This overlooked Brewers prospect seems poised for a 2026 spring training breakout

One downside of the Milwaukee Brewers boasting such a deep farm system is how easy it is to focus on the top-tier prospects like Jesús Made, Luis Peña, Cooper Pratt, and others as they climb the ladder. In doing so, it’s easy to overlook a group of still-elite prospects who, while not ranked as highly, are much closer to making meaningful strides toward a potential MLB debut.

One player who fits that bill is outfielder Luis Lara, who finished 2025 ranked 14th overall in MLB Pipeline's Top 30 Brewers prospects rankings. Now 21 years old, the 2022 international signee from Venezuela had a stellar 2025 season in Double-A; Lara won a minor league Gold Glove award, was just the eighth player since 2005 age 21 or younger to have a 30 extra base hit and 30 stolen base season, and is positioned well for a breakout in spring training this year during his second invite to big league camp as a non-roster invitee.

Luis Lara could turn some heads during the Milwaukee Brewers' 2026 spring training

Each year, particularly early in camp, young Brewers non-roster invitees receive opportunities to showcase their talent in spring training games. Lara got those chances last season, but could see an increased role this year, as 2026 represents the final season before he becomes eligible for selection in the offseason's Rule 5 Draft if he isn't added to Milwaukee's 40-man roster.

With a potential increase in usage, Lara won't turn heads by crushing long balls or high exit velocities; rather, he works counts well, gets on base, uses his legs, and isn't afraid to put his body on the line defensively. A season ago, the switch hitter walked 14.1% of the time compared to 16.2% strikeouts, while slashing .256/.369/.343 with 44 stolen bases.

He's the type of high-floor player that the Brewers have prioritized in recent years. His value on the field will always be lifted by the fact that he's an elite defender in the outfield and can impact the game with his legs on the basepaths.

Ultimately, the upcoming season represents a pivotal moment in Lara’s development. With increased exposure in spring training and the clock ticking toward Rule 5 eligibility, he’ll have a clear opportunity to show he belongs in the Brewers’ long-term plans. How he handles himself in spring could go a long way in determining whether he’s viewed as organizational depth or as a legitimate piece of Milwaukee’s future outfield.