A Former Brewers Ace Finds New Career in the Coaching Ranks

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dave Gasper | Last updated Apr 16, 2025 7:01 AM ET

The last several years have certainly been tumultuous for former Brewers right-hander Jimmy Nelson. Nelson was a highly touted prospect, a 2nd round pick in 2010, who worked his way up to be a regular in the Milwaukee Brewers starting rotation for a couple of years.

Finally, he started to deliver on his ace potential in 2017, putting together a 3.49 ERA and garnering Cy Young consideration, finishing in 9th place in the voting.

However, Nelson tore up his shoulder in September of that year, requiring surgery, and he would throw just 51 more innings in the big leagues. Now, Nelson embarks on a new journey.

Jimmy Nelson joins coaching staff of the Frederick Keys

Nelson continually dealt with injuries after that 2017 season and never was able to remain on the field. He last pitched in a professional game in 2023 in the minor leagues with the Dodgers.

Now Nelson appears to have officially hung up his spikes but will stay in baseball and be an assistant coach for the Frederick Keys of the MLB Draft League.

The Frederick Keys are excited to announce that Preston Wilson (@PrestonWilson44) will serve as the Keys Manager for the 2025 season! Additionally, Jimmy Nelson and Tony Diaz will serve as assistant coaches. @mlbdraftleague

More information: https://t.co/ncm5HwKBQm pic.twitter.com/2UDaEcSVZb
— Frederick Keys (@FrederickKeys) April 15, 2025

Entering the coaching ranks is a great way for Nelson to stay involved in the game. He was regarded as a very intelligent pitcher, his only issue over the last few years was his body being able to hold up. Now he'll get a chance to help mold the next generation of big league pitchers.

It's probably not the way Nelson envisioned his career going leading into 2017, likely wanting to still be playing at just 35 years old. However, it's the logical next step for a talented baseball mind.

In his six years with the Brewers, Nelson made 107 starts. He threw the only complete game of his career on Father's Day of 2017.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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