This unexpected Brewer could be a critical part of the infield down the stretch

The Milwaukee Brewers made an unconventional roster move when activating Rhys Hoskins from the injured list and choosing to carry three first basemen for the final stretch of the season. Andrew Vaughn, who stepped up in a big way during Hoskins’ absence, is expected to continue seeing regular at-bats. Meanwhile, Jake Bauers has shown signs of resurgence at the plate, making him a valuable left-handed option off the bench, especially in pinch-hit situations, where he proved his worth during last year’s postseason with a clutch late-game go-ahead home run during game three of the Wild Card Series.

This decision means Hoskins will initially have a diminished role with the Brewers, but that could change over the next few weeks. It also leaves Milwaukee's infield a bit short-handed, as with Anthony Seigler being optioned down. The only "true" backup at second base, shortstop, and third base is Andruw Monasterio.

It's clear Milwaukee has been thinking about this scenario beforehand, as for a while now, Vaughn and Isaac Collins have been getting practice reps at third base. Collins actually saw game action at the position on Monday night, entering as a pinch hitter for Durbin and then replacing him in the infield.

Interestingly, Collins' track record suggests he could play a key role in the infield down the stretch for the Brewers, despite spending most of the season in left field, where he’s performed exceptionally well.

Isaac Collins could be a critical piece of the Milwaukee Brewers infield down the stretch

Collins was originally drafted by the Colorado Rockies as a second baseman out of Creighton University. During his first three minor league seasons, he played exclusively at second base and in the outfield before adding third base to his repertoire in 2023. Though he has just 118.2 career innings at the hot corner, that experience may prove crucial now, as Milwaukee's best lineup down the stretch could feature Collins at third base.

How much the Brewers trust Collins at third base could shape their optimal lineup down the stretch. While Caleb Durbin has been strong defensively at the position, Collins offers more offensive upside. If Milwaukee prioritizes run production, they could slot Collins at third, shift Christian Yelich back to left field, and rotate Andrew Vaughn and Rhys Hoskins between first base and designated hitter.

This lineup maximizes offensive firepower without sacrificing too much defensively, especially if Collins proves steady at third. With time left in the regular season, Milwaukee has the flexibility to test out this setup, if they choose. It’s certainly a lineup worth exploring now, because come October, it could be the kind of high-impact group they’d feel confident rolling out in a win-or-go-home scenario.