Brewers: Looming Minor League Option Decisions for Milwaukee’s Roster

Billy McKinney

Another waiver claim made during the season, McKinney has yet to establish himself at the major league level. However, with the non-tender of Ben Gamel, the chances of McKinney making his way on the roster as a 4th outfielder have improved. As a former 1st round pick, McKinney has talent, and the hope is he can tap into that.

Again, another left handed hitter who has shown pop, that is right up Stearns’ alley. Back in 2019, FanGraphs gave McKinney a future value of 40, which is below average. His Game and Raw Power both graded out above average at 55.

Barring the addition of an outfielder, the Brewers will be in need of an additional outfielder or two to fill out the bench. The three outfielders on the 40-man roster competing for a spot are Corey Ray, Tyrone Taylor, and Billy McKinney.

David Freitas

Another catcher on the roster with no options remaining is David Freitas. Freitas did not appear in Milwaukee at all during the regular season, but was on the playoff roster.

In 2019, Freitas slashed .381/.461/.561 in the minors. His success did not translate over to his limited time in the majors in 2019 however, as he slashed .067/.250/.067 in his 20 plate appearances. 16 of which came with the Brewers, and those were entirely off the bench.

As is the question with Nottingham, it is unclear if he will be able to crack the roster, especially with the Brewers’ continual acquisition of catchers this offseason. Especially given Nottingham appears to have a leg up on Freitas in the battle for a roster spot. Things aren’t looking good for Freitas sticking on the roster.