The Brewers' 2026 Spring Training: A Battle for Rotation Spots
As the Milwaukee Brewers gear up for the 2026 season, the focus shifts to the intriguing battle for the final two spots in the starting rotation. With a mix of established players and promising prospects, the team is poised for an exciting season. Here's a breakdown of the candidates vying for these coveted positions, along with their strengths and potential roles.
The Contenders:
Chad Patrick: Patrick, with 27 appearances last season, including 23 starts, showcased solid performance despite a 3-8 record. His 3.53 ERA, 127 strikeouts, and 119.2 innings pitched make him a strong candidate. Patrick's postseason success, striking out six in four games, further enhances his case for a spot in the bullpen or as a middle-inning reliever.
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Logan Henderson: Henderson, a rising star, impressed in 2024 and 2025. With a 3-0 record and 25.1 innings pitched, he struck out 33 and walked just eight. His success in the minors, including a 10-4 record in Triple-A, further solidifies his case. Henderson's fastball and changeup, coupled with a developing curveball, make him a strong contender for a rotation spot.
Robert Gasser: Gasser, another left-handed option, was the International League Pitcher of the Year in 2023. His 2024 season was cut short by Tommy John surgery, but he made a strong return in 2025. Gasser's stuff and potential make him a valuable asset, and his ability to succeed at the big-league level is evident.
Carlos Rodriguez: Rodriguez, despite limited work, has shown potential. With a 1-3 record and 20 strikeouts in 22.0 innings, he's a solid contributor. His ability to vary his pitches and his young age make him a contender, especially with the endorsement of switching to a more traditional jersey number.
Brandon Sproat: Sproat, acquired in the Peralta trade, made his MLB debut in September. His electric fastball and changeup, coupled with a cutter, make him a promising prospect. Sproat's performance in the Mets' rotation and his potential to crack the Brewers' rotation make him an exciting candidate.
The Prediction:
While the competition is fierce, Chad Patrick, Kyle Harrison, and Logan Henderson emerge as the top contenders. Patrick's solid performance and role in the bullpen, Harrison's electric stuff, and Henderson's success in the minors make them strong candidates. Gasser and Sproat also bring valuable left-handed options and electric stuff, respectively, to the mix.
As Spring Training unfolds, the battle for these rotation spots will be a fascinating spectacle, with the Brewers' future hanging in the balance.
