Better Know a Brewer: Kevin Mattison

Will Kevin Mattison eventually make an impact with the Brewers? Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The last player that the Milwaukee Brewers selected in last week’s Rule 5 Draft was none other than outfielder Kevin Mattison. Coming from the Miami Marlins, Mattison is a 28-year-old prospect who has only touched the major leagues for one game.

Mattison has spent six seasons in the minor leagues inside of the Marlins’ system. However as of last week, Mattison will be making the switch to the Brewers’ organization in 2014 and has the city of Nashville to welcome him to another start in Triple-A. This isn’t to cut down Mattison at all, but in three years in Triple-A, Mattison has only hit .230/.301/.378, leaving some room to be desired.

Unfortunately for Mattison, he’ll have a hard time finding a place in Milwaukee should he ever make the Brewers’ 40-man roster. That isn’t to say because he’s an under-performing prospect, but the Brewers’ farm system is already overflowing with outfielders that Mattison won’t stand out among the crowd unless he improves his game.

At 28, it’s a little concerning that he only has played in one major league game in his professional career. However, funnier things have happened with older prospects, just look at the current closer in Jim Henderson. Mattison certainly has shown signs of life in the minors, but this past season, where he hit only .216 in Triple-A, doesn’t exactly scream “major league promotion” anytime soon.

It’s doubtful that we’ll ever see Mattison up in Milwaukee unless a large string of guys get hurt. The current revolving door of outfielders makes it hard for Mattison to put his foot in the door, but maybe he can surprise the Brew Crew during the course of next season.

What do you think of Mattison? Is he someone you see being up with the Brewers or will he eventually move on to another team? Let us know your thoughts!