Milwaukee Brewers: Who is Tyler Webb?

The Milwaukee Brewers dealt Triple-A slugger Garrett Cooper the New York Yankees for reliever Tyler Webb. It appeared that Webb would head to Colorado Springs, but it looks like he’ll join the Major League roster. Reliever Michael Blazek will head back to Triple-A. So, who is Tyler Webb, and how will he add stability to the Brewers bullpen?

Brewers fans may remember Webb from the recent series in New York. He appeared twice against the Brewers. The first time, he allowed two runs on three hits and a walk in 2/3 of an inning. He managed to get Eric Thames to ground out in his second appearance.

The acquisition of Webb gives the Brewers two lefties in the bullpen. Josh Hader will continue to work multiple innings, but what will Webb’s role be? Is he a LOOGY or just left-handed arm to have for the late innings? The answer might be both.

What Role Will He Play?

Webb has put up jaw dropping numbers in Triple-A this season. He owns a 15.67:1 K:BB ratio. In 33 1/3 innings of work, he struck out 47 while walking only three. While his ridiculous production in Triple-A hasn’t translated to Major League success, he does have value. He’s transitioned from a pitcher who gave up a ton of fly balls early in his career, into a guy who’s capable of keeping the ball on the ground.

Webb has a fastball, slider, change-up repertoire that gives him a weapon to use against lefties and righties. He can get right-handed hitters out, but he may stay in against some left-handers as well. He isn’t limited to just a batter or two.

With Brent Suter’s transition to a starting role and a lack of left-handers available, the Brewers have struggled to find a reliable option to use against right-handed hitters in the late innings. If his success in the upper minors are any indication, Webb could develop into the left-handed reliever the team has lacked.

Next: What's In Store For The Brewers In The Second Half?

Garrett Cooper earned a spot on the Pacific Coast League All-Star team, but lacked a role at the Major League level. He didn’t have a path to a full-time role with the Milwaukee Brewers. The Yankees recently released Chris Carter, and needed someone to handle first base duties. This may be Cooper’s best shot at earning a starting role with a Major League team.