Milwaukee Brewers: Lewis Brinson 2017 season review

The Milwaukee Brewers expected to see top prospect Lewis Brinson arrive at the Major League level in 2017. He earned a cup of coffee, but the results weren’t what the team expected. How was Brinson’s 2017 season and where does he stand in the pecking order for 2018?

Lewis Brinson was expected to arrive in Milwaukee some time around the All-Star Break and stake a claim to either center field or right field in 2017. He made his debut with the Milwaukee Brewers on June 11th, but only managed 55 plate appearances at the highest level.

How Did Brinson Do With The Brewers?

Brinson produced a .106/.236/.277 slash line with 17 strikeouts. He did manage to blast a pair of homers and successfully stole a base in his only attempt. While Brinson failed to impress with his bat, he did show impressive range and athleticism in the outfield.

Did Brinson Struggle in the Minors, Too?

Not really. At Colorado Springs in Triple-A, Brinson posted a .331/.400/.562 slash line in 76 games. He also reached double digits in homers and steals. He was every bit the top prospect he was ranked as before the season started with the Sky Sox.

What Derailed Brinson’s 2017 Season?

Injuries and a crowded outfield caused Brinson to struggle with the Milwaukee Brewers. He suffered a thumb injury in early April that caused him to miss games early on in the season. He then suffered a hamstring strain in mid-August. The hamstring injury ended his season early and he’s been rehabbing and working in Arizona since.

When he was on the Milwaukee Brewers roster, he struggled to crack the lineup. He was sent back to Triple-A when he struggled in his limited opportunities.

What Happens To Brinson in 2018?

Brinson’s future with the Milwaukee Brewers depends on what happens this off-season. If Ryan Braun, Keon Broxton, or Domingo Santana is dealt, Brinson could end up with a starting job. If the Brewers fail to deal any of their outfielders, Brinson is likely to get lost in the shuffle again. It’s clear that Brett Phillips has the inside track as the starting center fielder for 2018. Phillips is likely ahead of Broxton on the depth chart right now. Brinson has to have an awesome spring and a ridiculous start to the season in Triple-A if he wants to get back on the Major League radar.

Next: How did Josh Hader do in 2017?

Lewis Brinson won’t turn 24 until early May, but it’s clear that 2018 is going to be an important year for his career in Milwaukee. If he doesn’t secure a starting job soon, either by assuming the role after a deal or winning a starting job, he may realize his potential. The team clearly still believes in his talent, but there are other prospects who could overtake Brinson on the depth chart sooner rather than later.