Brewers call up two of their top prospects in latest roster shuffle

The Milwaukee Brewers announced a flurry of transactions on Wednesday ahead of their series finale against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

Included in the moves was a recall of two of the Brewers top 30 prospects in infielder Tyler Black (No. 3) and right handed pitcher Bradley Blalock (No. 17).

To make room for these two top prospects on the active roster, infielder Oliver Dunn was optioned to Triple-A while right-hander Elieser Hernandez was designated for assignment. The 40 man roster is currently down to 39 players.

Tyler Black, Bradley Blalock recalled

Tyler Black is up for his second stint with the big league club this year. In his first stint, Black hit .227 (5-for-22) with two doubles, two stolen bases, and a .579 OPS. The first baseman/third baseman has been hitting the ball well since going back to Nashville. On the season for the Sounds, Black is hitting .275 with nine homers, 11 stolen bases, and a .857 OPS.

Black's standout ability is his bat-to-ball skills. He has some improving power, but it's not a large part of his game and he has plus speed. He was a Comp A selection by the Brewers in the 2021 Draft, taken after Sal Frelick.

Bradley Blalock is also back up for his second stint with the Brewers, although he's yet to make his MLB debut. He was recalled for the Marlins series last month, but did not get into a game and was optioned back down to Double-A Biloxi shortly after. On the year for the Shuckers, Blalock has a 4.24 ERA in 51 IP with 41 Ks and 17 BBs.

Blalock was doing much better earlier in the year but has hit a rough patch in June. In his three starts this month, Blalock has a 9.82 ERA for Double-A Biloxi.

Blalock already held a 40 man roster spot, however, which gives him a leg up for promotion opportunities. He appears in line for some bullpen chances during this call up to the majors rather than getting a starting opportunity. Still, that doesn't mean an opening in the rotation won't pop up and if one does, Blalock is going to be in consideration.

Elieser Hernandez was roughed up in the 9th inning on Tuesday night. Because he had five years of service time, Hernandez did not have minor league options, meaning he had to be designated for assignment to be removed from the roster. He has seven days to go through waivers. Hernandez could be claimed, outrighted to Triple-A, or elect free agency.

Oliver Dunn is hitting just .221 with a .597 OPS on the year. He's struck out 40 times in 104 plate appearances with just six walks.