Stolen Bases: A Foundation of Aggression
Entering the 2025 season, the Brewers have carried over their aggressive base-running philosophy from the previous year. As of early March, they are tied with the Kansas City Royals for the most stolen bases in the league, with 25 steals. This marks a continuation of the Brewers’ emphasis on speed, a strategy that served them well in 2024, when they finished second in stolen bases with 217.
The Brewers’ base-running game isn’t just about one or two standout players; it’s a team-wide effort. 15 different players have already stolen a base for Milwaukee this spring. The likes of Jackson Chourio, Sal Frelick, and Joey Ortiz have each stolen three bases, setting the tone for a season that could once again see the Brewers among the league leaders in this category. This high-pressure, aggressive approach on the bases not only adds excitement to the game but also puts constant pressure on opposing defenses.
A Legacy of Speed and Success
The Brewers’ emphasis on speed isn’t new. In 2024, five players finished the season with 20 or more stolen bases, a rare feat that underscored their commitment to being a top-tier base-running team. Brice Turang led the charge with a remarkable 50 stolen bases, a number that could be matched or even exceeded in 2025, depending on his continued development.
Other key players like Blake Perkins (23 stolen bases in 2024), Jackson Chourio (22 stolen bases), and Christian Yelich (21 stolen bases) are expected to be just as active on the base paths in 2025. Additionally, Sal Frelick (18 stolen bases) and Garrett Mitchell (11 stolen bases) are likely to see their stolen base totals rise as they gain more experience and confidence. This combination of youth and experience gives the Brewers a strong base-running core that can make a difference all season long.
Home Runs: Power Surge from Milwaukee
While the Brewers are known for their speed, they are also showing impressive power this spring, leading MLB with 25 home runs. This strong showing at the plate could help balance the team’s overall offensive attack, as the Brewers aim to become a more well-rounded offense in 2025. This power surge comes on the heels of a relatively average home run performance in 2024, where Milwaukee finished in the middle of the pack in terms of long balls. The current spring success indicates that the Brewers could be ready to turn the corner and become more of a power-hitting team moving forward.
Rhys Hoskins and Vinny Capra have been at the forefront of the Brewers’ home-run barrage, each belting four home runs so far this spring. Hoskins, who was brought in to provide a boost to the Brewers’ offense, has already shown his ability to hit for power, and his success could be a key factor in the team’s ability to contend. Capra, known for his versatility and bat speed, has also been a key contributor, and his hot start adds another layer of depth to Milwaukee’s lineup.
The Impact of Caleb Durbin and Other Emerging Talents
In addition to Hoskins and Capra, Caleb Durbin has been another standout for the Brewers, hitting two home runs so far this spring. Durbin’s power is still developing, but his potential to add more long balls to the Brewers’ offensive arsenal is an exciting development. The addition of players like Durbin only adds to the team’s increasing depth, which will be crucial in navigating the grind of a 162-game season.
The Brewers’ balance of speed and power positions them as a serious threat to opposing teams. With players capable of stealing bases in bunches and others providing consistent power, Milwaukee’s offense could prove difficult to stop in 2025.
Manager Pat Murphy’s Influence
Pat Murphy, now in his second year as the Brewers’ manager, has played a significant role in shaping the team’s approach to offense. After joining the Brewers in 2016 as bench coach under Craig Counsell, Murphy has become a key figure in the team’s offensive development. His collegiate approach to the game, emphasizing competition, hustle, and athleticism, has resonated with the players. The aggressive base-running strategy and power-hitting focus are direct reflections of his philosophy, and the team has embraced this style wholeheartedly.
Murphy’s leadership has helped foster a sense of accountability and hunger among the players. He encourages them to stay aggressive and take risks, whether on the base paths or at the plate. His ability to instill this mindset in his players has been instrumental in the Brewers’ offensive resurgence.
Health and Consistency as Key Factors
While the Brewers’ offensive approach looks promising, health and consistency will be key factors in determining how successful the team is in 2025. Players like Christian Yelich and Garrett Mitchell will need to stay healthy and perform at a high level for the team to continue competing. Yelich, once an MVP candidate, has shown flashes of his old self in recent years, but injuries have hampered his full potential. If he can remain healthy, his presence at the top of the lineup will be a major boost for the Brewers.
Similarly, Garrett Mitchell’s development is crucial to the team’s success. A promising young outfielder, Mitchell has the tools to be an all-around contributor, and if he can stay healthy and refine his game, he could provide additional speed and power in the lineup.
Rhys Hoskins’ Power Could Be a Game Changer
One of the most significant additions to the Brewers’ lineup this spring is Rhys Hoskins. The former Philadelphia Phillies slugger has been brought in to provide a reliable source of power, and his impact has already been felt. His four home runs this spring are a testament to his ability to hit for power, and if he continues to produce at that level, Hoskins could become the centerpiece of the Brewers’ offense.
Hoskins’ ability to anchor the middle of the lineup would allow other players like Chourio, Yelich, and Mitchell to thrive around him. His presence provides stability and protection for the other hitters, making the Brewers’ offense more potent overall. His success will be a critical factor in determining how far Milwaukee can go in 2025.
Jackson Chourio’s Growth and Future Impact
Another exciting development for the Brewers is the continued growth of Jackson Chourio, one of the top young prospects in baseball. Chourio has already shown his ability to impact the game with both his bat and his legs, stealing bases and hitting for power. If he can continue to progress and live up to his potential, Chourio has the tools to become a superstar in the making.
The Brewers are hoping that Chourio’s development will continue, and if he can take a leap forward this season, he could become one of the most dynamic players in MLB. His combination of speed and power gives the Brewers a potential MVP candidate, which could elevate the team’s offense to new heights.
The Brewers’ Balanced Offensive Attack
Ultimately, the Brewers’ offensive strength lies in their balance. The combination of speed and power provides them with a versatile approach that can adapt to different situations. Whether it’s stealing bases to manufacture runs or hitting home runs to power the offense, Milwaukee’s approach is well-rounded and difficult to defend against.
As the 2025 season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Brewers’ offense evolves. If the team can stay healthy and continue to perform at a high level, the Brewers could be poised for a breakout season. With manager Pat Murphy at the helm and a roster full of talented, hungry players, Milwaukee’s offense looks ready to make a significant impact in the National League.
Looking Ahead to the Regular Season
The Brewers’ spring performance offers plenty of optimism for the regular season. Their offensive balance, coupled with a strong pitching staff, gives them the tools to compete at a high level. If players like Yelich, Mitchell, Hoskins, and Chourio can stay healthy and continue to improve, the Brewers’ offense could be one of the most dangerous in the league.
As the regular season approaches, all eyes will be on Milwaukee to see if they can translate their spring success into sustained performance throughout the year. If they do, the Brewers could make a serious run at the playoffs and potentially beyond, with their dynamic offense leading the charge.