Brewers Make Decision on Rookie Pitcher After 'Unacceptable' Performance

The Milwaukee Brewers have decided to demote rookie right-hander Brandon Sproat to Triple-A following his poor performance in a recent game. Sproat, who was acquired from the New York Mets in a trade last offseason, has struggled to meet expectations this season, as highlighted by his 5.57 ERA across 22 appearances. He was recently sent down to the minors following the trade deadline but returned just days later.

During Wednesday's game, Sproat took a seven-run lead into the eighth inning but eventually allowed four earned runs after walking the first three batters he faced. Manager Pat Murphy expressed dissatisfaction, stating that if a pitcher cannot throw strikes, they cannot be a major-league pitcher. Sproat's walk rate, currently at 12.3%, is among the worst in MLB.

The Brewers, who boast one of the deepest pitching staffs in the league, will not be significantly impacted by sending Sproat to Triple-A, as their pitching staff already holds the second-best ERA in MLB at 3.54. Although Sproat, 25, retains a slim chance of returning to the team before the season ends, his prospects have significantly diminished if he cannot improve his control.

The Brewers have immediately returned to action, facing the Cincinnati Reds in a three-game series starting Friday at 6:45 p.m. CT.