The Milwaukee Brewers could soon face a difficult rotation decision after Brandon Sproat struggled again Monday night against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Following the game, manager Pat Murphy revealed he, president of baseball operations Matt Arnold and Sproat planned to meet to discuss the rookie's future, according to Brewers beat writer Curt Hogg.
The discussion comes as Milwaukee prepares to welcome two starting pitchers back into the rotation this week, creating a crowded pitching staff despite holding first place in the National League Central. The Brewers entered Monday with a 69-43 record, maintaining a 5.5-game lead over the Chicago Cubs.
The timing puts added attention on Sproat, whose recent performances have coincided with the club's roster changes following the MLB trade deadline.
Sproat has gone 3-7 with a 5.27 ERA across 21 appearances, including 19 starts, this season. The 25-year-old has recorded 100 strikeouts over 95.2 innings but has also issued 48 walks and allowed 17 home runs.
His latest outing against Pittsburgh lasted only three innings after he surrendered four earned runs on five hits and two walks. Murphy removed the rookie during the fourth inning after Sproat uncorked three wild pitches, capping another difficult start.
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The Brewers expect both Kyle Harrison and newly acquired Dustin May to join the rotation this week, further tightening the competition for starting spots. Harrison is set to return after completing a rehab assignment, while May is expected to make his Milwaukee debut following his deadline acquisition.
Milwaukee's front office now must determine whether Sproat remains in the major league rotation or benefits from additional development elsewhere. With the Brewers firmly in control of the division race, every rotation spot carries increased importance as the club prepares for the stretch run.
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