As the Brewers gear up for Opening Day at American Family Field against the Chicago White Sox, they're entering the season with a relatively clean bill of health compared to other teams. While there are a few injuries, they’re mostly minor, setting a positive tone for the start of the season. Let's dive into the highlights and lowlights from their spring training in Arizona, spotlighting a standout starting pitcher, a reliever, and a hitter.
Who's Hot?
Jake Bauers
Jake Bauers is on fire, and his spring performance is a testament to that. With an OPS exceeding 1.700, Bauers has been scorching at the plate.
His slash line of .471/.581/1.147 is the stuff of dreams. Coming off a late-season surge in 2025, Bauers went 16-for-34, launching six homers and driving in eight runs.
His balanced approach at the plate, with seven walks and seven strikeouts, shows he's locked in. Sharing first base duties with Andrew Vaughn, Bauers is poised to make a significant impact early in the season.
Aaron Ashby
Aaron Ashby has been the talk of the Brewers' pitching staff this spring. Known for his bullpen prowess, Ashby’s performance has reignited discussions about his potential role in the starting rotation.
Over four games, including two starts, he posted a stellar 1.17 ERA across 7⅔ innings, with eight strikeouts. His adaptability might be crucial, possibly sharing duties with Brandon Woodruff as the veteran ramps up his game.
Ashby’s versatility could be a game-changer for the Brewers this season.
Jacob Waguespeck
Returning stateside after a stint in Japan, Jacob Waguespeck has been a revelation. The towering right-hander, who had a brief MLB stint with the Rays, turned heads this spring with a 1.17 ERA over seven appearances. Allowing just three hits and two walks while fanning seven in 7⅔ innings, Waguespeck has positioned himself as a strong candidate for a call-up this season.
Who's Cold?
Garrett Mitchell
Center fielder Garrett Mitchell had a tough spring, hitting just 2-for-32 with a slash line of .063/.189/.188. Despite his struggles, including 15 strikeouts in 30 at-bats without a hit, Mitchell secured a spot on the Opening Day roster.
His talent is undeniable, but injuries have limited his appearances to just 113 games over the past three seasons. The Brewers are hopeful he can stay healthy and showcase his potential.
Chad Patrick
Spring training can be a mixed bag for pitchers, and Chad Patrick's experience was no exception. Working through some challenges, Patrick allowed seven runs in his final Cactus League outing against the Cubs.
His spring ended with an 11.68 ERA over 12⅓ innings, including eight walks. While he stayed in Arizona as the team returned to Milwaukee, there's hope he can adjust and find his form as the season progresses.
Mark Manfredi
Mark Manfredi, experiencing his first major-league camp, faced some growing pains. The 26-year-old lefty, who advanced quickly through the minors, struggled with a 3.30 ERA in previous seasons.
This spring, he allowed four runs over four innings, with five walks and five strikeouts in five appearances. While it wasn’t the breakout he hoped for, there's room for growth as he continues to develop in 2026.
As the Brewers prepare for the season, these performances highlight both the potential and challenges ahead. With a mix of hot streaks and areas needing improvement, the team is set to tackle the upcoming season with optimism and determination.