Milwaukee Brewers: How is the fifth starter race shaping up?

The Milwaukee Brewers have almost a half dozen pitchers vying for the final spot in the starting rotation. We’re over a week into the Spring Training schedule, and a few guys have already managed to impress, while others are falling behind.

The Milwaukee Brewers have five pitchers vying for a single rotation spot. Only two of the five figure to even make the Opening Day roster. However, the names leading the pack might surprise you.

How’s Wade Miley doing?

Wade Miley has tossed 4 1/3 innings in two starts. He still has a perfect 0.00 ERA with seven strikeouts and zero walks. Miley has thrown strikes and is even hitting 94 MPH on his fastball this early in camp.

So, Miley’s the front runner?

Not necessarily. Brent Suter has also tossed four innings and still has a perfect 0.00 ERA. He’s struck out four and walked one.

So, it’s Suter’s job to lose?

Again, not necessarily. Junior Guerra has allowed one run, but he owns a 1.50 ERA in six innings of work. He’s struck out five and walked only one. He struggled in his first start, but his last two outings have been fantastic.

Is there anyone else in the mix?

Yovani Gallardo has struggled early and it looks like he’s on the outside looking in. His 7.20 ERA is unsightly, but it also comes with six walks in five innings of work.

Aaron Wilkerson owns a 2.25 ERA in four innings of work. He needs to continue to rack up zeroes and post strong outings if he wants to be taken seriously as a candidate.

Miley, Suter, and Guerra are the clear front runners, but they’re all one or two rough innings away from missing out. Suter and Guerra have a chance to earn a bullpen role, but Miley hasn’t made a relief appearance since 2012. Miley has to make the roster as a starter, or he’s not going to make it.

Next: Can Keston Hiura make the Opening Day roster?

While Opening Day is more than three weeks away, and at least one of the names in the fifth starter competition has slipped. The role is still very much up for grabs, but the field is starting to tighten. Given Miley’s track record, he looks like the front runner. However, Suter and Guerra aren’t far behind. There are still a few twists and turns that have to occur before the job is finally awarded.