Milwaukee Brewers: Studs And Duds From A Bad Month Of May

After a rip-roaring start to the 2023 season that included going 18-10 in April and being the last team in the Major Leagues to lose back-to-back games, the Milwaukee Brewers had a very bad month of May. Overall they went 11-16 and managed just two series wins.

Injuries have been a big story line for this team and they have had to call upon several players for contributions. Internally Colin Rea is getting a good look in the starting rotation and more recently infielders Andruw Monasterio and Abraham Toro have been promoted. To fill out the rotation Julio Teheran was brought in and has been a pleasant addition through his first two starts.

Let's take a look at some of the Brewers studs and duds from the month of May

Stud: Owen Miller

Seemingly out of nowhere Owen Miller forced himself into the Brewers lineup by collecting hits and being versatile defensively. He led the team in hits (29) and doubles (7) while posting an impressive .363/.395/.600/.995 slash line over 80 at-bats. During this month he had streaks of 13 games with a hit and 22 games of reaching base safely. He is now an everyday player and has earned the opportunity to continue, even when Luis Urias and Willy Adames return from injury.

Dud: Joey Wiemer

The second full month of the season was not kind to rookie Joey Wiemer. His defense in centerfield has kept him in the lineup, but offensively he hit for a .160 batting average, had a .190 on base percentage, and struck out in 35% of his plate appearances. While getting consistent at-bats may be the best way for him to learn, if he does not start getting results soon a shakeup may have to be made.

Stud: Joel Payamps

As a forgotten acquisition in the three team trade that also landed the Brewers William Contreras, Joel Payamps has been incredible in the bullpen this year. He had a strong month of May that featured 14 innings pitched, 20 strikeouts, one walked batter, and a 1.93 ERA. His ability to strand inherited runners is also worth noting and he is a clear high leverage reliever at this point.

Dud: Tyrone Taylor

After missing all of spring training with an elbow injury and completing a short minor league rehab stint, the bat has not yet gotten going for Tyrone Taylor. His numbers are quite similar to Joey Wiemer and include a .167 batting average, .187 on base percentage, and 26% strike out rate. He is out of minor league options, so if he continues to struggle his future with Milwaukee could come to an end.

Hopefully Milwaukee can turn things around and return to their winnings ways in June.