2010 MLB Predictions: What I Expect from Mat Gamel

No player on the Brewers roster faces more uncertainty in 2010 than Mat Gamel.

Over the winter, Gamel's name came up in the following scenarios: replacing Corey Hart in right field, becoming the new first baseman if Prince Fielder was traded, playing third base full-time, splitting time at third with Casey McGehee, being a bench player, or being traded away to acquire a starting pitcher.

The future of the one-time top prospect in the Brewers system now seems in limbo, and no one, not even Gamel, is quite sure what will happen this year.

After a dominant 2008 minor league campaign that saw him hit 20 home runs and drive in 99 runs, he split time between Nashville and Milwaukee in 2009.

In 78 games at Nashville, he hit .278 with 11 home runs and 48 RBI. He played in 61 games for the Brewers, hitting .242 with five home runs and 20 RBI.

Not only was it a struggle for Gamel at the plate, but he also had his issues in the field. He has decent range for the position, but his throws are wild and incredibly inaccurate. That combination has led many to believe he is destined for either the outfield or first base.

Although Gamel's average dipped with the Brewers, he still maintained a solid on-base and slugging percentage. More experience and playing time this year should see an increase in his average, and along with his patience and power, he should turn into a very good big league hitter.

Playing better defense will be the key for Gamel. If he improves his footwork and throwing at the hot corner, he will very likely be named the full-time starter, moving McGehee to a bench role.

If his defense hasn't improved, he'll continue to share time at third with McGehee and even Craig Counsell.

This is an important season for Gamel, but his real value to the Brewers will come once a decision is made on Prince Fielder. Should Fielder be traded at any point over the next two years or decide to leave via free agency after the 2011 season, Gamel is the odds-on favorite to take his place.

If the Brewers somehow sign Fielder to a long-term deal, Gamel may then become trade bait to bring in some young pitching.

For now, fans should expect Gamel to become a full-time starter at third base in 2010. He will cause headaches with his glove in the field, but much like Ryan Braun did a few years ago, his bat will make up for any deficiencies in the field.

He has the talent to hit at least .280 over the course of a full season. Add in the power of 20 home run potential, and this should be the year Mat Gamel becomes a household name around baseball.

To read more by Jesse Motiff, click here .