Milwaukee Brewers: Top performing 2017 draft picks

As with every draft class there are those who rise above expectations and those who fall. While the Milwaukee Brewers top picks are performing, there are some under the radar selections that are getting the job done.

Many of these players only played in rookie leagues, and they could easily fizzle out against higher competition. But their performances during their first taste as professionals in the Milwaukee Brewers organization bring hope for great value in the selections.

The obvious performer is first round selection Keston Hiura. He top the list of players tearing the cover off of the baseball. His combined numbers across the rookie leagues and full season A ball are simply phenomenal. His .371 batting average couples very nicely with four home runs and seven triples.

His bat is not the question, nor was it ever. It was the injury possibility and glove work that brings him down. Too bad there is no DH in the NL. Although many fans of the Crew may be calling for one following the injury to Jimmy Nelson.

Unfortunately, the time in the minors has not answered any of the fielding questions. He has played three games at second base, resulting in one fielding opportunity. Hiura did make the play, if that is any consolation.

Personally, if he is healthy, I think Hiura’s bat is too good not to plug into lineups. If the situation is dire for defense, just don’t run him out there. There are plenty of different options in the Milwaukee Brewers organization for middle infield. And who is to say that he won’t develop a solid enough glove as he works through the minors. At worst, if he is hitting, Hiura could be shipped off to the AL for some serious value.

As the ninth overall selection, Hiura is expected to hit this way. There are several other picks with great performances as well. While some also come with lofty expectations, others are a bit of a surprise.

If these young players continue to play well, the Brewer future will continue to brighten. Unfortunately, only one of the early draft standouts are pitchers. As hitters get better, it may just take a little more time for arms to adjust. In any case, the hitting is on fire.