Former Brewers first-rounder crushing it in minors

Ethan Small Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Former Brewers first-rounder beginning to sizzle on Triple-A mound

Originally posted on WI Sports Heroics | By Tyler Koerth_ | Last updated 5/3/23

In 2019 the Milwaukee Brewers selected left-handed starting pitching prospect Ethan Small with the 28th selection in the MLB Draft. The Mississippi State product quickly impressed in the minor leagues before struggling through a tough 2022 season at Triple-A Nashville -- as well as in limited big league opportunities.

Command was a major issue for Small in 2022. He walked 58 batters in 103 innings pitched while pitching for Triple-A Nashville and saw his ERA inflate to 4.46. During spring training, he talked about those struggles and how he fought mechanical, mental, and confidence issues. His transition into the bullpen was also a topic of conversation.

The Brewers plan for Small this year was a full transition into the 'pen. That has held to form this season, with the southpaw seeing use in both single and multi-inning situations. He is also seeing success.

Through nine appearances and 13 1/3 innings pitched this season, Small has pitched to a 2.70 ERA with 21 strikeouts. He has walked seven in that space while collecting one save and one hold for the Sounds.

On the mound, Small's changeup appears to be back. Per Nashville Sounds play-by-play announcer Jeff Hem, Small recently had a three-inning outing where batters whiffed on 50 percent of his changeups. His strike percentage in that contest was 73.

Out of 15 change-ups tonight: 73% strike percentage and 50% whiff rate. And many of the whiffs were awkward swings. Fun to watch. https://t.co/OJHw8YIn9N

— Jeff Hem (@JeffHemPBP) May 4, 2023

The Milwaukee Brewers left-handed relief pitching depth is thin and if Small can continue to perform well down on the farm, he could earn a promotion to the big leagues at some point in the weeks and months ahead.

This article first appeared on WI Sports Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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