Three Things To Watch This Spring For The Brewers

Tweet

As pitchers and catchers report to camp for the Milwaukee Brewers, many questions remain unanswered. Although the progression of Spring Training will provide clarity to these questions that arose during the offseason, here are a few things to watch during this Spring Training for The Crew.

1. Who's on first? Who's on second?

There will be major competition to two positions throughout spring as there is a three way (maybe even a four way) battle at for a two-man platoon of first base and a two-man battle for playing time at second base.

Juan Francisco will be joined by either Mark Reynolds or Lyle Overbay on the Opening Day 25 man roster once the dust settles from Spring Training. Both Reynolds and Overbay were signed on minor league deals with invites to major league spring training to duke it out for a starting first base position. Unless there is an injury, I don't see how Lyle Overbay makes the 25 man roster. I really think this one may be locked up before spring training even begins. Could a name like Sean Halton or Hunter Morris emerge as a candidate as well? I'd say yes, but there's a reason why the Brewers went out and signed Reynolds and Overbay in the first place.

As for second base, either Rickie Weeks or Scooter Gennett will be starting at second base on Opening Day while the other will ride the bench and enjoy some sunflower seeds and Gatorade. No matter who starts and who doesn't on Opening Day, though, this will be a platoon just like first base. Who ever plays and who doesn't will ultimately reflect on the pitching match-up and obviously who's swinging the hot bat and who's not. Earlier in the offseason, Ron Roenicke implied that Scooter Gennett was the favorite to be the starting second baseman heading into the 2014 season, but all of that can change with a hot spring by the recently married Rickie Weeks.


2. Who will take over the lead off duties?

The Brewers have an extremely large void at the lead off spot in the batting order now that Norichika Aoki is gone as he was traded to the Royals earlier this offseason for south-paw pitcher Will Smith. The plus about Aoki is that he always found a way to get on base. Infield singles, bunting, hit by pitches, walking...he found a way to get on. Aoki also lead the entire league in at bats per strikeout at 14.9. In order to replicate the same offensive statistics as the Brewers did last year, they will need to be careful on who they put in that role.

Because of his speed, the obvious candidate that comes to mind for some would be Carlos Gomez. He had a break out year last season and is set up to have an even bigger one this year. That being said, Carlos is not known for being patient at the plate and tends to strike out more often than not. Granted he set personal records in hits (152), batting average (.284), on base % (.338), stolen bases (40), and walks (37) last season, he also set a personal record in strikeouts (146). I personally think he's better suited batting in the two-hole behind the lead-off hitter or in the 6th spot in the order if his power stroke returns. His placement depends on who else is in the lineup that day.

The most realistic candidate for the leadoff spot is Jean Segura. He's got about the same amount of speed as Carlos Gomez. He offers the same attributes and Nori Aoki did as a lead off hitter. Segura's on base percentage of .329 is right on cue with the league average (.329). Segura and Aoki have the same exact RC/9 (runs created per 9 innings/27 outs). Basically, if you took nine Jean Seguras or nine Nori Aokis and put them in a lineup, they would produce 4.8 runs per game. They both have near identical offensive win % (Jean is .543, Nori is .545) Just like RC/9, if you have nine of either player, you would win 54% of your games. One of my favorite advanced stats to look at for a lead off hitter is total average. You find that by adding up total bases, hit by pitches, walks, and stolen bases (subtract caught stealing) and divide that by subtracting hits from at bats and then adding caught stealing and ground in to double players (Total Bases + HBP + BB + SB - CS) / (AB - H + CS + GIDP). By doing that, you'll find that Jean Segura beats out Nori Aoki's .660 total average with a .699 total average of his own.

(Note: Scooter Gennett has a lot to work on before he can even be considered as a lead off hitter.)

My quick projected lineup for opening day:

(Assuming LHP Mike Minor is Atlanta's Opening Day Starter)

1. Jean Segura
2. Carlos Gomez
3. Ryan Braun
4. Aramis Ramirez
5. Mark Reynolds
6. Jonathon Lucroy
7. Rickie Weeks
8. Khris Davis
9. Yovani Gallardo

(Assuming RHP Kris Medlen is Atlanta's Opening Day Starter)

1. Jean Segura
2. Scooter Gennett
3. Ryan Braun
4. Aramis Ramirez
5. Jonathon Lucroy
6. Carlos Gomez
7. Juan Francisco
8. Khris Davis
9. Yovani Gallardo


3. Who will round out the final spots of the bullpen?

The bullpen has between four to five spots already filled. You'd have to assume that Jim Henderson, Francisco Rodriguez, Brandon Kintzler, Tom Gorzelanny, and Will Smith all have bullpen spots secured. That being said, there are about five more guys available for the Brewers to pick from to fill the final two spots.

Tyler Thornburg - With the signing of Matt Garza, Tyler Thornburg was unfortunately bumped from the starting rotation. He could still make the team, but he'll have to settle for a bullpen role. If he has a strong spring and the Brewers think he's more valuable in the Brewers bullpen rather in the Sounds starting rotation, he could take one of the final spots.

Rob Wooten - We got to see Rob for the first time last season. He produced a respectable 3-1 record, 3.90 ERA with 18 strikeouts over 27.2 innings pitched. He has good control and movement on his low-90s fastball. He makes a case to make the bullpen.

Alfredo Figaro - The flamethrower could find his way back into the bullpen if the Brewers feel they need his arm back in there. I, however, feel Figaro will be DFA'd when a spot for Mark Reynolds needs to be cleared.

Michael Blazek - Acquired from the Cardinals last season in which we sent them John Axford, some say Michael Blazek is John Axford 2.0. Big arm with closer potential. He'll definitely get a serious look.

Photo: brewers.com

Wei-Chung Wang - A Rule 5 Draft pick, Wang (right) would have to stay on the Brewers' 25 man roster for the entire season. Otherwise, he'd be sent back to the Pirates unless the Brewers and Pirates work out some sort of deal. Wang will be given a look this spring, but it's going to be difficult for him to stay on the team when he's never pitched passed rookie ball. He may end up becoming a trade chip if he pitches well.

Outside looking in: Donovan Hand, Jimmy Nelson, Zach Duke, Michael Olmsted.

Hopefully this gets everyone even more excited for Brewers baseball! 43 days until Opening Day. 43 days.


Until next time, Beers, Brats, and Championships.

-Andrew Vrchota

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

Foresight: Your 2016 Milwaukee Brewers

I was searching the internet Wednesday morning and was curious as to what our organizational depth looked like for the Brewers. After looking over a few sites (Baseball America and Baseball Prospectus in particular), I decided this would be a nice, informational piece to do. Now, obviously if the Brewers make substantial trades or free agent signings, this whole article will be for naught. So with the understanding this is strictly based on the development of the Brewers current farm system, here is what our 2016 roster could potentially look like.

Starting Lineup

Catcher: Jonathan Lucroy

I think it's become evident that the Brewers hold Lucroy at a rather high regard, both on the field as a catcher, and off the field as a clubhouse leader. Lucroy signed a very club friendly extension at the start of last year's Spring Training. Lucroy seems like he's a company guy and he should be someone the Brewers build around. He's got a great middle of the order bat. One can only hope he improves his percentage of throwing runners out on the base path. Regardless, I don't see why Lucroy wouldn't be a part of the Brewers' future.

First Base: Hunter Morris

I think Hunter will be our starting first baseman in 2015, to be honest. It's about time we find some closure at this position since the departure of Prince Fielder. Hunter Morris will not only provide the glove at first base, but he will also offer balance to our right-handed heavy lineup. He has the power to bat clean up for the ball club. By the time he is playing in the Bigs, he should have his plate discipline issues all figured out. As for Corey Hart, he could sign some sort of extension or maybe just a one year deal this upcoming offseason. But, with Hart's injuries and age, I don't see him being a part of the Brewers long term plans. Hunter Morris is their guy.

Look at the gritty smile.

Second Base: Scooter Gennett

The man with all the grit, Scooter Gennett. Don't take this the hard way, my #TeamRickie people. This has nothing to do with Weeks' performance. I honestly think Weeks will be a guy the Brewers trade in the next couple of years, making room for Scooter to play in the Majors. Much like Morris, Gennett adds another left handed bat to a lineup full of right handers. Scooter is a great contact hitter. He doesn't hit for much power. He's got decent speed, so he could see a possible spot at the top of the order for the Brewers.

I want to point out that there are a few alternate scenarios that circle around second base for the Brewers. If Scooter doesn't end up working out for Milwaukee, the Brewers do have a few options for the position. The first one would be to convert the ultimate utility man Josh Prince into a full-time middle infielder. Prince plays every position except pitcher and catcher, and lately he's been playing a lot of outfield. Prince has great range and speed. He's just an all around great baseball prospect. The other would be to move this next guy over to second base and have Orlando Arcia take over shortstop. Arcia is showing great flashes of big league potential, especially this year coming off a terrible ankle injury.

Shortstop: Jean Segura

Um, duh? If Jean Segura isn't at shortstop in 2016, it's because he's playing second base. Segura is the future star of this ball club and the Brewers will build around him accordingly. By 2016, Jean will hopefully have some sort of extension from the Brewers. If not, he will be heading into his first year of arbitration. Jean is showing signs already that he is going to be one of the best shortstops in all of baseball. He's consistently making jaw dropping plays, stealing an enormous amount of bases, and showing signs of being a great hitter to all parts of the field. That combined with him only  being 26 years old in 2016 is a recipe for success. He's going to be the face of the Milwaukee Brewers franchise.

Third Base: Nick Delmonico

Thank you Doug Melvin. Thank you K-Rod. The Brewers recently acquired Nick Delmonico from the Orioles for closer Francisco Rodriguez. This was a pretty outstanding trade by the Brewers considering we signed K-Rod to a minor league deal and flipped him for Baltimore's #4 overall prospect according to Baseball America. Bravo, Doug.

Nick has a lot of developing to do, especially at the plate. As for the glove, well that needs a little work too. Nick was drafted as a second baseman turned first baseman turned third baseman. He has played mostly all third base this season, which has shown some bumps in the road for his transition. As for his bat, he has a chance to be a twenty home run hitter. He is a potential hit for average guy, but he hasn't shown it yet. He shows patience at the plate and will take a walk. He doesn't strike out a lot. He is a lefty, which I mentioned above to the importance of having a few lefties in the lineup. If all goes well with his development, he should be ready by 2016.

Ryan Braun dumped a lot more than just water on the Brewers this year.

Left Field: Ryan Braun

No matter how much Michael Hunt tells you, the Brewers aren't trading Ryan Braun because of this steroid issue. He's signed until 2020. He's our left fielder. I could get into a really long discussion about this, but I'll save it for a rainy day (it actually rained a lot lately, but never mind). Braun lied. He messed up. He messed up big time. What he did is shameful, and it's embarrassing that I once defended him and claimed his innocence. But, we are a small market team. We aren't releasing him because a small market team can't just up and take a $117MM hit to their payroll. MLB contracts are all guaranteed money, unlike the NFL and NBA. Unless Braun were to retire, the Brewers would take that hit. The Brewers aren't going to trade him because the return won't be anything that's worth it. Braun needs to come out in 2014 and just play the game of baseball that Brewers fans all fell in love with in 2007. That will be a good start to patching some serious holes he has created.

Center Field: Carlos Gomez

Much like Lucroy last year, Carlos Gomez signed a franchise friendly contract before the season started during Spring Training this year. Many expected Gomez to test the free agent market, but ended up not going that route. So far, Gomez has lived up to his contract extension, currently putting up a list of career highs this season for the Brewers. Gomez is just entering his "prime" in baseball, so we could just be seeing a sample size of better things to come. The beautiful aspect about Carlos Gomez's game is that he covers ground in center field like no other in baseball. Plus, you can honestly bat him anywhere in the order in a crunch, but preferably he's a good fit for the middle/bottom of it. Wherever he hits in the lineup, it's pretty much a guarantee he'll be out there in 2016.

Right Field: Victor Roache

After missing all of his first year with a wrist injury, Roache has picked up right where he left off when he was playing college ball at Georgia Southern. Roache has a great power bat and can hit to both sides of the field. His K/BB ratio needs some fixing, but that comes with developing in the minors. He is only 21 years of age right now, so he has time to work on his plate discipline. Depending on whether or not the Brewers offer an extension to Norichika Aoki really effects the time table of Victor. I believe, just like for Rickie Weeks, that Aoki will become a trade chip for the Brewers between now and then. That being said, if the Brewers do extend Nori, I don't think it would be a contract that would last much longer than 2016's season anyways.

2016 Opening Day Lineup

1. Scooter Gennett - 2B
2. Jean Segura - SS
3. Ryan Braun - LF
4. Hunter Morris - 1B
5. Carlos Gomez - CF
6. Jonathan Lucroy - C
7. Victor Roache - RF
8. Nick Delmonico - 3B
9. Wily Peralta - SP

Bench

C Clint Coulter 

I'm not sure where Maldonado will be. Maybe he'll be finding a bat that works? Coulter will ready to take over as our backup catcher in 2016. Snooze you lose, Maldy. Maldonado could end up turning into a trade chip.

OF Logan Schafer 

Shout out to fellow writer Kristin Zenz here. Logan is her man. There is reason to believe that Logan should be a starter by this time. However, I really like Logan as the 4th outfielder. He can play all three spots equally well. Don't get me wrong, Logan will get his share of starts if he does platoon with Roache. I just like Roache's power in the regular lineup. 

IF/OF Josh Prince 

In my view, Josh Prince is such a huge asset for the Brewers in the future. It's rare you have a guy like Josh who is so versatile. He plays every outfield position. I'm almost positive he plays every infield position. He just learned second base this spring. He doesn't catch. He doesn't pitch. He's got great speed. He'd be great for pinch runner situations and would provide some pop off the bench. 

Orlando Arcia's ceiling is sky high, and he's only 17 years old

SS Orlando Arcia

This may be a bit of a reach, only because between Segura and Prince, short stop is well covered for this team. However, like I said earlier the Brewers could move Segura to second base to make room for Arcia. Arcia is turning a lot of heads up in Appleton. He's showing great signs of big league potential, especially on defense. If the Brewers don't see it necessary to have Arcia on the roster, the club could turn outfielder Tyrone Taylor for a bench spot.

1B/3B Juan Francisco

With the potential that is there combined with the fact he's under team control until 2018, I don't see why Juan wouldn't be on the Brewers. He's be 29, and hopefully by then he can figure out his issues at the plate. I love the power Juan has coming off the bench here. He provides great depth at both first and third base. The only thing that contradicts this is that a left handed hitting Juan Francisco is back up to left handed hitting Hunter Morris and left handed hitting Nick Delmonico.  

Starting Rotation

RHP Wily Peralta

Move over Gallardo. This is Wily Peralta's time to be head honcho of the starting rotation. Unlike Gallardo, I actually believe Peralta has true ace potential. Peralta is showing glimpses of that potential this season already. Wily had a really good month of July, going 2-2 with a 2.13 ERA over six starts. He threw the club's first complete game since 2011. He still has a few things to work on. But, when he puts up numbers like that, you know it is only a matter of time.

RHP Johnny Hellweg

Hellweg has a ton of control issues. We know this. But, when it's all said and done, Hellweg has the stuff to be a dominating pitching at the top of our rotation. His fastball is lights out. He's got an above average breaking ball. While his change up still needs work, it will be a great third pitch for Hellweg. Lots of people think he'll end up being a bullpen arm. Given the time he still has to pitch in the minors, I think he will be able to fix the problems and turn out to be a great #2 starter.

Jimmy Nelson was selected to this year's Futures Game

RHP Jimmy Nelson

Jimmy Nelson is the #1 prospect in the Brewers organization right now. Nelson really excelled in the Huntsville this year, but has struggled a bit in Nashville. Much like Hellweg, Nelson has three pitches in his arsenal. His fast ball is of the sinker family, followed by an advanced breaking ball. He follows that up with a developing change up. And too, like Hellweg, some project Nelson as a middle innings relief pitcher if starting doesn't pan out. I'm optimistic and think Nelson will be a big league starter by 2016.  


RHP Taylor Jungmann

The Brewers could potentially have the tallest starting rotation in all of baseball in 2016. Jungmann stands at 6 foot 6, as does Jimmy Nelson. Hellweg tops out at 6 foot 9. Peralta could be the shortest of the group at 6 foot 1. Jungmann was one of two college arms the Brewers drafted in the first round of the 2011 draft. Jungmann has shown great consistency and has reached the ranks for Double A Huntsville. He has a great fast ball/slurve combo. He attacks the bottom of the strike zone and induces a lot of ground balls. Jungmann is a workhorse, which is something to keep an eye on when the end of the season nears.

LHP Jed Bradley

Jed Bradley is a real dark horse here. He has struggled a lot since being drafted in 2011. Bradley was shut down last year due to arm fatigue. He's back at it this season and he is showing some improvement, but nothing that is head turning. When it comes to left handed starting pitchers, Bradley is really the only promising one in our system right now (Not counting anyone who we just drafted in 2013. It is too early to tell.) There is not written rule that you have to have a lefty in your rotation, but it is nice to mix it up a bit. If Bradley doesn't work out, I like RHP Jorge Lopez a lot.

Possible bullpen arms worth mentioning: Ariel Pena, Damien Magnifico, Tyler Thornburg, Rob Wooten, David Goforth. (The bullpen isn't even worth going into detail. It could be anyone.)

So there you go folks. Hope this somewhat brightened your day after having the gloomy cloud over Milwaukee's head since last Monday. The Brewers look very promising and we aren't that far away from being competitive again. We have a solid offense plus a very dominate rotation in the mix. And looking at the controllable years on many of these players, the Brewers payroll won't be too crazy either. Keep your heads high, Brewer fans.

Until next time, Beer, 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, @TABrown23, and @10iskristin.

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.

Bunt to Lose Podcast: Episode 1 Recap

First of all, thank you all for following the @BuntToLose account on Twitter this past week. Most appreciated! If you don't, I recommend you do so now for all updates on the show!

In Episode 1, Curt, Alec, and I discussed the controversy among fans and baseball enthusiasts regarding Rickie Weeks and Scooter Gennett. We compare stats, what each player offers the Brewers, as well as what we think how the fans should be reacting to this recent slump of Rickie Weeks.

In the second half of the show we go into depth on the Brewers' pitching. Starters, relievers, and a few guys in the minors. We debate on the current state of the bullpen. What should the Brewers do with the bullpen if KRod raises eyebrows in the minor leagues? Who do we designate for assignment? What to do with Mark Rogers and Mike Fiers, both who had awful springs and are trying to come back to the right form. Who is there in the minor leagues that is ready for the next level? All of those questions and more are answered in this inaugural episode.

Here is a link to the show that will direct you right to our page on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/bunt-to-lose/id645840811

Here's the link that will take you right to our page on TheSportsStuff.com: http://thesportsstuff.com/bunt-to-lose-ep1controversy-who-our-second-baseman-should-be/

We are set to record another episode this Sunday, which would be ready on iTunes on Tuesday I would assume. Once school lets out for Mr. Hogg and Mr. Dopp, we will be able to have a more consistent schedule of shows for our listeners.

Follow us on Twitter:
@AlecDopp
@YouAStupidHogg
@AndrewVrchota

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

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, @Mik3_Schu, @jheldred, @olewr7, and @Stevie2Westside. Finally, find us on Instagram! (wisportsblog)

Top 10 Brewers Prospects in 2013

Pitchers and catchers are set to report for the Milwaukee Brewers in 40 days. It is time again to look over our farm systems and rank the top prospects the Brewers have. Last season, we seen many players in the likes of Mike Fiers, Wily Peralta, Jim Henderson, and Mark Rogers come up through our system and succeed in 2012. We also seen Jean Segura, Angels' top prospect, come over in a trade, who also opened people's eyes last year. With all of those men now on our major league roster, I really don't consider them prospects anymore, with the exception of Wily Peralta. With that, here's a rundown of who I see as the Top 10 prospects for the Brewers.

10. OF Victor Roache - The Brewers drafted Victor with the 28th overall pick in the 2012 draft. Not many people knew where Victor would fall on the draft board because of his broken wrist he suffered during his sophomore year in college. Before he broke his wrist, he was on an absolute tear in college, mustering up 30 home runs. He will be ready to go this spring, and will likely be assigned to Helena or the Timber Rattlers. MLB.com projects him making his major league debut in 2015. He has one of the best power bats in our minor league system. His average speed and range will  compliment him nicely as a corner outfielder. He is definitely someone to keep an eye on in 2013 to see how he progresses after his wrist injury.

9. C Clint Coulter - Just like Roache, Coulter was also picked in the first round in the 2012 MLB Draft. Coulter was 27th overall, one pick ahead of Roache. This pick was awarded to the Brewers from the Tigers when Prince Fielder signed his contract with Detroit last January. Clint is only 19 years old, however he is 6'3" 210 pounds and is full of integrity. He didn't hold out for a large contract after the Brewers drafted him. He quickly signed and began playing for the Brewers rookie level Arizona league in June. Clint has about as much power as Victor Roache, but he isn't a a pure hitter like Victor potentially could be. As for catching, he has a great arm. He needs to most work on his footwork and fluency behind the plate, as well as spotting balls from going past him. MLB.com projects him making his debut in 2016.

Photo: MiLB.com

8. LHP Jed Bradley - Bradley is an interesting placement here. Last year, the southpaw was in everyone's Top 5 or better. But, after a very down 2012 season, he has a lot of work to do to be ready for the majors. He finished with a 5-10 record in the minors last year with an extremely high ERA of 5.53. He was sent to the DL mid-season with a groin injury. Then, in August, Bradley was shut down for the rest of the season with arm fatigue. His statistics and tired arm will both be set-backs for Jed. MLB.com projects Jed to arrive in the majors in 2013. However, I would say 2014 or 2015 is more realistic. Jed has a 4 pitch mix when he's on the mound. He has a mid-90s level fastball, a on or off slider, and also mixes in a change up and curveball. Keep an eye on Bradley this season to see if he can bounce back after his off 2012. With the Brewers already running on empty with a honorable lefty in the rotation, the Brewers hope to see Bradley sooner, rather than later.

7. OF Logan Schafer - Schafer is one of those good stories in our farm system. Logan has been dealt with injury after injury since being drafted in the 3rd round in 2008. His first set-back injury was a nagging thumb injury. Following that, in 2010 he was on and off the DL with numerous other injuries. In 2011, he bounced back nicely and played great ball in Triple-A. Logan then made his major league debut for the Brewers in mid 2012. He doesn't have much power, nor a lot of speed. He hits to all over the field, he is a smart baserunner, and he players great defense in center field. Logan is projected to be the number four outfielder on the Brewers 25 man roster to start the 2013 season, which is very convenient as MLB.com projected his MLB debut would be in 2012.

Photo: MiLB.com

6. 1B Hunter Morris - Morris was drafted by the Brewers in the fourth round of the 2010 Draft. Morris is coming off his best year as a minor leaguer. In 2012, Morris was the Southern League Most Valuable Player after hitting .303/.357/.563 with 28 home runs and 113 runs batted in. He also won the Robin Yount Performance Award as the Brewers Minor League Player of the Year. Hunter Morris is currently ranked the 4th best first base prospect in the MLB. Depending on how serious the Brewers are about retaining Corey Hart, or seeing how Mat Gamel turns around this season, we may be seeing Hunter Morris sooner rather than later. MLB projects him to debut in 2013, which I see as an accurate arrival time. Hunter will likely be a September call up in 2013, which could be a nice preview heading into the 2014 offseason.

5. 2B Scooter Gennett - Gennett was drafted by the Brewers in 2009 in the 16th round of the MLB Draft out of Sarasota, Florida. Many call Scooter an "undersized overachiever". Standing at only 5'10" and weighing a buck sixty five, he is the little engine that could. Scooter is currently ranked the 8th best second base prospect in all the MLB. Gennett represented the Brewers at the 2012 All-Star Futures Game. Scooter's biggest accomplishment in 2012 was when he was still 21 years old, he hit for the cycle against the Royals farm team in March. Many wonder how long Scooter will remain in our organization before he becomes trade bait. With Rickie Weeks currently at second base, Scooter doesn't really have another option other than wait it out. However, if the Brewers decide they need more cap space, freeing up Weeks may be a future option and Gennett would be in line to take over the helm at second.

Photo: brewers.mlblogs.com

4. RHP Johnny Hellweg - Hellweg is another interesting story. Hellweg was a relief pitcher for the Angels organization until 2011 when they switched him to a starter. Now, in normal circumstances, the success rate of this kind of switch is next to nothing. The exact opposite scenario is where the success is found, as in when a starting pitcher is converted into a relief pitcher. But, Hellweg has proved that statistic wrong. Johnny came over to the Brewers along with Jean Segura and Ariel Pena from the Angels in the Zack Greinke trade. Hellweg stands at 6'9" 210 pounds. He has the potential to be a great strikeout pitcher, as he carries a good fastball, a moving change-up, and a few off speed pitches. If he can control his walks, he could see some time later on in 2013 if and when Mark Rogers gets shut down again.

3. RHP Taylor Jungmann - Out of all of our starting pitching prospects not currently in Triple-A Nashville or on our major league ball club, I would say Jungmann is the closest player to be ready for our starting rotation. In Single-A ball, Jungmann had a pretty decent line in 2012. In 26 starts, Taylor went 11-6 with a 3.53 ERA with 99 strikeouts and 46 walks. One stat that is alarming is that he gave up about 1 hit per inning. (159 hits in 153 innings pitched). 2013 will be a huge test on Jungmann's progression as he looks like advance in our minor league system. If all goes well, I see Yungmann ending 2013 in Triple-A Nashville, and maybe even a spot on the Brewers' roster when rosters expand in September.

2. RHP Tyler Thornburg - Tyler is probably the most ready pitcher in our farm system coming into 2013. We saw him make a spot start in 2012 when the Brewers were shorthanded in their rotation due to injury. The one thing Thornburg needs to pick up to become ready for the big leagues is that when you're behind in a count, you cannot serve up a fast ball done the middle. You will be punished every time. As a result, Thornburg gave up a lot of home runs during his short time in the Brewers rotation. Thornburg was most dominate in Double-A ball last year, going 8-1 with a 3.00 ERA with 71 strikeouts on 24 walks. If Tyler can make a few tweaks in his game plan when behind in a count, there is no doubt he is ready for the Brewers' starting rotation.

Photo: Fox Sports Wisconsin

1. RHP Wily Peralta - Peralta is here by default, too be honest. I see him being the odd man out of the Brewers rotation once spring ball is over with. Peralta no doubt will have his spot in the rotation when the time is right, but I think between the control issues Peralta had last season and his arm fatigue that shut him down before the 2012 season concluded, I think the best choice is to put Peralta in Triple-A to start the season off. Similiar to what Washington should have done with Stephen Strasburg last year, the Brewers could choose to not start up Peralta until May to preserve his arm for any potential success the Brewers have come October. But, in any case, Peralta has all to potential in the world to have a bullpen built around him, much like what the Brewers are doing with Yovani Gallardo in 2013.

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)