Milwaukee Brewers’ Grades: Jeremy Jeffress

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Just a few years ago, Jeremy Jeffress was a first round bust that looked like he was going to be out of a job. After the Brewers dealt him to Kansas City as part of the Zach Greinke trade, things didn’t look to be improving. Since his return after being claimed off waivers however, Jeffress has been outstanding back in Milwaukee. His quality arm has succeeded in every role and there is no telling where the Brewers’ pitching staff would be without him. Here is his season in review.

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Last season, Jeffress was excellent in 28 innings of work (1.88 ERA with 25 strikeouts) and this season he was just as good. Appearing in 72 games and pitching in 68 innings, he showed strong command and averaged nearly a batter per inning. Pitching often in crucial late-inning situations, Jeffress proved to be one of the most trusted and reliable bullpen arms.

Though most pitchers tend to wear down in the second half of the year, Jeffress arguably put up better numbers after the break. Often thrust into difficult situations, Jeffress pitched with energy and emotion as he was able to get the team out of jams.

His best stretch of the year came from August 2nd through September 3rd when he put together 13 consecutive scoreless outings. He finished the season a perfect 5-0 with a 2.65 ERA.

With out Jeffress in the bullpen, the team would sorely be hurting in late innings, but with him the bullpen has become one of the strong points of the team. With another strong year, he proved last season was no fluke. Still under contract through the 2019 season, the 28-year-old fireballer looks to be a fixture in the bullpen for years to come.

Final Grade: A

Next: Segura's Final Grade

Next: Davis' Final Grade