Interview With Brewers’ Outfielder Khris Davis

Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Before 2013, Khris Davis was relatively unknown among casual Brewers’ fans, as he was never among the organization’s top prospects, despite putting up tremendous numbers in the minor leagues.

But after a powerful spring training in 2013, Davis made the Opening Day roster for the first time in his young career. However, because he was backing up MVP left fielder Ryan Braun, playing time was scarce, and Davis was unable to find a groove. He was sent down to the minors after just a month in the bigs.

Davis was called back up in July, and this time, he made sure to stick around. With Braun suspended for 65-games for performance-enhancing drug use, Davis showed he had more than enough talent to be an everyday player.

In 56 games, Davis hit .279 with 11 home runs and 27 RBI. His performance prompted the Brewers to trade Norichika Aoki this offseason and move Braun to right field (a move he was publicly okay with) to make room for him in left.

Davis is expected to man left field for the Brewers in 2014, but he isn’t taking anything for granted.

I was lucky enough to ask Davis a couple of questions about the upcoming season.

Is there something in particular you need to improve on this season?

I want to continue learning and proving I belong in the big leagues. I have a long way to go to be established and stick there.

What are your expectations for the team this year? Do you think you guys are capable of making the playoffs?

I am expecting to win the little battles and be positive. Hopefully, we surprise people since we play in a good division.

You hit 11 home runs in just 136 at-bats last season. Were you surprised you picked up the major league game so quickly?

No. I felt ready when I was called back up. There is a lot more I want to prove. I have to constantly prove I belong.

According to “expert” prospect lists, you were never really considered a top prospect. Does that motivate you at all?

Nah. A lot of that stuff is political money I don’t know much about. I like being the secret weapon, though. If you base prospects on love for the game, instincts  and baseball IQ, I would have ranked higher.

Make sure to follow Davis on Twitter (@khrisdavis2)