Sal Frelick's recent struggles have sparked debate among Brewers fans and analysts alike. With a decline in offensive performance and defensive concerns, the question arises: should the Brewers give up on Frelick? This article delves into the complexities of Frelick's situation, offering a comprehensive analysis and personal commentary.
Offensive Struggles
Frelick's 2026 season has been characterized by poor exit velocities, barrel percentage, and hard-hit percentage, all ranking in the bottom 10%. However, this isn't a new trend. His 2025 season, which saw him hit .288/.351/.405, was also marred by similar issues. The key difference lies in his ground ball percentage, which has increased significantly this year, contributing to a lower BABIP.
Despite a high square-up percentage, Frelick's slow bat and tendency to hit over the top of balls result in poor launch angles and a high ground ball percentage. This combination of factors makes it challenging for him to maximize his potential. The author emphasizes that Frelick's low exit velocity and barrel percentage leave him with little room for error, and his grounders are less likely to find gaps in the infield.
Defensive Concerns
The defensive metrics paint an even more alarming picture. Frelick's Outs Above Average (OAA) has dropped significantly, placing him in the 28th percentile via Statcast's metric. This is a stark contrast to his 85th percentile ranking in 2025. Range and arm strength have also diminished, raising concerns about his overall defensive capabilities.
The author speculates that Frelick's defensive decline might be due to an injury, possibly affecting his upper body. The speculation is supported by Frelick's reaction to pain during games and the potential connection to his oblique injury. However, the author acknowledges the lack of clear evidence and the need for further investigation.
A Case for Patience
Despite the concerns, the author advocates for patience with Frelick. At 26 years old, he has two years of solid major-league experience and a 3.6 fWAR last season. The author highlights Frelick's positive attributes, including his work ethic and status as Pat Murphy's favorite. They also point out signs of improvement, such as his .303/.378/.394 performance in June.
The author concludes by emphasizing the importance of giving Frelick a chance to turn things around. They argue that Frelick is a valuable part of the Brewers' past and future, and his struggles should not be a reason to abandon him. The author's personal perspective is clear: Frelick deserves the opportunity to prove himself, and the Brewers should not rush to make any drastic changes.
