Nashville Sounds ace and Milwaukee Brewers # 7 prospect was scratched from his start on Wednesday, prompting a fire drill from Brewers fans on social media. And why wouldn’t they? With quotes from Brewers manager Craig Counsell that seemed to point to a call-up sooner than later, fans would be on edge.
The news of the lefty’s absence had many journalists and fans alike drawing up scenarios for Small’s entry into the Milwaukee clubhouse. The Nashville Sounds’ Twitter was less than forthcoming, and more than coy about Small’s status. Knowing the level of intensity Milwaukee sports fans demonstrate behind their athletes, this could have been made clearer.
Ethan Small was indeed scheduled to pitch on Wednesday, but a little more than an hour prior to first pitch, he was scratched for Thomas Jankins. When asked by a fan on Twitter, this is what Sounds Twitter had to say.
I could be asking a lot here, but I do feel that the response could have been more verbose. “He was scheduled but has been scratched due to illness.” would have been great. The big excitedment turned into a bitter letdown as Sounds’ play by play announcer Jeff Hem finally declared after first pitch that Ethan Small had been scratched due to non-COVID related illness. The same illness presumably that has been affecting Keston Hiura.
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Time will tell when we will finally see Small in Milwaukee and it’s anyone’s guess in which capacity. The starting rotation is firmly in place, while there are spots in the bullpen that have revolving door capability. LHP’s Aaron Ashby and Hoby Milner are in two very different roles, but it’s unclear whether or simply when Counsell and company will opt to bring in another lefty.
Small is currently the number one pitcher in arguably the best pitching staff in Triple A. He is 3-1 with a 1.95 ERA in 7 starts.
About the Author
Billy Graves is the host of the Hit City Podcast, covering the Milwaukee Brewers and MiLB affiliates. You can also find him on the Slashers & Screamers podcast, reviewing your favorite horror films from years past and present, and on the Monday morning show Wake Up! with Wowie & The Kid. Find out more at SlasherSports.com!
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