Caleb Durbin's electric MLB debut is exactly what the Brewers needed

The Milwaukee Brewers have been searching for answers at third base, where production has been scarce to start the season, so they called up prospect Caleb Durbin. The 24-year-old made a statement in his MLB debut, injecting energy and immediate impact into a lineup that desperately needed a spark from the hot corner. In a game that showcased his speed, poise, and all-around skill set, Durbin’s electric debut is exactly what the Brewers needed.

Caleb Durbin displayed his speed, poise, and all-around skill set during his MLB debut

In the box score, Durbin finished his MLB debut 2-4 with a run scored, but there is a lot more to write home about than that. Take for instance Durbin's first MLB hit, an infield single that had just a 78 MPH exit velocity, where his speed was on full display as he raced down the first base line. This, of course, came a few pitches after he missed a home run by a few feet.

Later on, Durbin singled again on a blooper that left the bat at 74 MPH. He then advanced to third base on a routine fly out to right field, where after sliding headfirst into third base on a steal attempt, he had to race back to second base to tag up, and then used great baseball instincts to move up 90 feet as the throw to the cutoff man was off the mark and the ball got away from Athletics' shortstop Jacob Wilson.

If all that wasn't enough, Durbin also flashed the leather in this contest. Racing towards the Athletics' dugout in foul territory, Durbin braced himself against the railing, threw his glove outwards, and snagged the baseball to retire Lawrence Butler, a dangerous hitter for the Athletics.

Durbin’s MLB debut was exactly what Brewers fans can expect from the rookie on a nightly basis. He’s a gritty ballplayer who perfectly fits the team’s mold. Hopefully, he can capitalize on the momentum from Friday’s game and secure an everyday role for Milwaukee, as the combination of Oliver Dunn and Vinny Capra had previously failed to produce results