Brewers Must Decide on Jackson Chourio Before MLB Season Starts
With Opening Day days away, the Brewers face a clear roster question. They must decide whether to move Jackson Chourio into center field before the MLB season starts.
Why the outfield puzzle exists
Milwaukee has not locked in a regular center fielder. Garett Mitchell and Brandon Lockridge are the current frontrunners.
Neither combines the offensive profile the club needs. Both are valued primarily for their defense.
Mitchell and Lockridge in spring
Mitchell returned from shoulder surgery and logged 12 spring games. He collected four hits and struck out 20 times.
Lockridge showed more pop over 15 games. He had 13 hits and four home runs, but his bat projects as complementary.
Jackson Chourio’s case
Chourio has spent most of his pro career in left field. He has center experience, however.
In 2025 he made 89 appearances in 131 games in center. He also posted back-to-back 20/20 seasons.
Spring workload and form
Chourio’s spring was limited after winning the World Baseball Classic with Venezuela. He appeared in nine spring games.
In those games he had eight hits and hit .296. His bat remains a key asset for Milwaukee.
Jake Bauers and lineup balance
Jake Bauers pushed for an everyday role this spring. In 14 games he hit .457/.578/1.114.
That surge followed a strong finish to the 2025 regular season and postseason. Giving Bauers full-time duty would boost run production.
Potential roster move and impact
Shifting Chourio to center would clear left field for Bauers. Mitchell and Lockridge could become depth pieces focused on defense.
That alignment would preserve Chourio’s bat in the lineup. It would also address Milwaukee’s need for consistent outfield offense.
Managerial outlook
Manager Pat Murphy has not publicly committed to a plan. No final decision has been announced before Opening Day.
The club faces pressure to find a creative solution. Fans will watch spring performances closely this week.
This story was first published by Filmogaz.com on Mar 25, 2026.
