After disappointing offensive numbers all of 2023, leading to getting swept at home in the postseason against the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Milwaukee Brewers have completely flipped the script. Not only are the bats reaching points hotter than ever, but they're also coming through in late game situations, something Milwaukee has struggled with many times in the past. Recent showings of bats coming through in clutch situations come from shortstop Willy Adames against the Kansas City Royals on May 7th, and Rhys Hoskins tonight, May 11th, against the Cardinals.

While home runs tend to take center stage, the small ball is what has been the secret weapon to success. First year Brewer manager Pat Murphy has changed Milwaukee baseball into creating more attempts at bunts, steals, and other sacrifices throughout each game. Not only are steals being attempted more frequently, but they are succeeding nearly 87% of the time (53 for 61).

The main contributor to these stolen bases? Brice Turang. After having twenty-six stolen bases in his 137 games played in his rookie year in '23, Turang has already collected sixteen in 36 games this season. The mix of small ball, as well as snagging bags left and right makes the Brew Crew one of the tougher teams to get out.

Even with the talks of small ball, nothing can overshadow what William Contreras has done to get this Milwaukee offense to where they are. Since earning his first career Silver Slugger last season, Contraras has only gotten better. In his 39 games played, the 26-year-old is slashing .342/.427/.526 with 5 home runs and 30 runs batted in. Backing him up with strong, consistent offensive production is Willy Adames. Also playing in all 39 games this season, Adames is slashing .265/.349/.470 with 7 home runs and 27 runs batted in.

The two headed monster of Contreras and Adames could soon turn into a three header if former MVP Christian Yelich can stay healthy. After missing 23 straight games with back tightness, the left-hander returned to the lineup on May 8th against the Kansas City Royals. In his minimal time played this season of 14 games, Yelich has slashed .346/.414/.692 totaling 5 home runs and 13 runs batted in.

Now, while there are 162 games in a season for a reason, Milwaukee faithful has been rather pleased with what they have seen from these bats to start the season.

Milwaukee Brewers Team Hitting Stats Among MLB Ranks