At 27, left‑hander Aaron Ashby has emerged as one of the most reliable relievers for the Milwaukee Brewers, posting an 8‑0 record and a 2.17 earned‑run average that place him among the league’s elite.
The Making of a Bullpen Ace
Ashby’s roots trace back to Kansas City, where he grew up watching his uncle, former big‑leaguer Andy Ashby, dream of a major‑league career. The familial connection has given the young pitcher a unique perspective that he credits for his composure on the mound.
In his last eight appearances he has fanned at least one batter each time, allowing just three hits to 54 opposing hitters while surrendering a single home run all season. His 36.4% strikeout rate and 58.1% ground‑ball rate underline a dominance that has drawn comparisons to historic relievers.
What sets Ashby apart is his pitch mix. His slider and curveball have each produced 16 strikeouts this year, with whiff rates of 70.4% and 61.5% respectively. Even his changeup, his favorite offering, induces a 56.3% whiff rate, while his fastball can still touch 98 mph.
Under the guidance of bullpen coach Pat Murphy, Ashby has become the go‑to option in high‑leverage moments, a role that reflects both his skill set and the trust placed in him by the coaching staff.
Looking ahead, the left‑hander is on pace to log 100 innings this season, a milestone that would cement his status as a workhorse. With a 1.31 WHIP and a .361 opponent BABIP, his numbers suggest a sustainable performance that could see him featured in discussions of the best closers, despite primarily operating as a setup man.