2012 MLB Predictions: Aramis Ramirez Will Thrive with the Milwaukee Brewers

With the departure of Prince Fielder and the trade of Casey McGehee to the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Milwaukee Brewers needed to add some offensive firepower. Sure, they have Ryan Braun, Corey Hart and Rickie Weeks back for the 2012 season, but they needed someone to fill in the middle of the lineup; to help the Brewers reach the postseason for the second year in a row.

Enter Aramis Ramirez.

After eight-and-a-half seasons with the Chicago Cubs, the organization thought it would be best to go with someone else, and he became the top third baseman in the free-agent market. However, Ramirez decided to stay within the NL Central and went to the Brewers, signing a three-year deal worth $36 million.

Now, by no means will Aramis Ramirez be able to fill the hole that Prince Fielder left behind. However, that doesn't mean he won't be a significant part of this team.

Aramis Ramirez has been one of the most consistent batters over the past decade. He constantly records 25-to-30 home run seasons with a batting average ranging between .280 and .310.

Even last season, on a horrible Cubs team, he was still able to record 26 home runs and 93 RBI with a .306 batting average, earning the Silver Slugger award for his position.

Now imagine him batting in the cleanup spot with guys like Rickie Weeks, Nyjer Morgan and Ryan Braun in front of him. Not only that, but his new home is Miller Park, a hitter-friendly stadium. Because of these two things, he'll have a much better opportunity to drive in runs that he wouldn't be able to get if he stayed in Chicago. Plus, if Corey Hart can continue to perform and Mat Gamel can develop into a 20-home-run hitter, Ramirez will also reach home plate just as often.

At age 33, Aramis Ramirez is still a force in the division, and he'll thrive with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2012.

2012 Projections: .294 BA, 26 HR, 95 RBI, 46 BB, 84 R