Predicting the Brewers' 2026 Spring Training MVP

Spring training signals the start of a new season and a fresh opportunity for players across the league, though for some, it carries more weight than others. For those who fell short of expectations the year before, it offers a chance to reset and turn the page. For players in new organizations, it presents an immediate opportunity to make a strong first impression. And for prospects battling for a spot on the Opening Day roster, it serves as a critical opportunity to take that next leap.

In recent years, the Milwaukee Brewers have seen players in each of those situations deliver monster spring trainings. Last year, Vinny Capra turned the page after a so-so 2024 minor league season and only a brief taste of big league action. Before that, Jesús Aguilar in 2017 and Luke Voit in 2023 each played their way onto the Opening Day roster following dominant springs, both in their first camp with the organization.

With that history in mind, the question shifts to this spring: who will seize the moment in 2026? Every camp produces a standout, a player who forces the organization’s hand with a torrid stretch at the plate or steady all-around play that’s impossible to ignore.

A strong Spring Training could propel Akil Baddoo into the Opening Day roster conversation

Up until a few days ago, when the Brewers signed catcher Gary Sanchez to a major league deal, outfielder Akil Baddoo had been their only other offseason major league free agent signing. Assuming Garrett Mitchell and Blake Perkins stay healthy throughout February and March, they are the favorites to roam center field early on this year, with Jackson Chourio returning to left field and Sal Frelick right field.

Still, a standout spring from Baddoo, who profiles best as a corner outfielder, could prompt the club to rethink its overall outfield alignment. After some early growing pains, Chourio showed last season that he’s capable of handling center field without sacrificing production at the plate.

Additionally, in the postseason, the Brewers opted for the bat of Jake Bauers over the defensive steadiness of Isaac Collins, who is no longer with the organization. Prioritizing offense over defense runs somewhat counter to the club’s traditional formula, but philosophies can shift with the right personnel and at certain times of the year.

If Baddoo can tap back into the power and speed he showcased during his 2021 rookie season, when he tallied 13 home runs, seven triples, and 20 doubles over 124 games, and harness the hunger that comes with a fresh start, a standout MVP performance this spring could build the momentum needed to jump the pecking order in the Brewers' outfield alignment.