2 Triple-A arms who could see next MLB opportunity after Chad Patrick's role change

Unofficially, the Milwaukee Brewers appear to be transitioning Chad Patrick from a starting pitcher into a versatile relief arm. That conclusion is based mainly on his recent usage, as he worked in bulk relief over the weekend against the New York Yankees before logging a one-inning relief appearance against the the San Diego Padres on Tuesday night.

Further supporting that transition, Owen Jonas of Reviewing the Brew pointed out that Pat Murphy recently mentioned during a press conference that the team still has decisions to make regarding its starting rotation for the May 15-17 series against the Minnesota Twins, which appears to be another indication that Patrick is no longer being viewed as part of the rotation mix.

With Jacob Misiorowski, Brandon Sproat, Kyle Harrison, and Logan Henderson currently locked into rotation spots moving forward, one temporary opening remains as Brandon Woodruff continues working back from his dead arm issue. With that in mind, there are two starting options in Triple-A who are likely monitoring the situation closely, knowing that it could lead to their next opportunity with the major league club.

Brewers could turn to Coleman Crow or Robert Gasser for a start this weekend against the Minnesota Twins

With someone needing to occupy Patrick's spot in the rotation, it's likely that Milwaukee turns to one of Coleman Crow or Robert Gasser. Crow made his MLB debut back on April 17, and surrendered just two earned runs over 5.1 innings pitched against the Miami Marlins. He impressed with his big-league-ready repertoire of pitches, including a curveball that was consistently surpassing 3,000 revolutions per minute.

Gasser, meanwhile, hasn't yet made an appearance with the big league club this year -- a result of some arm soreness that cut his Spring Training short and landed him in Triple-A to start the season. As a result, Gasser has had his innings capped by design in Triple-A Nashville, throwing over 4.0 innings just once. However, despite the shorter stints, Gasser is impressing, with a 3.74 ERA and 32 punch outs in 21.2 innings to prove it. He has big-league experience and is ready for his next shot in MLB.

Notably, the Sounds have not yet announced their probable starters for the weekend. Crow last appeared in a game on May 7, meaning he is fully rested, while Gasser threw 4.0 innings on Tuesday, May 12, so he would be pitching on regular rest if he was called upon to start Sunday's series finale against the Twins.

As the Sounds begin to announce their probable starters, it should become clearer which direction Milwaukee is leaning, but don't be surprised if one of Crow or Gasser joins the Brewers' for their border battle against the Twins.

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