Episode 56 "Jamie Easterly Edition"

Breakdown of The Show:

Hot Stove/Winter Meetings (0:00-38:00)

- Acquire Burke Badenhop in trade

- Sign LHP Travis Webb to Minor League Deal

- Who is still out in SP market

- Who is still out in RP market

Break

News & Notes (38:00-1:00:00)

- Counsell staying

- Brewers upset w/ Nashville Stadium

- Weeks back to leadoff?

- Gamel's role with club?

Episode 55 "Marcus Hanel Edition"

Breakdown of The Show:

Quick 2012 Wrap Up 0:00-21:00
Break
Early Hot Stove Talk 21:00-37:00

Scrap Heap Relievers To Mend The Brewers Woes

The bullpen is dismantled after the departure of LaTroy Hawkins, Takashi Saito and Francisco Rodriguez. The Brewers still have stud closer John Axford, Kameron Loe and Marco Estrada, but outside of those key players from 2011, the Brewers do not have a good fix inside their system. A few remaining players that could star in the back end of the bullpen seem to be set to start in Nashville. Melvin prides himself in signing a diamond in the rough, so could he find a couple cheap fixes for the bullpen? Here are a list of injury plagued players and players who hit rough patches who many don’t expect the Crew to go after. Most of them are cheap options that can easily fill the big holes left.

1. David Aardsma- Aardsma, just 29, was a stud closer in Seattle whenever he could stay on the field. Despite much success, injuries plagued the young player and kept him from defining himself. Although he missed all of 2011, Aardsma had a great amount of success in 2009 and 2010. In ’09 Aardsma had 38 saves despite taking over for Seattle prospect Brandon Morrow part way through the season. In 2010, in just 41 innings before suffering his injury, Aardsma saved 31 games. The closer is not in the market to be the leader of a bullpen, but has proved he is very capable of being a setup specialists during his time backing up Morrow. With his recent injury history Aardsma could come in on a small incentive based contract and could fill the role K-Rod left at the end of 2011.

2. Joel Zumaya- Zumaya was once the closer to be prospect of the Tigers system. The flamethrower consistently hit triple digits and blazed away competition. He was always successful, with a career 3.05 ERA, Zumaya is another strong bullpen candidate that missed all of 2011. Zumaya is ready to throw, as he showed execs the other day during his personal demonstration, and strikes out major league hitters with the best of them. Zumaya is another player who would come in on an incentive based, maybe even minor league contract. Contention may drive up his price, but the Brewers chance at contention could make Zumaya attracted to Milwaukee. Plus, he’s only 27.

3. Pat Neshek- Neshek was once THE setup man of the American League. Setting up Joe Nathan, Neshek had two complete seasons with an ERA under 3.00 and striking out 9 or more per 9. Neshek then went through surgery, but could not return to form. Neshek hasn’t surpassed 25 innings in the last three years he’s pitched, and missed one year all together. However, the ability is still there, but control isn’t. Neshek does not seemed primed to get a major league contract, and coming in a spring training invite could prove impressive enough to make the bullpen.

4. Kerry Wood-Wood is one of THE bullpen FA’s going into 2011. The reason he is under the radar? Everyone expects Wood to go to the Cubs or retire, however, Wood just wants to stay somewhere, where his family is comfortable. Milwaukee’s close proximity to Chicago would not require him to take his family away from their comfort. They would also get someone who struck out 10/9 IP and walked 3/9. Wood is a great late inning reliever, and would cost some money, but may be willing to part with the Cubs if he stayed close enough.

5. Brad Lidge- If you could get as high profile a closer as they come, with as much explosion and injury risk as you could ask for Brad Lidge would be your man. I don’t know Lidge could be pulled away from closing duties, but he will most certainly be reliable if healthy. Lidge, pulled himself together in Philly, could he do the same in Milwaukee? The next best benefit of Lidge? He probably only wants a one year deal, if he is doing his normal performance come July, you could flip him to a contender if the Crew can’t compete.

6. Mike Gonzalez- Gonzalez was primed to be a closer. He was one of the top bullpen players, posting a 2.42 ERA in 70+innings for Atlanta. Gonzalez is a hard throwing lefty, who just lost his stuff. Location wasn’t a problem as much as he lost his ability to strike people out last season. Also, Gonzalez, allowing 1.8 HR’s per game last season was hurt by letting the ball out of the park. The Brewers need a lefty in the bullpen. Gonzalez can pitch against lefties, allowing a .217 career BA against them. Maybe a LOOGY role might be his best role, and the Brewers would be smart to buy when his stock is low. If he gets his pitches back together, Gonzalez could even pitch full innings, as righties never faired that well against him either… until 2010. In 2011 though righties hit .287 against him while lefties still only managed a .214 BA.

-Brad

Where The Brewers Real Focus Should Be

So we are to a point where the Milwaukee Brewers have done their usual nothing in free agency, much like many other teams, and as big offers go out to big free agents we have to wonder if the Crew will make a big move. If they do, fantastic, but it’s time to stop writing about the hopeful prospects of signing someone like Reyes and talk about what I believe the Brewers should focus on during this offseason.

For starters, the bullpen. One of the big reasons the Brewers were considered such a strong team in the playoffs was their shut down bullpen that ranked 5th in the MLB with a 3.32 ERA, that was much stronger in the second half. Right now the bullpen is a major factor, and can be fixed with a few pieces reassembled. Adding Saito or Hawkins will make for a strong 6th/7th swing man and then finding a power arm by trade, free agency or within the system will help. Still the bullpen could be even stronger with a few more pieces, and Melvin has always been very good at piecing these things together.

Plugging the holes is the next important thing. The obvious ones are there, SS, 1B but then the bench needs to be filled with some experienced starters. Melvin seems stuck on getting Hairston back into the lineup and I have no problem with that. I think 1B will be filled by Gamel and then sign an incentive contract for a 1B who is slightly past their prime, much to the history of Melvin. I think the outfield spot missing on the bench will be filled inside the system, and would love to see a cheap alternative come in at short for Yuni, most likely being Clint Barmes. As far as McGehee’s weak season goes, I think Green on the bench with a possibility of replacing or platooning with Casey would be a cheap resolution and there is your answer with the bench, filling all open spots.

Finally, and I consider this most important, resign at least ONE key starter. I think it is very important to extend this staff beyond the years it is together for. Marcum, Greinke and Wolf are free agents after the year. I think it is easy to let Wolf go, but Greinke and Marcum may leave in free agency. Yovani Gallardo will also leave the team in 2013, completely destroying the staff. I think the Brewers expect to lose two of the aforementioned pitchers internally. It appears they have a desire to get Fiers or Peralta into the rotation and condition them to be a successful part of the 2013 staff. The Brewers also have two first round college picks and Cody Scarpetta. The Brewers don’t have a great history in developing their own pitching talent, especially for the rotation. In fact the only strong success stories come from Gallardo and Sheets.

From my point of view, in order to remain competitive, the Brewers are obligated to resign one of Marcum, Gallardo and Greinke. I think the biggest deal comes in signing Gallardo. It seems like Yo only gets better and better, even though he doesn’t have much to improve. It looks like his value will only increase throughout the years. I would go into finer details, quoting WAR and ERA and wins, but any Brewer fan has noticed Gallardo’s increased dominance inside 4-6 shaky performances a year. If he can limit those big mistake games, Gallardo is going to be poised to make major money. Right now it appears he’s very under the radar and can probably be put on a 5 year contract for $80 MM or less, which is a deal for elite pitching.

Marcum and Greinke then would depart next year. I think Greinke’s comfort level will be increased if the team can compete again, but first the Brewers would need to have another good season, maybe even make the playoffs. Greinke appears ready to stay for comfort, but also wants money. Another playoff run could set the Brewers up for just that. In the coming years the only major piece outside of pitching the Crew will need to replace is Cory Hart, which appears to be easy with the depth of outfield depth in the system. The money can be placed into pitching without large concern in the future, and pitching provides ability to compete for years to come. Marcum will also be considered midmarket when he departs, so if Greinke were to depart, Marcum could probably still be locked in for a similar contract to Gallardo.

This is what I think the team should focus on over the next few months. Signing a few more players for the bullpen, filling the empty roles on the bench and finding a shortstop (everything else seems to be an inside job) and resigning at least one of the star pitchers on the team. Got any disagreements? Challenge me with a comment, and I will get back to you and tell you if you changed my mind or made me more passionate to my plan.

-Brad

Top 50 Free Agent Predictions

Using the top 50 list from MLB Trade Rumors here is where I think the top 50 MLB Free Agents will land this offseason. Enjoy!

1.Albert Pujols-St. Louis Cardinals
I cannot imagine the Cardinals not shelling out the money to retain their franchise star. Pujols is the St. Louis Cardinals and much like Dan Marino or John Elway it’s hard to imagine him in any jersey but the one he started in. Along with that, I am not sure there is a need for him on any team that can spare the money.

2.Prince Fielder-Boston Red Sox
On the other hand, Fielder will need to go somewhere where his career will be long. Even though he wants to stay a defender as well, no general manager can place him there. The Red Sox can let long time DH, David Ortiz walk and sign a better one in Prince Fielder, who will give the Red Sox a new Big Papi and Manny when he combines with Adrian Gonzalez. It will be the best 3 and 4 combo the MLB has seen in nearly 50 years.

3.Jose Reyes-Milwaukee Brewers
To site the reason for this please see the 2012 wish list. Doug Melvin and Mark Antanasio are willing to spend money and will want to keep the offense competitive. There is nothing that would make a bigger impact out of resigning Fielder.

4.CJ Wilson-Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays want to compete and are doing so by having an amazing rotation. Wilson, although not a star, can back up the amazing talent coming from Toronto’s farm system. If he joins their staff they can make a mark on the east much like the Rays have the past few years.

5.Yu Darvish-Japan
Darvish doesn’t seem to want to come to America quite yet. I’m guessing this year will end the same as last, with Darvish in Japan, teasing MLB execs for one more year.

6.Edwin Jackson-Washington Nationals
Jackson is looking for somewhere that won’t trade him. He has had 6 teams in 8 years of his Major League career and I am sure wants to save some of his paycheck for himself rather than paying the movers. Washington is much like Toronto but not quite as competitive. They have proved they want to spend money on Free Agents and Jackson will love the guarantee to stay in one town.

7.Jimmy Rollins-Philadelphia Phillies
Rollins is frequently injured, aging, decreasing in ability and wants too much money. No one needs a shortstops that bad to take these risks, so I think Philly will get a discounted gift in retaining their long time shortstop.

8.Aramis Ramirez- Cincinnati Reds
Ramirez is still potentially an elite Third Baseman offensively. The Reds need offense at the hot corner. Collecting around 30 RBI’s off Rolen’s injury replacements last year and not able to rely on Rolen to be healthy year in and year out. Ramirez could be a big gain to the Reds and with a gain in the rotation could be a top competitor in the NL Central again.

9.Carlos Beltran- San Francisco Giants
The Giants need someone like Beltran, a leader and someone solid in the field and at the plate, Beltran can still play well in the corners in the outfield and well at the plate. He won’t be the MVP candidate again, but certainly can help the Giants get the few runs they need to win with their amazing staff.

10.Jonathon Papelbon- Boston Red Sox
Where else would Papelbon go? He is no longer one of the best closers, but is still good. The market isn’t that thick and Bell and Rodriguez might be the next best things, but cost more to bring into Boston. Heath Bell seems reluctant to leave San Diego and K-Rod will be looking to snag another record deal, but it won’t happen. Boston most likely need Pap to stay and close the door in the East.

11.Michael Cuddyer-Minnesota Twins
Cuddyer seems content to finish his career where he started it and the Twins should get a hometown discount at that. But Cuddyer could seek somewhere new with plenty of room in Right Field and at First Base, Cuddyer will have his pick after Pujols and Fielder sign.

12.Mark Buerhle-Florida Marlins
Buerhle the last few years has always spoken highly of comfort. He said he wanted to remain in Chicago, but Ozzie Guillen may draw him down south with him. This is a rough prediction since Buerhle seems to think that his family is best in the Midwest. I think he rather follow his manager and play with the always nagging Marlins.

13.David Ortiz-Seattle Mariners
The Mariners need to make a move, with the GM on the hot seat and the team sinking faster than the Titanic they might need to make a big move. I cannot see them grabbing a big name like Fielder, but Ortiz will be useful enough and cheaper so he can assist the Mariners in some way and probably finish his career in the West Coast.

14.Ryan Madson-Phillies
Again, the Phillies would be crazy to let this one go. Plus where else can Madson run off to? What other team will continually get him in the playoffs.

15.Hiroki Kuroda-Oakland Athletics
Kuroda will only survive in the DH role. The Athletics seem content to pay him decent money to sit there. He won’t go anywhere and I don’t think he wants to.

16.Carlos Pena-Chicago Cubs
Even with Theo in the front desk, I cannot see the Cubs snagging a top Free Agent. With Fielder and Pujols going somewhere else, Pena will stay in Chicago for a slightly cheaper fee than last year.

17.Francisco Rodriguez-Florida Marlins
The Marlins need a big name, and K-Rod will be that name. He wants to close, the Marlins have the opening and Guillen plans to make an impact.

18.Roy Oswalt-Texas Rangers
The Rangers lose one ace in CJ Wilson and sign an old Texas ace in Oswalt. Everything makes sense here.

19.Javier Vazquez-Retirement
Vazquez has clearly wanted to turn it in. Strong pushes show his cap will be hung up and he will no longer play anywhere.

20.Heath Bell-San Diego Padres
Bell wants to stay in San Diego. San Diego needs a closer, another thing that just makes sense.

21.Coco Crisp-Washington Nationals
The Nationals need speed and lots of it. Crisp can do that, and sometimes more.

22.Hisashi Iwakuma-Minnesota Twins
The Twins made an investment on Iwakuma and will want a return. For that they will need to bring back the middle infielder and hope he turns out to help them return to the playoffs.

23.Kelly Johnson-Detroit Tigers
Tigers need a little bit more power in their lineup. Johnson is a big time power middle infielder and may be what the Tigers were missing when the Rangers trounced them in the ALCS. I could see Johnson being what the Tigers think they are missing.

24.Josh Willingham-Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates almost had a winning season. In fact, for a while they even had a fan base. Willingham will help the offense, but the pitching still needs big time help. It doesn’t seem like the Pirates know that.

25.Paul Maholm-Seattle Mariners
As I said, most of the Mariners staff is feeling the heat. They will be drawn to Maholm’s big year, pay too much and get little reward. Maholm will fail in the AL, unless the Mariners strong defense can back up Maholm sinkerball performance.

26.Grady Sizemore-Tampa Bay Rays
I see the Rays making a big risk move here. I can see them sending Upton out of Centerfield over to another team and take in some strong prospect. Then they can sign a gold glove discounted centerfielder. It’s a high risk/high reward type of move, and the Rays could pay for it long term, but it could be the move of the year.

27.Bartolo Colon-Retirement
It always seems Colon will have a home somewhere, but I can’t see anyone biting on a small role pitcher like Colon. As useful as he can be filling in for an injured starter he is no longer full time, and will either get a minor league incentive contract or be done all together.

28.Erik Bedard-Boston Red Sox
Bedard is coming into the offseason uninjured which is amazing considering his history. I think the Red Sox loved what they got last year and want more of it. They will sign Bedard for a decent deal, and maybe for a few extra years.

29.David DeJesus-Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers will need some help in the corners. DeJesus can help and will keep the Dodgers offence at par with last year.

30.Jason Kuebel-Chicago Cubs
I can see the Cubs adding some proven outfield help after unsuccessful attempts with minor leaguers and bad contracts. Kuebel will add power in the hitter friendly ball park and could provide much more value than this.

31.Ramon Hernandez-Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates have no more catching staff, they will need someone. Who better than Hernandez who proved to be a valuable fill in and can be a great starter. He will give the Pirates some much better veteran leadership that the young team needs.

32.Jeff Francis-Kansas City Royals
Francis found success in Kansas City, why not stay there and see where things go.

33.Chris Capuano-New York Mets
Same thing for Capuano. Sure the Mets are looking what they have in youth but with the comeback season Cappy had they might be foolish to not give him a second look at a bit more money this time.

34.Tsuyoshi Wada-Baltimore Orioles
It gets harder and harder every year to predict who is willing to take the huge risk of a Japanese prospect. The Orioles have nothing to lose by bringing in an unknown and maybe pulling away big in the process.

35.Clint Barmes-Houston Astros
The Astros may be starting over, but they will need something to make them a little secure somewhere. Barmes could be used a lot of places, but the Astors may need him more just for some security in their lineup.

36.Casey Kotchman-Milwaukee Brewers
With Milwaukee picking up Reyes, they will have enough offense, but Kotchman can provide decent power and a good average along with stellar first base defense. He will fill in for Fielder well if the Brewer do not go on with Mat Gamel at first.

37.Freddy Garcia-New York Yankees
Garcia proved very serviceable in New York. He is a solid starter and very valuable as a long reliever. The Yankees need one more person than Sabathia to be reliable. Garcia can do that, just not nearly as well.

38.Aaron Hill-Arizona Diamondbacks
If the Diamondbacks plan on repeating their success they will need Hill. A surprising contributor down the stretch he can play everywhere and the Diamondbacks still have question marks Hill can answer.

39.Johnny Damon-Tampa Bay Rays
Damon is almost done, but still has something left in the tank. He can still play a little left field and can be a solid DH for the Rays. They are very young, a little experience won’t do any wrong in their lineup.

40.Aaron Harang-Los Angeles Angels
The Angels have a good staff. Harang can make it great. He had a good year in San Diego, although a pitcher’s park Harang was once an ace, and we know he can be again. Having something to compete for in LA may give him the boost he needs to make the rotation the Angels have the edge they need to win the West again.

41.Jamey Carroll- Minnesota Twins
The Twins do need middle infield help. Carroll can give them one good year of service. Why not take him up on it?

42.Rafael Furcal-St. Louis Cardinals
I think the Cardinals consider Furcal to be the change they needed to move towards the World Series. If that is their belief that will make them stupid to not bring him back.

43.Juan Pierre- Oakland Athletics
What will the A’s do without something from the scrap heap. Pierre has some life in his speed and Oakland has always liked someone who can create runs. Pierre will do just that and help keep Oakland at nothing above average.

44.Frank Francisco-Milwaukee Brewers
Francisco has been known to give up a lot of home runs. He was also once a very valuable reliever. The Brewers need something that can replace K-Rod. Francisco is certainly no Rodriguez but he is a power pitcher and can help if he can limit the long ball.

45.Jason Marquis-San Diego Padres
San Diego may have an obsession with trying to return life to lost players. Marquis is just that. Maybe the playoff magic will return and the run the Padres made 2 years ago will be successful.

46.Joel Pineiro-Pittsburgh Pirates
He could compete in the Central in the ’09 but not in a system without Dave Duncan. The Pirates are looking for anything that will bring them a winning team.

47.Jonathon Broxton-Los Angeles Dodgers
Broxton had surgery, but before that was damn good. Why not let him stick around and be as big a contributor as he was in 2010.

48.Joe Nathan-New York Mets
The Mets love big names. Nathan would be the biggest name on the market two years ago in pitching this season. If he can bounce back from Tommy John surgery the Mets will be very happy with their non-aggressive but big return closer.

49.Kerry Wood-Retirement
The Cubs should bring him back, but I believe they are sick of the year in year out game. Wood was good, but I think it’s done.

50.Bruce Chen-Houston Astros
The Astros don’t have the prospects to fill a rotation without forcing someone into the bigs too soon. Chen is good, he won’t turn the Astros into winners, but maybe he will make them at least less bad.

-Brad

Holy Greinke!

Wow, just wow. Thank you Doug Melvin. Greinke, Gallardo, Marcum, Wolf, 5th starter. That is a playoff bound rotation ladies and gentlemen. Oh yeah, to go along with a lineup featuring Braun, Fielder, Weeks, Hart and McGehee. On behalf of Brewers fans everywhere I would just like to say, suck it Cardinals and Cubs!

Looper In The "Loop" In Milwaukee

Well, just when we thought and were told by Owner Mark Attanasio and GM Doug Melvin that the Brewers were done spending money this offseason and were heading into spring training with the team they had. They go and do the exact opposite. Today Haudricourt reported that the Brewers have agreed to a deal in principle with free agent starting pitcher Braden Looper, pending a physical.

Looper has been in the big leagues since 1998, spent most of his time as a releiver/closer until the last two years when he was a starter in St. Louis. The deal for Looper will be a 1 year deal for $5 mill with some kind of option for 2010. Another solid move by one of the better GM's in all of baseball. Looper is not an ace or even a #2 starter but he is a guy who pitched 199 innings last year, won 12 games, had an ERA of 4.16 and improved from his first year as a starter in 2007 to his second year in 2008. Hopefully he improves on his 2008 in 2009 as a member of the Brewers.

Maybe the best thing is you add depth by signing Looper. This allows you to move Seth McClung into the bullpen as that long reliever/spot starter which he was quite good in last season. Now your rotation will be Gallardo, Parra, Bush, Looper and Suppan. And then if there were to be an unfortunate injury you have McClung, Wright, Capuano and DiFelice waiting. Depth, which is something we did not have to much of a week ago we now have.

Oliver Perez, Ummm Hell No

A laughable report by John Heyman on MLB Network last night that the Brewers were "in" on Mets free agent pitcher Oliver Perez. It's just straight up Scott Boras propaganda to create a fictional market for Perez. Perez is a good pitcher, but his 4.22 ERA 125 NL leading walks and 1.40 WHIP is not worth the dollar amount Boras wants for him nor giving up a 1st round draft pick since Perez is a type A free agent.

I want the Brewers to add at least one more starting pitcher before camp starts as much as anybody. But I would be PISSED if they blew money on Perez. The only pitcher left on the market that would be worth spending a big dollar amount on would be Sheets, but for 1 or 2 years max. I think Perez is looking for 3 or 4 years. And luckily we have a smart GM who when asked by Haudricourt about the report said: "Absolutely not." Thanks for being a smart GM Doug and not an idiot.

I still have interest in Garland or Looper but I'm not sure we will even sign one of them. They even in this bad market are still looking for more then they are worth being 4+ ERA type pitchers. We shall see what happens, only 16 days until pitchers and catchers report to Maryvale, AZ.

Brewers Avoid Arby Hearing With Bush (My Most Underrated Player)

Just like with JJ Hardy, the Brewers avoided an arbitration hearing by agreeing to a 1 year $4 mill contract with Dave Bush. A nice little raise for Bush who made $2.55 Mill in 2008. Bush had a solid 2008 after a very rocky start in April and May that got him demoted to AAA Nashville. He went 9-10 with a 4.18 ERA and sparkling WHIP of 1.14. After the All-Star break Bush was 7-3 with a 3.23 ERA. Oh and you can't forget that gem he pitched in game 3 of the NLDS against the Phillies at Miller Park.

To me Bush is the most underrated player on the club. I will be honest with you, I chastised this guy at the beginning of last year when he had that ERA over 6 and was giving up long ball after long ball. But when you look at what he has done since joining the Brewers in 2006 (now as the prize of the Overbay trade), what he did after April/May last year and at his stuff he is a damn good pitcher and has become one of my favorites on the Brewers. The thing with Dave Bush is he has always given up HR's, (25+ the each of the last 3 seasons) but he doesn't give up a lot of walks or hits. When he gets in trouble it's long balls early in the game. If he can cut down on the HRs given up he could easily have an ERA under 4.

Besides giving up the HR the only other thing holding Dave back from being a legit #3 pitcher and possibly a #2 is slow starts. He historically has been bad in April and May, real bad. Bush told the JS's Tom Haudricourt today that he hopes and plans to find his groove much earlier in the season. I will go out and say right now on January 15th, Dave Bush will win at least 14 games for the Brewers in 2009. You heard it here first. He has already won 12 twice, he can make it to 14 with another ERA around 4 give or take and another WHIP in the 1.14ish range. Please make me look smart Dave, for your sake, mine and most important the Brewers.

Brewers Avoid Arby Hearing With Hardy

Brewers avoid a salary arbitration hearing and have agreed to a 1 year contract with JJ Hardy. Deal is worth $4.65 mill. Seems like a good deal to me and pretty cheap, still hope we can lock him up long term at some point. In my opinion Hardy may be the fourth best SS in all of MLB behind only the 3 R's (Ramirez, Rollins and Reyes). I suppose locking JJ up for the long term like they did Braun last year comes down to what the Brewers think of/want to do with Alcides Escobar. Should be interesting watching that situation unfold over the next couple years. The thing that gives me high hopes for Hardy in the future is he seems to have gotten better every year and I don't think he has reached his ceiling yet, which is scary.

As Time Goes By.....

It is of my personal opinion that the more time that goes by with Ben Sheets un-signed and that the Brewers don't sign a different free agent starting pitcher the more likely it is that Sheets returns to Milwaukee on a 1 year deal. Possibly with incentives or an option for a 2nd year. I just get a hunch that as more time goes on with no teams really interested in Ben that he and the Brewers can come to a mutual deal. I have no doubt that if Sheets did not have a past of injuries he would have been one of the first free agents off the board this offseason and would have gotten a nice multiple year contract.

The Brewers Have Their 2009 Closer And He Is The All-Time Saves Leader

It became official today (pending a physical of course) but the Brewers have signed the all-time saves leader and future HOF Trevor Hoffman (554 saves) to a 1 year deal worth $6 mill with another $1.5 mill in incentives. I think it's a great deal for the Brewers. They fill their closer needs with the best ever. Sure he has just turned 41 but had been very good still the last few years. I expect good things from Hoffman in 09'. I think he will be better then Gagne or Torres was in 08'. It came down to the Dodgers or the Brewers for Hoffman and he chose to leave the west coast where he calls home and played in San Diego for 16 years to come to the heart of the Midwest. Bottom line, the Brewers made the bigger push. Manager Ken Macha, trainer Roger Caplinger and players Mike Cameron and Jason Kendall all contacted Hoffman about coming to Milwaukee. Just awesome, the Brewers will have a presser once Hoffman passes the physical which should not be a problem. I heard in various interviews on the radio today with baseball media that Hoffman keeps himself in top physical condition, a work out freak.

I can't wait the first time I'm at Miller Park this season and I get to hear AC/DC's "Hells Bells" as Hoffman the future HOF walks out of the bullpen in a Brewers uniform to shut down another team. It is going to be fantastic. Now Doug Melvin if you wouldn't mind, go sign a starting pitcher like Ben Sheets, Jon Garland or Braden Looper. Thanks Doug, we appreciate it.

Hoffman And Brewers "Close"

According to MLB.com the Brewers and all-time saves leader Trevor Hoffman are very "close" on a deal. According to the source it is very close to happening. Hopefully it will be official sometime today.

AC/DC Could Be Blaring Through Speakers At Miller Park In 2009

Yup, "Hells Bells" by AC/DC could be a song you hear quite often at Brewers home games in 2009, specifically when the Brewers have leads going into the top of the 9th. The all-time saves leader in MLB Trevor Hoffman is now a serious target for Doug Melvin and the Crew. Melvin had talks today with Hoffman's agent Rick Thurman who told the Journal Sentinel that the interest is mutual between the Brewers and Hoffman. Hoffman is 41 so the age factor is there, he is probably seeking a 2 year deal for around $7-$9 mill per year. The Dodgers are also said to have had serious talks with Thurman about Hoffman. But it is said that Hoffman wants to close, something he would not do in LA because of Jonathan Broxton, that should give the Brewers a small edge.

Personally I hope we get the deal done. Closer is a need for the club and Hoffman although 41 still seems to have gas in the tank. He converted 30 of 34 save chances in 2008, had an ERA of 3.77, WHIP of 1.037 and 46 K's to only 9 BB's in 45.3 innings pitched. I don't think signing a 41 year old who just came off a good season to a two year deal would be to risky. Cant be anymore risky then signing Eric Gagne to a 1 year $10 mill contract, could it? Talks between Thurman and Melvin should continue tomorrow, hopefully a deal will be struck shortly after.

I'm Back! And The Brewers Still Have Not Done Shit.

Well the holidays are over and my move is complete. So we are finally updating VFBC. First off I have decided to no longer post follow ups to the reader polls. Mostly because I'm lazy and because I'm sure people can see the results and don't need me to explain them. I will probably leave it up for 2 days after the poll closes so people can see the final results, then I will put up a new poll. Sound good? Yeah I thought so to.

Well the Brewers still very quiet on the hot stove front. I think sometime this week or next we will see Melvin make some moves, just my gut feeling. With Randy Johnson now signed with the Giants we can take him off our wish list. The Brewers have recently been linked to Derek Lowe as a "mystery" team, whatever that is. I like Lowe a lot and would love to sign him, but I don't think we have the money to throw at him. If he could be had for 3 years $42-$45 mill I would pull the trigger on that in a heartbeat. But it sounds like Lowe is looking for around $16 mill a season and is a Boras client that coupled with his age not sure he is quite worth that kind of money. He is very good, durable and eats innings though. I would now put him behind Ben Sheets as my top two choices for a starting pitcher. Problem is both of those seem like long shots. Because of that I would say some more realistic choices for the Brewers to add to the rotation would be John Smoltz, Jon Garland or Braden Looper. I wouldn't have a problem with either of those three.

As for a closer, I really like Brandon Lyon and to a lesser extent Takashi Saito. Both could be had fairly cheap. The thing with Saito is his injured elbow, that is a concern so he would have to get checked out. But Lyon would be an awesome power arm closer and it would allow us to not have to worry about using Carlos Villanueva or Seth McClung in that role. I really hope Melvin considers one of these two and gets them soon before another team finally steps up and signs them.

The Milwaukee Brewers 2009 Version Of Gabe Kapler Is....

Former Red Sox/Indian/Met Trot Nixon. Like Kapler, Nixon was a member of the 2004 Red Sox World Championship team. And like Kapler, Nixon signed a minor league deal with Milwaukee and is getting a spring training invite with a good chance to make the club as a 4th or 5th OF. And like Kapler, Nixon will try to turn his career around at an old age and try to contribute in a big way in 2009 like Gabe did in 2008. A have seen a lot of people bitching about this move. I don't see the harm, it's not like Melvin signed him to compete for a starting job? He signed him in hopes that he could bring a veteran presence to the club and be a nice left handed bat off the bench who could occasional give Braun or Hart a day off in the OF. If Nixon comes even close to the numbers Kapler put up in 2008, Melvin will look like a genius. Because in my humble opinion Kapler was one of the best bench players in the entire NL in 2008.

In addition to the Nixon signing the Brewers also inked former Pirates OF Chris Duffy to the same kind of deal, minor league contract with invite to spring training. I could care less about Duffy and I expect him to be in AAA all year. But I could be proven wrong.

If The Cameron Trade Goes Down....

Not only will be get back a cheaper, younger, switch hitting CF with good upside/potential but with Cameron's $10 mill off the books the Brewers will become serious players for free agent closer Brian Fuentes. This according to Tim Brown at Yahoo Sports. Another reason I like the Cameron/Cabrera deal. Fuentes is a very good closer and he is in his prime, it's not like signing Gagne last year after his prime had ended.

Clearing Up The Peavy Rumor

It was just that, a rumor. Someone left a comment in my post about a possible trade of Jake Peavy to the Brewers for Alcides Escobar + and asked where the source was. Well I read about it in the brewerfan.net message board. It originated from some Badger board or blog or something. Anyway, it seems it was just probably made up and nothing more then Internet banter. I was just so excited at the thought of getting Peavy that I had to post something about it. I even emailed Tom Haudricourt at the Journal Sentinel to see if he had heard about such a rumor and here was his reply:

No, I haven't. And it's my understanding that Peavy would nix a trade to Milwaukee. TH

So there you go, even if the Brewers could agree to a trade with the Padres for Jake he would probably nix the deal. It looks like Peavy will be in San Diego at least to start the season.

Winter Meetings Day #1

Day 1 of the GM winter meetings in Las Vegas is in the books. Not a whole heck of a lot going on as far as the Brewers are concerned. Doug Melvin did finally meet with CC Sabathia's agent's, and only about 5 weeks after the Brewers made their initial offer to CC. Melvin's meeting lasted a little less then a half hour and when it was finished it appears the Brewers are still in the running and have a chance at actually retaining Sabathia. Melvin will meet with CC's agent's again in a few days. The "rumors" going around are that to compete with the huge 6 year $140 mill deal the Yankees have offered is to add another year, maybe $10 to $20 mill or maybe have an opt out clause after three years of the deal. That is all speculation at this point though.

The Brewers avoided an arbitration hearing with relief pitcher Todd Coffey as he signed a 1 year $800,000 deal with $200,000 extra possible in incentives. Love the deal! Coffey signed in September and pitched fantastic out of the pen not allowing a single earned run. Still scratching my head a bit as to why the Reds let him go. Good fastball and a good slider/sinker. Great signing by Melvin, low risk possible high reward much like Jorge Julio.

In a article on brewers.com JJ Hardy said he hopes he is not traded and wants to stay a Brewer. Personally I don't want Hardy traded either and I think it's pretty cool he wants to stay in Milwaukee. He has improved every year he has been in the bigs and only looks like he will get better, I don't think he has reached is ceiling yet. I consider him along with Braun and Gallardo as the true cornerstones of the franchise (sorry Prince). Melvin said he won't deal Hardy and I hope he is telling the truth.

I will share my thoughts on each day of the winter meetings, so please check back if you care to read my thoughts. You know, if you actually read this and give a shit and enjoy my writing and thoughts.

My Brewers Offseason To-Do List

1. Extend GM Doug Melvin's contract.

2. Settle the Manager's job. I'm luke warm to Dale Sveum coming back. If Melvin and Attanasio feel there are no worthy candidates that have a proven track record, have had playoff success and can get the most out of this young team. Then you hire Sveum and remove the "interim" from his title. The players like to play for him and his no-nonsense tell it like it is attitude is quite welcome in my opinion. But I would not sign him to longer then a 2 year deal.

3. Try to sign CC Sabathia. I know it is a long shot, but at least make him a good offer that he has to think about.

4. See if you can upgrade 2B, 3B, Closer or CF via free agency or trade. I feel pretty good at every other position.

5. Do NOT trade JJ Hardy. He has improved every season he has played in the big league's and is not even entering his prime yet. He is only going to get better. If the Brewers feel Alcides Escobar is the future at SS try to get JJ to move to 3B where he would be just as good and then sign him to a nice contract to make him happy.

6. DO trade Prince Fielder. But only if it is for a top notch type pitcher assuming we don't re-sign Sabathia. If we do somehow sign CC then you keep Fielder. What do we do at 1B if Fielder is dealt? I have no idea. One possibility is to find a stop gap player or give Brad Nelson a chance to start while you groom 3B prospect Mat Gamel to become a 1B since many feel he won't stick at 3B anyway because of his high amount of throwing errors there.

7. Bring back Gabe Kapler. He was by far one of the best bench players in the entire league as a pinch hitter and a guy who can start once in a while give you quality AB's and play good defense at all three OF spot. A great veteran to have on a club.