MLB Playoffs 2017: 5 reasons Milwaukee Brewers will make it

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 19: Ryan Braun #8 of the Milwaukee Brewers celebrates with Orlando Arcia #3 after the final out in the Milwaukee Brewers 1-0 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on September 19, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

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PITTSBURGH, PA – SEPTEMBER 18: Ryan Braun #8 of the Milwaukee Brewers rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run in the fourth inning during the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on September 18, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

4. Braun, Shaw and Thames lead

Ryan Braun’s reputation was forever damaged by his use of PEDs, repeated denials and eventual positive test and suspension in 2013. Reputation is one thing, but Braun has not seen a cataclysmic drop in production even as he enters his mid-thirties. He has also been a loyal member of the Brewers organization even as the rebuild began and his name was continuously popping up in trade rumors. Now, Braun could be looking at his third playoff berth as a member of the Brewers. He has been on a tear in the month of September.

In most clubhouses, Travis Shaw would hardly qualify as an “old guy” at the age of 27. The third baseman is only in his second full MLB season after getting a late start with the Red Sox. He was solid last year, but has burst onto the scene this year with 30 home runs. Shaw should also reach 100 RBI before the end of the year. He has slumped in the second half, but could get hot at any time.

After looking like he was figured out by the rest of the league in August, Eric Thames has come roaring back. He is hitting .323/.417/.710 in September with three doubles, three home runs and 10 RBI in 13 games. If Thames can stay locked in like he was in April, the Brewers will finish the year strong and make the playoffs. Of particular interest is his .333/.435/.538 line against the Cubs this year.

The Brewers need their three biggest boppers to come up big in the final week-plus of the season. The playoffs are right there for the taking, and with a power surge from Braun, Shaw and Thames, they could storm past the Rockies.

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