:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53662241/647261838.0.jpg)
Much of Orlando Arcia's perceived value as a prospect is tied to his defensive abilities. Unfortunately, he's a young player, and even gifted young players make mistakes.
Arcia made two errors on the same play in the 5th inning, allowing two runs to score on Neftali Feliz, giving the Reds a 4-0 lead. It’s a shame, because Arcia also showed off his plus defensive skills in the same game, according to those who could see it in person:
Consecutive superlative defensive plays here in the second inning by SS Orlando Arcia. Flashing his great range and accurate arm.
— Todd Rosiak (@Todd_Rosiak) March 12, 2017
Unfortunately, the defensive gaffes overshadowed what was a very encouraging start by Jimmy Nelson, who allowed just one hit over 3 innings, didn't walk anyone and struck out four. Even more encouraging? Nelson induced five ground outs and no fly outs.
Joba Chamberlain came on in relief in the fourth inning and allowed three hits, but escaped with only one run allowed.
It was when Feliz got on the mound where things got dicey. While Arcia's defense didn't help, Feliz once again struggled, working around two hits in addition to the balky infield play. In three spring appearances so far, the Brewers' expected closer has surrendered 4 hits and 4 runs, although only 2 of those runs have been earned.
The Brewers' bats were also quiet for most of this one, which makes sense considering Brewer Killer Bronson Arroyo got the start for Cincinnati. Milwaukee didn't score until the 7th inning, when Lewis Brinson continued his case for Brewers Cactus League MVP with an RBI double to drive in Ryan Cordell to make it 4-1.
Milwaukee tried to make a rally in the 8th, loading the bases on singles by Art Charles, Jr. and Dustin Houle and a HBP to Michael Reed. Unfortunately, they couldn't capitalize, with Cordell flying out and Brett Phillips getting called out on strikes to end the inning.
Isan Diaz led off the 9th with a solo home run to cut the deficit to 4-2, but the Brewers couldn't make any more magic happen, ending the game with the would-be go-ahead run at the plate.
The Cactus Crew falls to 9-8 this spring and will host the Cactus League-leading Mariners at 3:05 p.m. CDT tomorrow.