2013 Milwaukee Brewers: Year in Review

The Milwaukee Brewers endured a roller coaster of a 2013 calendar year that contained a little bit of everything.

Following division realignment, the Brewers found themselves in an improved, five-team NL Central Division.  At 74-88, the Crew finished eight games ahead of the rival Cubs, 23 games behind the Division Champion Cardinals, and 16 games behind the Wild Card Reds.

Following moths of internet rumors and speculation, Ryan Braun was finally suspended by Major League Baseball in July.  The suspension was the result of a positive PED test from October 2011, a documented relationship with former Biogenesis operator Anthony Bosch, and obstruction of MLB's investigation into the now-defunct Biogenesis clinic.  Braun sat for the final 65 games while his teammates strung together a 33-32 record.

2013 Milwaukee Brewers: Memorable Moments

Despite Braun's disappointing fall from grace, 2013 yielded impressive campaigns for several of his teammates.

Acquired from the Angels in July 2012, shortstop prospect Jean Segura burst onto the Milwaukee scene.  In a 2013 All-Star season, Segura swiped 44 bags and slugged 12 homers while batting .294.

Following a three-year extension signed during the offseason, center fielder Carlos Gomez put together a 2013 All-Star campaign of his own.  Carlos stole 40 bases, belted 24 homers, drove in 73 runs, and collected 12 outfield assists en route to team MVP honors and an NL Gold Glove Award.

Signed to a three-year deal near the conclusion of Spring Training, veteran right hander Kyle Lohse enjoyed a strong 2013 Brewers debut.  In 32 stars, Kyle earned 11 victories while striking out 125 batters and maintaining a 3.35 earned run average.  On September 25 at Atlanta, a masterful Lohse tossed a complete game, two-hit shutout.

While pitchers Yovani Gallardo and Wily Peralta battled inconsistencies in 2013, right handed prospect Tyler Thornburg impressed down the stretch.  In just over 66 innings pitched, Thornburg held opposing batters to a .225 batting average while owning an ERA just over two.

Closer Jim Henderson impressed as the team's closer, converting 28 saves in 32 chances while maintaining a 2.70 ERA.  Henderson replaced an inconsistent John Axford, who bounced back and forth between closer and setup roles before eventually being traded to St. Louis.

In just 136 at-bats, left field prospect Khris Davis crushed 11 home runs, drove in 27 runs, and belted 10 doubles while batting .279.  Davis' impressive 2013 debut has earned him a starting role in 2014, forcing the Brewers to shift Braun to right field.

Second base prospect Scooter Gennett impressed in his 2013 debut, hitting .324 in just 69 games.  The emergence of Gennett may spell the end for Rickie Weeks, whose ongoing injuries and inconsistencies led to a disappointing 2013 season.

Outfielder Norichika Aoki enjoyed a strong 2013 showing in Milwaukee, swiping 20 bases and belting 20 doubles while hitting .286.  Following the season, the Brewers exercised Aoki's club option for 2014, only to deal him to Kansas City in exchange for left handed pitcher Will Smith.

Following surgeries on both knees, versatile slugger Corey Hart missed all of 2013.  In Hart's absence, Brewers first basemen combined to bat a dismal .211.  Hart has since signed a one-year, incentive-laden contract with the Mariners, ending his memorable tenure in Milwaukee.

Needless to say, the Milwaukee Brewers saw their share of positives and negatives over the course of 2013.  Regardless of adversities faced or challenges lying ahead, Brewers fans have reason to be optimistic about their beloved team.  A surplus of young talent and a returning superstar yield a bright future for the Milwaukee Brewers.

I wish you a very Merry Christmas, and my absolute best for the year ahead!
Barrel Man

Does Sheffield Belong in Cooperstown?

The recently released 2014 National Baseball Hall of Fame Ballot contains the names of several former Brewers players.  Such former Brewers include Ray Durham, Hideo Nomo, Richie Sexson, and Eric Gagné, each making his first respective appearance on the ballot.

Though these players don't have a realistic chance of enshrinement, the 2015 ballot will feature one of the more controversial figures in team history.  Gary Sheffield, who began his 22-year career in Milwaukee, spent parts of four seasons with the Brewers.

Sheffield was drafted out of high school by Milwaukee with the sixth overall pick in 1986.  Drafted as a shortstop, Sheffield struggled at the position in the minor leagues and consequently spent time at third base and in the outfield.

After dominating with his bat at the minor league level, Sheffield was promoted to the majors during roster expansions in September 1988.  An injury to shortstop Dale Sveum paved the way for Sheffield to take over at his natural position.  However, injuries and inconsistencies forced the Brewers to shift Sheffield back to third base and allow Bill Spiers to take over at shortstop.  Sheffield publicly claimed the move to be racially motivated.

Sheffield Homers for First Career Hit

Sheffield enjoyed a solid 1990 season with the Brewers, batting .294 while cranking 30 doubles and swiping 25 bases.  However, it was too little, too late for the Brewers' former number one prospect.  Sheffield had become a clubhouse cancer, complaining of mistreatment from teammates, management, and fans.

In an injury-plagued 1991 season, Sheffield batted just .194 in 175 at-bats.  During Spring Training of the following year, Sheffield and Brewers fans were finally granted their collective wish.  Sheffield was traded to San Diego in exchange for prospects Ricky Bones, José Valentin, and Matt Mieske.  Sheffield publicly stated that he had been "freed from jail" and felt ready to flourish as a major leaguer.

Everyone knows what happened next.

Sheffield enjoyed an MVP-caliber 1992 season, hitting .330 en route to the NL batting crown.  Sheffield also finished second in the league in both home runs (33) and RBIs (100) in his near-Triple Crown campaign.

Sheffield would go on to enjoy a productive career in the major leagues, though he never maintained a single home for very long.  Following his trade from the Brewers and breakout season with the Padres, Sheffield would spend time with the Marlins, Dodgers, Braves, Yankees, Tigers, and Mets.  Along the way, Sheffield found new and creative ways to ruffle feathers and stir up controversy.  During the twilight of his career, Sheffield was cited in the infamous Mitchell Report, documenting players who had allegedly used performance-enhancing substances.

In total, the nine-time All-Star and five-time Silver Slugger Award winner belted 509 homers and drove in 1,676 runs.  Sheffield slugged his 500th career home run against Milwaukee on April 3, 2009 at Citi Field.  He was an integral part of the Florida Marlins' 1997 World Championship, one of few organizations with which Sheffield did not wear out his welcome.

There's no doubt the numbers are there, though controversy and steroid speculation are right there with the accolades.  So I ask you, Brewers fans.  Does Gary Sheffield deserve to be enshrined in Cooperstown?

Thank you for reading, and have a nice weekend!
Barrel Man

Hart Signs with Seattle

Corey Hart is officially off the free agent market.

Hart and the Seattle Mariners have agreed to terms on a one-year deal worth a guaranteed $6 million.  The deal is performance-based, as Hart can earn up to an additional $7 million in incentives.

The Brewers also offered Hart a performance-based, one-year deal, though with smaller figures.  Their offer would have guaranteed Hart $4 million in 2014, with an ability for the veteran to earn an additional $2.5 million in incentives.

Hart has come full circle with his new General Manager, Jack Zduriencik.  A former scout in the Milwaukee organization, Zduriencik played a large role in the Brewers' drafting of Hart in the 11th round in 2000.

To add insult to injury, the Mariners have also acquired the versatile Logan Morrison from Miami.  Morrison had been considered a "Plan B" option for Doug Melvin and the Brewers, should Hart sign elsewhere.

Though disappointed in what has transpired, Melvin has little time to sit and dwell on what might have been.  The Brewers' General Manager will continue to seek the services of a first baseman, as he is engaged in ongoing discussions with the Mets regarding Ike Davis.

A fan-favorite and positive clubhouse presence, Hart will certainly be missed.  In parts of nine seasons with Milwaukee, the two-time All-Star belted 154 homers, drove in 508 runs, and smacked 211 doubles.

Despite Corey's well-documented love for the organization that drafted him, one thing is for certain.  Corey Hart is not the first player to sign elsewhere after expressing a desire to remain in Milwaukee.

In other news, the Brewers have selected left handed pitcher Wei-Chung Wang from Pittsburgh in this year's Rule 5 Draft.  Doug Melvin stated early on that pitching would be one of his top priorities this offseason.  Between Wang and the recently acquired Will Smith, Melvin has added two promising left handers to his pitching corps.

Thank you for reading, and stay warm!
Barrel Man

Aoki Dealt to Royals; Davis to Start in Left Field

In the final days of October, the Brewers exercised outfielder Norichika Aoki's club option for 2014.  Despite the exercised option worth just under $2 million, Aoki had long been considered trade bait.

Kansas City has taken that bait, acquiring Aoki in exchange for left handed pitcher Will Smith.  Smith was productive for the Royals in 2013, posting a 3.24 ERA while striking out 43 batters in 33.1 innings of work.  He maintained an impressive 0.93 WHIP while limiting opposing hitters to a .202 batting average.

The 24-year-old Smith brings much needed depth to a Brewers' pitching staff that was largely inconsistent in 2013.  Though Smith can start and pitch out of the bullpen, Doug Melvin has indicated that Smith will be a member of the Brewers' starting rotation in 2014.

The move creates an intriguing scenario which team officials have discussed over the past several weeks.  The Brewers plan to move the recently reactivated Ryan Braun to right field, paving the way for Khris Davis to take over in left.

While many believe Braun to be athletic enough to play just about anywhere on the diamond, Davis' skill set profiles him specifically as a left fielder.  Davis, who turns 26 later this month, made the most of his brief opportunity in 2013, slugging 11 homers and driving in 27 runs in 136 at-bats.

Davis Homers Against Cubs

Aoki was productive with Milwaukee, banging out 321 hits and swiping fifty bases while batting .287 over the course of two seasons.  A solid player on the field who brought a positive clubhouse presence, Aoki will surely be missed by teammates and fans alike.

On Sunday, June 29 at Miller Park, all fans in attendance will receive a Norichika Aoki bobble head.  The bobble head will feature Aoki wearing a Japanese-style Brewers uniform.  It will be interesting to see how the Brewers market this promotion, as Aoki will not be wearing a Brewers uniform of any kind in 2014.

Thank you for reading, and have a nice weekend,
Barrel Man

Braun Addresses Media at Charity Event in Milwaukee

For the first time since his 65-game suspension, Ryan Braun has spoken into the microphone.

Earlier today, Braun was in Milwaukee to volunteer with the Brewers Charities Food Drive in conjunction with the Hunger Task Force.  The event was held at Helfaer Field, the youth diamond across from Miller Park in the same lot.

Needless to say, Braun was clobbered with a surplus of pointed, accusatory questions.  Regardless, the Brewers' slugger responded to the questions with professionalism and humility, reiterating his remorse for mistakes from his recent past.

Braun sidestepped several direct questions pertaining to his past mistakes.  Though he would not directly answer such questions, Ryan did express remorse for his actions.

Braun did state that he regrets holding his infamous press conference at Maryvale Baseball Park on February 24, 2012 during Spring Training.  At that press conference, Ryan declared his innocence while pointing a finger at several others.

Among those chastised was sample collector Dino Laurenzi Jr., who has since made amends with his accuser.  Ryan and his fiance, Larisa Fraser, attended a productive dinner at the Laurenzi home the night before the charity event.

Regardless of what types of questions, accusations, or criticisms are thrown Braun's way, he has made it clear that he is ready to move forward and concentrate on baseball, as well as his upcoming wedding.

Below is a link to video footage of Braun's interview from earlier today, courtesy of CBS 58 News in Milwaukee.

Braun Addresses Media

"I think a positive can arise from any situation."

-Ryan Braun

Thank you for reading, and have a Happy Thanksgiving!

-Barrel Man

Hart Receiving Interest from Several Clubs

Despite missing all of 2013 after having surgeries on both knees, Corey Hart is a valuable commodity on the free agent market this offseason.

Hart's first surgery was performed on his right knee in January.  That surgery went well, though Hart's left knee became overworked and inflamed during his rehabilitation.  Corey's left knee was then operated on in July, preventing him from sniffing the playing field in 2013.  It was a frustrating break for Hart, who was entering a contract year.

Following an inactive 2013 season, Hart says he feels great and is ready to resume baseball activities.  Despite his new-found health and optimism, Corey will not be in contact with teams until he receives medical clearance on December 3.  Below is a link to a short video that Hart has used to market himself this offseason.  The video depicts Corey's rehabilitated knees and full health.

Hart's Workout

Though Hart is not yet entertaining offers from clubs, several teams have expressed interest in the versatile veteran.  Milwaukee, seeking help at first base, is expected to make an aggressive run at Hart.  Other teams that have expressed interest include Colorado, Tampa Bay, and the World Champion Boston Red Sox.  Should he not re-sign with Milwaukee, Hart may be asked to return to the outfield with a different team.

Despite interest from other clubs, Hart has insisted that he would prefer to stay in Milwaukee.  For the past several seasons, Corey has made it clear that he and his family love where they're at and would prefer not to leave.  You may remember Hart trying to convince Zack Greinke to stay in Milwaukee for the long haul.  Following Zack's trade to the Angels and eventual mega-deal with the Dodgers, Hart publicly implied that Greinke would regret his decision, stating that Milwaukee has intangibles that can't be found elsewhere.

In spite of Hart's stated desire to stay with the Brewers, anything can happen on the free agent market.  Over the years, many players have claimed a love for Milwaukee and a desire to stay.  In the end, most of those players chased the money.  Time will tell where Hart ends up in 2014.

Thanks for reading,
Barrel Man

2014 Milwaukee Brewers: Bobble Head Lineup Revealed

Hello fans of the Barrel!

For all you Brewer bobble head collectors out there, the 2014 bobble head lineup has been revealed:

4:27: Carlos Gomez, 2013 Gold Glove Award Winner
5/11: Kyle Lohse
6/15: Vintage Kewpie Style Brewer
6/29: Norichika Aoki, Japanese Brewers Jersey
7/27: To Be Determined, Fan Vote
8/10: Chorizo Racing Sausage
8/24: Jean Segura
9/14: Robin Yount, Vintage 1970's

The 2014 bobble head lineup is certainly an interesting one. The Lohse and Segura bobbles come as no surprise to me, though I'm somewhat surprised that Wily Peralta will not be granted one in the coming season.

Gomez and Aoki bobble heads are included in the bobble head lineup for a second consecutive season. The Aoki situation is interesting, as he has been discussed as possible trade bait. The Brewers have Khris Davis waiting in the wings and are looking to bolster their starting staff. It will be a shame if Aoki isn't around for his own bobble head day at the end of June.

I'm intrigued by the Fan Vote Bobble Head to be given away on 7/27. Who would you most like to see enshrined in bobble head form? Personally, I think George Bamberger is well-overdue for one. Comment below with your vote.

Have a good weekend!
-Barrel Man

What Braun Should Expect; What to Expect from Braun in 2014

To say the least, 2013 has been a forgettable year for Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun.

It all began prior to the start of the season, with rumors swirling about a possible connection between Braun and Anthony Bosch, former head of the now defunct Biogenesis anti-aging clinic.  The rumors began after a Yahoo! Sports report surfaced, indicating that Braun's name had appeared in personal documents belonging to Bosch.

Braun maintained his innocence, claiming that Bosch had been used as a consultant by Braun's legal team during the slugger's successful appeal of suspension from 2012.  Regardless, the Yahoo! Sports report prompted Major League Baseball to begin an open investigation into Biogenesis, seeking the names of specific players involved.

Regardless of the swirling rumors and speculation, Braun tried to put it all behind him and focus on baseball.  However, he never looked overly comfortable at the plate in 2013, battling a sore thumb that eventually landed him on the disabled list for the first time in his career.

Following his return from the disabled list on July 10, Braun missed several more games due to a personal issue.  He took family bereavement leave, a situation that Braun understandably did not speak openly about.

Just before the All-Star break, sources close to the ongoing Biogenesis investigation said that Braun was uncooperative when questioned by Major League Baseball.  There was speculation that his lack of cooperation was grounds for a suspension.

On July 22, it was announced that Ryan Braun would be suspended for the final 65 games of the 2013 season.  It was essentially a delayed punishment for Braun's positive test in October 2011, followed by lies and obstruction during Major League Baseball's investigation into Biogenesis.

Needless to say, Ryan Braun will be more than willing to put 2013 behind him and ring in the new year, desperately seeking a fresh start in 2014.

However, Braun's problems won't simply go away once the calendar year has changed.  He was once considered a charming, likable, marketable ambassador of our national pastime.  Though Braun will likely never be able to truly reclaim his status as a face of the game, he can take action to show his contrition to the world of baseball.  That being said, Braun has a lot of work to do in hopes of repairing diminished character and a damaged reputation.

2014 is going to be a trying season for Braun, especially early on.  Starting in Spring Training, he may feel like a stranger in his own clubhouse at Maryvale.  Though plenty of his teammates will be happy to see him, others may not be sure what exactly to say to him.  The clubhouse at Miller Park might not be much better.  It's an awkward situation that will slowly improve with time.

Though Braun has always been booed on the road, the boos will be now be more aggressive than ever before.  He will likely receive a mixture of boos and cheers from the hometown fans.  The boos will not be limited to his plate appearances.  Regardless of which corner outfield spot Braun secures in 2014, he should expect consistent heckling.  The occasional $8 cup of beer may even sail towards him.

Opposing players won't have much to say to Braun in 2014.  He won't be making much small talk with opposing infielders while on the bases.  Braun has lost many friends in the game.

The Brewers head to Arizona for a two-game set against the Diamondbacks in the middle of June.  At that point, Kirk Gibson may take a few more verbal shots at Braun.  Diamondbacks players might join in on the fun.

Braun should expect to get hit with a lot of pitches over the course of 2014.  Gibson will likely order Braun to be hit at least once.  Former teammate Zack Greinke, now with the Dodgers, will likely send Braun a message.  Ryan is sure to get hit by pitchers he's never even heard of.  The bottom line is, people across the game feel cheated, lied to, and taken advantage of.  For the foreseeable future, Braun's counterparts are going to make life very difficult for Ryan Braun.

Expect a humbled Hebrew Hammer in 2014.  He likely won't admire too many of his own home runs, nor is he likely to "low five" his base coaches after such long balls.  Braun should carry himself as though he's been there before, even if not since July.

Despite everything standing in his way, Braun has not forgotten how to play the game of baseball.  He has not forgotten how to swing a bat.  He has not forgotten how to track down a fly ball.  Though it has been a while since he's stepped onto a Major League field, Braun has not forgotten his way around one.

Regardless of his recent mistakes, Ryan is still one of the most talented baseball players of his era.  He is a natural athlete who loves to play the game.  Though he might scuffle out of the gates in 2014, Braun will eventually get his legs back under him and find his rhythm.

Regardless of what types of numbers Braun puts up, it may be a few years before he earns another All-Star nod.  Though performance and statistics should speak for themselves, All-Stars are chosen by the fans, players, and coaches.  That being said, all of the above are human, thus subjective.

Braun has not yet done nearly enough to earn back the respect and trust of the fans.  However, he should be given the benefit of the doubt that his 2011 positive test was an isolated incident.  After all, during its open investigation into Biogenesis, Major League Baseball found no evidence that would indicate a relationship between Bosch and Braun prior to 2011.

I think the timing of Braun's 65-game suspension somewhat works in his favor.  Smoke will continue to settle this offseason following the suspension.  Had Braun served his 50-game suspension to begin the 2012 season, he would have stepped right back onto the diamond and into the fire following the ban.

Braun has made mistakes, for which he is ashamed and embarrassed.  It's likely the reason he has yet to stand in front of a microphone and publicly apologize.  He's not ready to show his face quite yet.

Mark Attanasio has stated that he expects Braun to attend the Brewers On-Deck team event on January 26 in Milwaukee.  Should Braun attend, it might be wise for him to finally get in front of that microphone and address those in attendance.  Yes, people will eventually forgive and move on.  However, for the foreseeable future, Ryan Braun has a lot of work to do.

"I realize now that I have made some mistakes.  I am willing to accept the consequences of those actions."

-Ryan Braun

Thank you for reading.
-Barrel Man

Gomez Earns Gold Glove; Ends 31-Year Franchise Drought

2013 has proved to be an eventful year for Brewers center fielder Carlos Gomez.

*In March, Gomez and the Brewers agreed to a three-year, $24 million contract extension through 2016
*Gomez earned his first All-Star nod in July, traveling to New York alongside Jean Segura to serve as National League reserves
*Carlos elevated his game in 2013, finishing the season with career highs in home runs (24), runs batted in (73), hits (152), doubles (27), triples (10), runs scored (80), and stolen bases (40), earning team Most Valuable Player honors
*It was announced this week that Gomez is the recipient of the 2013 National League Gold Glove Award for center field

Gomez was one of three finalists to receive consideration for a Gold Glove Award at center field.  The other two were Andrew McCutchen of the Pirates and Denard Span of the Nationals.  Gomez is the first Brewer to earn a Gold Glove Award since Robin Yount in 1982.  That season, Yount earned a Gold Glove Award for his defensive prowess at shortstop, as well as American League Most Valuable Player honors while leading Milwaukee to its first pennant.

In 2013, Gomez committed only five errors in 408 total chances, good for a .988 fielding percentage.  Not only was Carlos fundamentally sound on defense, he also made several spectacular, highlight reel plays in center field.  One particular play stands out.

On July 8, the Brewers held a 4-3 lead over the Cincinnati Reds in the top of the ninth inning at Miller Park.  With two outs, a man on first, and a 2-2 count on the Reds' most dangerous hitter, Joey Votto crushed a Francisco Rodriguez fastball into deep center field, sending Gomez to the wall.

Carlos leaped, reached over the wall, and grabbed what should have been a go-ahead, two-run blast.  Votto was in disbelief, signaling for umpires to check Gomez's glove.  Gomez had, in fact, secured the catch and the victory.  It was all smiles for the Brewers' center fielder, his teammates, and Brewer fans everywhere.

Gomez Robs Votto

Congratulations to Carlos Gomez on his 2013 National League Gold Glove Award!

Thank you for reading!
-Barrel Man

2014 Milwaukee Brewers: Starting Rotation Possibilities

Greetings Brew Crew fans!

I hope you enjoyed last week’s blog post pertaining to a possible starting lineup scenario. It was the first of many blog posts to come. This blog is very much a work in progress as I continue to iron out kinks along the way. As they say, Rome wasn’t built in a day!

As promised, I will be discussing a possible starting rotation scenario in this post. As with the starting lineup, the starting rotation is suspect to undergo changes between now and the start of the 2014 season. Pieces can always be added or subtracted. Regardless, it is never too early to speculate about which five arms may occupy the Brewers’ starting rotation in the season to come.

1: Yovani Gallardo
Despite his first half struggles and overall inconsistencies over the past few seasons, Gallardo is still the Brewers’ ace and one of the faces of the franchise. He has won at least twelve games each of the past five seasons, leading the staff in victories in each of the past four. Though strikeouts were down for Yovani in 2013 (144) and ERA was up (4.18), he did have an impressive second half and seems to have made some helpful mechanical adjustments. Gallardo has sped up his delivery, allowing him to attack the strike zone more aggressively. Barring injury, expect Gallardo to take the hill March 31 against Atlanta.

2: Kyle Lohse
Lohse had a solid 2013 campaign with his new team. Though he was inconsistent in the first half, some of that can be attributed to a lack of run support. Lohse’s mates did not score many runs in his first several starts, pinning Kyle into an early hole. However, he worked his way out of the hole and put together a very strong second half. Lohse finished the season with eleven wins, a 3.35 ERA, and 125 strikeouts. The Brewers signed Lohse late into Spring Training in 2013 and are committed to keeping him near the top of their rotation. Expect an increase in wins for Lohse in 2014, having a full season in his new surroundings under his belt.

3: Wily Peralta
Peralta may be the true enigma of the Brewers’ starting staff. After impressing late in 2012, Peralta was largely inconsistent throughout 2013, seemingly alternating between solid and poor starts. Like many of his teammates, Peralta picked it up a bit in the second half, finishing the season with eleven wins and 129 strikeouts. Being a young pitcher, the Brewers expect struggles and learning curves throughout Peralta’s development. However, they expect for Peralta to start to put it all together and find consistency on the mound. He will be 25 in May and is still highly touted by the organization. Though Peralta has always been considered one of the Brewers’ top pitching prospects, it is time for Wily to take his game to the next level and finally shed the “prospect” label.

4: Tyler Thornburg
The offspeed specialist was impressive in limited duties in 2013, posting a 2.03 ERA and striking out 48 batters in 66 2/3 innings. Though he may return to Nashville in 2014 for more minor league seasoning, it seems more likely that the Brewers will give Tyler his much deserved opportunity at the big league level. He has been one of the organization’s top pitching prospects for the past several years, despite his recent struggles in the minor leagues. The Brewers would rather not bury Tyler in the minor leagues, especially since he showed enough promise in the closing weeks of 2013. Thornburg just turned 25 in September and may get his opportunity to crack the starting rotation out of Spring Training.

5: Marco Estrada
Estrada battled injuries throughout 2013, tossing just 128 innings. Despite the lost time, Marco did strike out 118 batters and compiled a 3.87 ERA while on the mound. As someone who can start and pitch in long relief, Estrada is invaluable to the organization. Despite the occasional forgettable start, Marco is also good for the occasional dominant start. Beyond the two occasional extremes, Estrada is a solid pitcher who helps to stabilize the Brewers’ starting rotation. Look for Marco to get every opportunity to secure a back end rotation slot for 2014.

Don’t Count ‘Em Out:
Hiram Burgos, Mike Fiers, Alfredo Figaro, Tom Gorzelanny, Donovan Hand, Johnny Hellweg, Chris Narveson, and Jimmy Nelson may get looks and receive rotation consideration in Spring Training.

It seems that many fans are hoping for Yovani Gallardo to be traded. Though it’s not beyond the realm of possibility, I simply don’t think that would be practical at this point. Gallardo is set to earn $11.25 million in 2014, the final year of his guaranteed contract. The Brewers hold a $13 million team option on Gallardo for 2015.

The argument can be made that the Brewers should deal Yovani so as to free up payroll. However, the Brewers are thin at starting pitching as it is. They simply aren’t in a position to be trading starting pitchers, especially a veteran like Gallardo. Though he might not be an ace on many staffs, Gallardo is the Brewers’ number one starter.

Regardless of how the starting rotation shakes out for 2014, one thing is for certain. The Milwaukee Brewers must perform more consistently on the field. This is not limited to starting pitching. The bullpen arms, bats, and gloves must find ways to play a more consistent brand of baseball for an entire season. It is no secret that Doug Melvin is disappointed with his team’s first half struggles each of the past two seasons.

"I can't stand here every year and say we had a great second half. That doesn't work. We've done that two years in a row, gotten off to bad starts. For the past two years we've relied on younger players, but for us to get better, for us to perform, our star players have to perform. They have to come to the forefront."

-Doug Melvin

Thanks for reading!
-Barrel Man

2014 Milwaukee Brewers: Potential Lineup

Greetings Brew Crew fans!

Though it's only October, it's never too early to start contemplating potential Brewers lineups for the season to come.  Granted, pieces can always be added and subtracted between now and the 2014 season.  However, with the pieces the Brewers have currently, I feel that this lineup will give the Brewers their best chance to compete in a competitive National League Central Division:

SS-Jean Segura 
The Brewers' young shortstop enjoyed an impressive 2013 campaign, earning his first All-Star nod at the tender age of 23.  An up-and-coming superstar, Segura possess excellent speed and decent power.  Though Segura will produce at any spot in the Brewers' lineup, his calling may be as a table setter at the very top.

CF-Carlos Gomez
Coming off his strongest season in the major leagues, the Brewers' 2013 Most Valuable Player is perhaps their best overall athlete.  Gomez is a power threat at the plate and practically automatic on the base paths, swiping 40 bases in 47 attempts this past season.  Batting behind Segura and in front of the big boys, Gomez will be able to utilize his talents and capabilities.

RF-Ryan Braun 
Returning from suspension, Braun will likely be a distraction early on.  National media will be all over the Brewers both at home and on the road, but for all the wrong reasons.  Regardless, Braun is a natural athlete and proven superstar.  Players like Ryan Braun don't simply forget how to hit a baseball.

3B-Aramis Ramírez
2013 proved to be a frustrating campaign for Ramirez, who was hampered by injuries.  The aging third baseman will be 36 in June, and is clearly past his prime.  However, he showed some pop late in 2013 and is entering a contract year.  Players always seem to push a little harder during contract years.  Though retirement following 2014 would be a possibility for Ramirez, it is possible that he will try to impress in 2014, hoping to play another season or two with a different club.

C-Jonathan Lucroy
The Brewers' backstop has shown steady improvement each season both at and behind the plate.  Lucroy possess solid plate discipline and decent power, stroking a career-high 18 long balls in 2013.  Lucroy's pop and good eye at the plate make him an ideal candidate to bat fifth in the order.


1B-Corey Hart
Though Hart is currently eligible for free agency, he has yet to file.  The Brewers are in desperate need of help at first base and may be willing to offer Hart a one or two-year deal.  Hart has already expressed a willingness to return to Milwaukee at a reduced salary.

LF-Khris Davis
In 2013, the Brewers' left field prospect received a decent amount of playing time in the absence of Ryan Braun.  Davis made the most of his opportunity, slugging 11 home runs and driving in 27 runs in just 136 at bats.  Though it is possible that the Brewers will option Davis back to Triple-A Nashville, it is more likely that they will try and make room for him on their 25-man roster in 2014.  Davis will turn 26 in December and seems to be pounding on the door for an opportunity.  In order to compensate Davis, Braun would have to shift to right field, a move currently being discussed by Doug Melvin & Co.

2B-Scooter Gennett/Rickie Weeks
This is perhaps the most interesting position to analyze.  Weeks batted just .209 in 104 games in 2013, battling injuries as he has throughout his career.  Gennett made the most of his 213 at bats, batting .324 and belting six home runs.  However, Weeks is under contract, and is a decent power threat at the plate when healthy.  A platoon is possible, as is a "Duke 'em out" scenario in Spring Training.  Time will tell how the second base situation unfolds in the season to come.

You will notice that this potential lineup does not include Norichika Aoki.  The Brewers do hold a team option on Aoki, which is expected to be exercised.  However, the emergence of Khris Davis has led to speculation that Aoki might be used as trade bait, following his exercised option.  The Brewers are in need of help at starting pitching, something I'll discuss on my next blog post.

Thank you for reading!
-Barrel Man