The Case for Cooper Pratt's Promotion
The Milwaukee Brewers' infield has been a work in progress, and it's time to bring in the big guns. With a recent lucrative contract and a promising future, Cooper Pratt is the answer to the team's third-base dilemma.
Addressing the Weakness
The Brewers' infield, particularly third base, has been a concern since the departure of key players like Caleb Durbin and Andruw Monasterio. While the team has some talented prospects, they weren't quite ready for the big leagues. This led to the acquisition of Luis Rengifo, a seasoned player, as a temporary fix.
Rengifo, however, has struggled to live up to expectations. Despite my initial analysis suggesting a potential turnaround, his offensive and defensive contributions have been underwhelming. The team's defensive rankings, depending on the metric, paint a mixed picture, but Rengifo's individual performance is undeniable.
The Pratt Solution
Enter Cooper Pratt, a young talent with a bright future. His recent performance at Double-A has been impressive, showing significant growth at the plate. While he might face initial struggles, his defensive prowess is undeniable, with scouting grades giving him high marks.
The solution I propose is a strategic platoon. By cutting Rengifo and moving David Hamilton and Joey Ortiz to a third-base platoon, we free up the shortstop position for Pratt. This not only strengthens the defense but also provides a much-needed boost to the team's overall performance.
Why the Urgency?
The Brewers' success this season has provided a buffer, but it's crucial to act now. Rengifo's contract includes bonuses for plate appearances, which only adds to the team's expenses without significant returns. Moreover, the longer we wait, the less time Pratt has to adapt to major league pitching, potentially affecting his readiness for the postseason.
Some might argue for an external solution, but I believe the answer lies within the organization. With upcoming prospects like Pratt and Jett Williams, trading for a third baseman seems unnecessary. Pratt's recent improvement and Williams' struggles make him the obvious choice.
A Word on Luis Lara
Luis Lara, who signed a similar contract to Pratt's, is also in the mix. However, his shorter track record and playing time considerations make him a secondary option. With players like Garrett Mitchell and Sal Frelick showing promise, Lara's promotion can wait.
Personally, I believe the Brewers should act swiftly. Rengifo's performance isn't just a statistical concern; it's a strategic one. By promoting Pratt, the team not only fills a positional need but also gains a player with the potential to become a cornerstone of their infield for years to come. This is a move that not only addresses an immediate problem but also sets the stage for long-term success.
