Matt Arnold and the Milwaukee Brewers are thrilled to have acquired pitcher DL Hall in their trade with the Baltimore Orioles. It will be challenging to replace Corbin Burnes and his output every fifth day, but some MLB analysts believe that Hall was the key to the trade and that he can establish himself as a mainstay in their starting rotation for the next five to six years.
The Brewers also acquired infielder Joey Ortiz in addition to Hall. Although Ortiz hasn’t had much opportunity to show off his attacking abilities, he already possesses the defensive skill set necessary to compete in the major leagues. He achieved remarkable success in the lesser leagues.
Which additional Baltimore Orioles prospects are there that the Milwaukee Brewers may have pursued?
Milwaukee has a ton of potential, but it’s unclear from rumors that they were looking at any additional players from the Orioles’ top-ranked farm system. In addition to being their top prospect, Jackson Holiday also holds the #1 spot on the majority of prospect rating boards.
To complete their top five after Holiday are catcher Samuel Basallo, outfielder Colton Cowser, infielder Coby Mayo, and outfielder Heston Kjerstad. Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson are examples of players who have progressed beyond the prospect stage.
Related: The Milwaukee Brewers farm system is ranked highest in the last two decades.
DL Hall was asked which Orioles prospect, outside of the well-known players, fans should keep a watch on on Foul Territory TV. In response, he named Joey Ortiz, the player he was packaged with in the Corbin Burnes deal.
Joey Ortiz is one (prospect) who, in my opinion, was undoubtedly overlooked. Even though he is still regarded as one of the top 100 prospects, Gunner Henderson and Jackson Holiday are undoubtedly two exceptional players who were somewhat obstructing Joey. I can’t wait to watch him play every day and demonstrate to the world his true potential at the major league level.
Where will Joey Ortiz fit in the Milwaukee Brewers roster?
A defensive mastermind, Joey Ortiz is capable of covering shortstop, second base, and third base. Throughout the season, the Brewers’ plans for him may vary depending on what happens with shortstop Willy Adames. Adames is about to enter his last season under team control, has probably overpriced himself out of Milwaukee’s budget, and may be dealt at any point between now and July.
It’s encouraging to hear DL Hall’s opinions about Joey Ortiz for Brewers supporters. If you look at Ortiz’s numbers, admit that he has good power upside, and consider his defensive versatility, it’s easy to see why Hall brought him up. Of course, he may have just been saying it since they were packaged together.
