentary, breaking news, previews, and post game discussion. @WISportsBlog @AndrewVrchota, @JoeP_Norton, @SMahon2Go @ryan_937, @Mik3_Schu, @jheldred, @B_Toom_3, @olewr7, and @Stevie2Westside. Finally, find us on Instagram! (wisportsblog)

Interview with Brewers Prospect Jimmy Nelson

Player Profile

Name: James J Nelson

Age: 23 (Born 06/05/1989)

Birthplace: Niceville, FL

High School: Niceville HS

College: University of Alabama Tuscaloosa

Height: 6' 6"

Weight: 245 lbs.
Year Drafted: 2012 (2nd Round, 92nd overall)

Position: Starting Pitcher

Throws: R

Bats: R

Minor League Affiliate: Huntsville Stars
Twitter: @Jimmy_J_Nelson

Andrew: Growing up, when did you start getting into the game of baseball?

Jimmy: I started when I was 4, but started getting really serious when I was a freshmen/sophomore in high school.

Andrew: Name an athlete that stands out to you as someone who inspired you to become an athlete yourself.

Jimmy: I've always liked Roger Clemens because of his work ethic and demeanor on the mound.  I admire his competitiveness.

Andrew: What were your favorite sports teams growing up?

Jimmy: The Braves since they were the closest MLB team.  I never really got into the NBA or NFL.

Andrew: If you had an opportunity to play with or against one baseball player that has either retired from the game or passed away, who would it be?

Jimmy: Probably the Yankee sluggers like Ruth and Gehrig.  It would be neat to face players from that era.

Andrew: Who is the best pitcher in baseball today, in your opinion, and why? 

Jimmy: Roy Halladay because of his consistency.  He always gives his team a chance to win.

Andrew: If it wasn't for your successes in sports, what would be your ideal career outside of baseball?

Jimmy: Well I would still like to stay in the game somehow whether that's being a pitching coach or something but outside the game of baseball I would stay in the field dealing with kinesiology which is what I was studying at the University of Alabama.

Andrew: If it weren't for baseball, what other sport do you think you would play professionally if you had the opportunity?

Jimmy: Basketball, I always enjoyed playing when I was growing up but nowadays the NBA players that are 6' 6" are fast and can jump out of the gym; and I can't really do either of those things.

Andrew: As a pitcher, are you more comfortable as a starter or as a relief pitcher? Talk about the different ways to mentally prepare for either position.

Jimmy: I like starting the most but am willing to do either.  Whatever would benefit the team the most.  I like starting and putting in the work in the offseason and between starts.  I feel like as a starter you really have to study the opposing lineups and the way you are going to attack them with what you have, and be able to go through the lineup a few times without being predictable.  As a bullpen guy you have to have all your pitches working right out the gate where as a starter it may take a couple innings to really get the feel of your stuff.  So I respect the guys out of the bullpen that have that ability to turn it on that quick.

Andrew: Let's go back to 2007. You were originally drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the 39th round. What made you make the decision of not signing?

Jimmy: I had a good scholarship with the University of Alabama and it just wasn't a big enough offer for me to pass that up.  And in the end I feel as if it was the best decision I have made and has helped shaped me to who I am today.

Andrew: Jumping to 2010, you were drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the second round.  Talk about that experience and what it felt like when you were taken in the second round by Milwaukee.

Jimmy: I was extremely happy and relieved.  All the hard work and hours that I put in at Alabama were starting to pay off, however I realized that you can never be content with the good things that are going your way.  So I understood it was just a stepping stone in the right direction and got back to work to try and accomplish my next set of goals at that time.

Andrew: Have you made any trips to Miller Park yet? If so, how did it feel knowing that could be you one day on there on the field?

Jimmy: Yea I played there in the Rising Stars game and a game during the regular season in Appleton Wisconsin.  Both were great experiences and give you something to look forward to when you get there.  It was also good to be able to interact with the great fan base that the Brewers have.

Andrew: In your opinion, who is the greatest baseball player of all time?

Jimmy: I think there is to many to really just name one, and there are many still playing right now that at the end of their careers can be added to that list also.

Andrew: St. Louis Cardinal fans are considered the "intelligent" fans of baseball, and rightfully so. How would you describe Brewer fans in the realm of baseball?

Jimmy: Haha, I would describe the Brewer fans as very dedicated and enthusiastic about their team.  I also haven't really heard any negative talk from fair weathered fans about players.  So all of those attributes are greatly appreciated by us and make them a great fan base.

Andrew: Overall, what are your early perceptions of the Milwaukee Brewers organization?

Jimmy: I believe its a good organization regardless of what the "ranks" are.  I think we have a good way of developing guys through the system and teaching them how to be professionals.

Andrew: Chipotle or Qdoba?

Jimmy: Definitely Chipotle, I think I single handedly kept them in business in College Station this offseason.  We had one about 40 yards from our apartment so we were considered regulars.

Andrew: Steroids in baseball is a serious subject right now. Talk about your feelings about Performance Enhancing Drugs in baseball.

Jimmy: As someone who prides them self on working hard I'm strongly against them and am happy to see the steps that are being taken to filter them out of the game.  

Andrew: Bottom of the 9th, two outs. Runner on third. Who is the last person in baseball today you would not want to pitch to?

Jimmy: Myself haha just kidding. It really wouldn't matter truthfully, I'd trust my defense enough and my pitching ability to pitch to anyone in that situation.

Andrew: What is your main goal you have set for yourself going into spring training and the 2013 season with the Brewers?

Jimmy: To stay healthy the entire season.  I missed a little time last year with some shoulder fatigue/inflammation and have worked very hard this offseason to rest and strengthen my shoulder and my whole body.  You can't achieve any of your other goals you have set when you're on the disabled list.

Until next time, Beers, Brats, and Championships.

-Andrew Vrchota (@AndrewVrchota)

Follow us on Twitter for up to date news on Brewers, Packers, Badgers, Bucks and more. Live in game commentary, breaking news, previews, and post game discussion. @WISportsBlog @AndrewVrchota, @JoeP_Norton, @Brandon_BFP, @SMahon2Go @ryan_937, @Mik3_Schu. Finally, find us on Instagram! (wisportsblog)

Interview with Brewers Prospect Tyrone Taylor

Photo: Brewers.net

Player Profile

Name: Tyrone A. Taylor

Age: 19 (Born 1/22/1994)

Birthplace: Torrance, CA
School: Torrance HS

Height: 6'0"

Weight: 180 lbs.
Year Drafted: 2012 (2nd Round, 92nd overall)

Position: Centerfield

Throws: R

Bats: R

Minor League Affiliate: Helena Brewers

Andrew: Growing up, baseball wasn't your first choice. What made you make the switch from football to baseball?

Tyrone: I’ve been playing ball since I was like 4 years old, so baseball has actually been the sport I grew to love. I really only played three years of football in high school and had the time of my life doing it, but baseball has always been the sport for me.

Andrew: If it wasn't for your successes in sports, what would be your ideal career outside of baseball?

Tyrone: Probably becoming a physical therapist.

Andrew: Name an athlete that stands out to you as someone who inspired you to become an athlete yourself.

Tyrone: My mom was good at softball, so being young and seeing her newspaper clippings on the walls of the house everyday inspired me to want to be an athlete just like her.

Andrew: What were your favorite sports teams growing up?

Tyrone: I’m a California guy haha so growing up I was a fan of the Lakers, Dodgers, and Kings. Now the Brewers are definitely in that list of teams haha

Andrew: If you had an opportunity to play with or against one baseball player that has either retired from the game or passed away, who would it be?

Tyrone: I’d want to play with Willie Mays because he was arguably one of the best centerfielders ever and I would learn so much from just watching him.

Andrew: Residing in California, there are many attractions to keep yourself occupied. What are some things in California you enjoy doing on your free time?

Tyrone: The amusement parks here are really fun to go to. The beaches are nice, and I also enjoy going to some Laker games when I get the chance.

Andrew: Last week in Milwaukee it was -4 degrees out with a wind chill that made it feel -17 degrees. If you made it to the big league roster as a full time player for the Brewers, would you consider moving to Milwaukee and living here year round?

Tyrone: Yeah I’d definitely consider it. Even though it’s cold, from what I saw on my short visit Milwaukee is really beautiful.

Andrew: Let's talk about draft day. Talk about that experience and what it felt like when you were taken in the second round by Milwaukee.

Tyrone: It was a very exciting day. My family and a couple friends were at my house watching and the anticipation of just hearing my name be called was crazy! When I heard my name called it was a great feeling, and when I realized it had been the Brewers that drafted me I couldn’t have been any more excited. It was a great moment to share with my family and friends and also my area scout Dan Houston who was the first person to call me after I had been chosen.



Andrew: Have you made any trips to Miller Park yet? If so, how did it feel knowing that could be you one day on there on the field?

Tyrone: I briefly saw the outside of it when I made a trip to get my shoulder mri done, but by the way it looks on TV with all the great fans at every single game and how beautiful the field is, I get goose bumps just thinking about how amazing that would be.

Andrew: In your opinion, who is the greatest baseball player of all time?

Tyrone: I feel Willie Mays is because he played a great centerfield and was able to hit for both power and average through his career.

Andrew: St. Louis Cardinal fans are considered the "intelligent" fans of baseball, and rightfully so. How would you describe Brewer fans in the realm of baseball?

Tyrone: The “best” fans of baseball. If you watch a Brewers game you can feel the excitement of the stadium through the television screen. I myself have witnessed how amazing and supportive Brewers fans are by receiving kind messages wishing me luck on my first full season coming up. I’m thankful to be part of an organization with such a great fan base.

Andrew: Overall, what are your early perceptions of the Milwaukee Brewers organization?

Tyrone: Everyone in the organization is great. Trainers, coaches, front office, players. I couldn’t be happier to be in this fantastic organization.

Andrew: How's your shoulder holding up?

Tyrone: My shoulders great! I’m excited to go out there this year with my shoulder feeling the best its ever felt.

Andrew: Chipotle or Qdoba?

Tyrone: I’m definitely a Chipotle kinda guy haha

Andrew: Steroids in baseball is a serious subject right now. Talk about your feelings about Performance Enhancing Drugs in baseball.

Tyrone: I mean I believe in working hard to get where you want to be is key. So I don’t really see how people can use steroids to cheat there way to where they want to be and feel good about themselves. It’s just all bad.

Andrew: What is your main goal you have set for yourself going into the 2013 season with the Brewers?

Tyrone: Just to maintain a routine through the season in order to stay healthy so I can stay on that diamond and have fun playing the sport I love.

Until next time, Beers, Brats, and Championships.

-Andrew Vrchota (@AndrewVrchota)

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