Milwaukee Brewers: Ranking 25 most important players in playoffs

#20 OF Curtis Granderson

One of the more underrated moves of the August transactions, Granderson has been the veteran presence that an inconsistent team needed as the month turned. He’s been a steady, intelligent player on the field, and a leader in the dugout. His professionalism and experience in the playoffs combined with his play in Milwaukee gives him the fourth outfielder position in the postseason.

#19 RHP Zach Davies

Now that he’s finally healthy, Davies is looking like the player Brewer fans came to know and love in 2016 and 2017. With his ability to limit hard contact and paint the corners, like Kyle Hendricks in Chicago, he’s a better option than Anderson for the fourth starter spot in a seven game series. His unflappable nature also prepares him for a playoff game as well.

#18 C Erik Kratz

It’s likely the catchers will continue to platoon depending on who’s starting on the mound, so we lump them together here. Kratz is only behind Pina because of the defensive advantage that Pina has over him, but the wily veteran has earned his spot on this team with a breakout season. Dependable and intelligent, the modern day Crash Davis will provide an October moment or two.

#17 C Manny Pina

Like above, Pina and Kratz will split time, but the Pineapple brings more of the high-end play when he’s hot, so he’s ranked just higher. With his rocket arm and power bat, don’t be surprised to see Pina get some more time later in the playoffs if his bat heats up again.

#16 RHP Corbin Burnes

The Brewers Rookie of the Year will conclude his only season in the bullpen as a key fireman for the team. Burnes has a vital role in the bullpen, as a guy who can cover multiple innings if needed, or inherit a jam and escape. Again, versatility is his key to the playoff roster.