Milwaukee Brewers shortstop Cooper Pratt played in his second MLB game on Wednesday and had some memorable moments. He had two hits, one run scored, one RBI and one stolen base, all of which were career firsts. He was a key piece to the team's 9-4 win over the Cleveland Guardians.
Before his MLB debut on Tuesday, though, his teammates had some fun with the rookie. Typically, before the first pitch, the starters for the home team all run out together to their respective positions. However, the Brewers sent Pratt out first, and nobody followed, leaving him all alone on the field.
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Fortunately, he found humor in the pre-game antics, brushing off the moment as just some rookie hazing. On Thursday, Pratt appeared on "MLB Network," praising his teammates for the welcoming atmosphere.
“I met all these guys in, most of them in 2024, first big league spring training, and then last year I got to get to know a lot of them a lot better, got to play more games and stuff,” Pratt said. “I know all the guys, they’re all super awesome. All super open arms, if I need anything, they’re all super willing and super nice guys.”
As for the prank, Pratt also revealed that he was originally planning on running out of the dugout last. However, it was Brewers second baseman Brice Turang who told the rookie to leave first.
While building up a relationship with his new teammates, the shortstop faces pressure to perform at a high level. He signed an eight-year, $50.75 million contract with Milwaukee in April. Under contract through 2033, the Brewers also have $15 million club options in 2034 and 2035.
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As the No. 63 prospect, according to MLB.com, Pratt is already making an immediate impact for a Brewers team that holds a 5.5-game lead in the National League Central.
