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Perhaps the single biggest question mark on the Brewers is whether Ruben Souffront will ever put together his obvious talents to become a viable major league player. With his exceptional speed package and above average contact and gap power ability along with at least average power, Ruben should be capable of being at least an average big leaguer, if not somewhat above average. His defense isn't gold glove caliber but should be quite sufficient. He is considered a very intelligent and hard working young man who is very well-liked in the clubhouse. And thus far, a fully inadequate player at the major league level.
Up until recently it was thought that the player who might most challenge Souffront in the next few years at this position was 19-year old Dave Manning. But recently Manning's star has dimmed a bit. It is possible that his low work ethic combined with a low morale (having played for two quite poor teams this past season) has perhaps set back his development. He still has the potential to be an above average hitter with above average power (though earlier his power potential was thought to be well above average), he is a fine defender and a great runner. And Manning put up very good numbers at the plate at class A Bainbridge last season. There is still the possibility that he will regain his upward trajectory and challenge Souffront in the next few seasons.
Another potential contender for the rightfield job in the next 3-5 years is 18-year old Andrew Knight. Like Manning, Knight is well above average defensively and a fine runner but he does not seem to have the potential at the plate that Manning still has.
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