In an exhibition matchup that served more as a showcase for prospects than a must-win game, the Brewers fell 9-8 to the Athletics. But the loss didn't overshadow some standout performances that have Milwaukee fans buzzing about the future.
Blake Burke:
Burke was the standout performer, notching the only two-hit game for the Brewers. His first hit was an RBI single that brought Luis Peña home, giving Milwaukee an early 2-0 lead.
Burke wasn't just content with his bat; he showed off his speed by swiping third base twice, totaling three steals on the day. His impressive stint in Double-A, where he posted a .300/.377/.579 line with 11 homers in just 140 at-bats, suggests that he might not be far from making his big-league debut.
Jesus Made:
Made had a mixed day. He managed just one hit in three at-bats, but it was a memorable one-a scorching 112.7 mph double off the A’s No. 2 prospect, Jamie Arnold.
However, his defensive play was shaky, with two throwing errors, one costing a run. Despite the miscues, Made continues to show why he's Milwaukee’s top prospect, consistently making an impact.
Eric Bitonti:
Bitonti's power was on full display with a monstrous home run clocked at 115.7 mph. However, his tendency to strike out remains an issue, as evidenced by one strikeout in his two at-bats.
With 19 home runs last year in Single-A, his potential is undeniable. If Bitonti can refine his approach at the plate, he could become a significant force in the lineup.
Other Notable Performances:
Andrew Fischer, Brady Ebel, and Daniel Dickinson, all 2025 draft picks, contributed hits. Ebel's clutch double tied the game at 7 in the eighth inning, while Fischer continued his strong spring, ripping a 111.3 mph double to drive in Ebel and put the Brewers ahead 8-7.
Luis Peña also made an impact early, getting the Brewers on the board with his lone hit of the game.
Pitching Struggles:
The Brewers' pitching staff had a tough day, with Ethan Dorchies and Wande Torres being the only ones to keep the Athletics off the scoreboard. Starter Tyson Hardin struggled, allowing three runs on four hits over two innings.
Brett Wichrowski followed and gave up three runs, though one was unearned due to a Made error. The Athletics clinched the win on a passed ball by Darrien Miller, despite pitcher Mark Manfredi allowing three hits and a walk in that decisive eighth inning.
Defensive Highlights:
Josh Adamczewski made a highlight-reel catch on the warning track to end the fourth inning. With a crowded infield, the Brewers are experimenting with Adamczewski in left field, and his defensive prowess is a promising sign for his versatility and future contributions.
This exhibition may not count in the standings, but it certainly provided a glimpse of the talent brewing in Milwaukee's farm system.