Milwaukee Brewers' Infield Up in the Air

As promised, this is the second installment of weekly Brewers coverage.  Last time we left off, Doug Melvin had received a contract extension.  Since then the Brewers have made many changes to their coaching staff.  For anyone who has been away from the TV or computer, here is an update on changes to the Brewer staff:

Manager: Ken Macha (guided the A's to two A.L Division West titles from 2003-2006) 

Bench Coach: Willie Randolph (Fired mid-way in '08 after three and a half seasons as Mets' skipper)

Pitching Coach: Bill Castro (Former Brewers' bullpen coach)

Third Base Coach: Brad Fischer (Managed Madison Mallards of Northwoods League)

Hitting Coach: Dale Sveum: (After being demoted from manager, he stays on with team in a new position, his fourth different position in the last three seasons)

So with those changes in place, let's look at the Brewers infield. 

On paper the potential 2009 squad doesn't look to bad, but with the Brewers need of another quality starter, there is a distinct chance that they may have to ship out some young talent.  So far J.J Hardy and Prince Fielder have been a few names on the chopping block.  Along with those two, third baseman Bill Hall may be on the go as well. 

Hall stressed that he wanted more playing time, but with his dismal hitting against righties, many teams would be weary to go after him.  The team has already declined the option on veteran Craig Counsell, forcing him to enter the free agent market.  Russel Branyan will also be on the market as well. 

As it stands right now, its hard to know who will stay and go.  Offensively, the infield has the capability of putting up strong numbers and while Fielder and Hardy have gotten All Star nods, heavily recruited players like Rickie Weeks and Bill Hall have yet to really come into their own. 

Weeks once again had a rough season, keeping his average under .250 all year. His power numbers have not been there, and while his defense has gotten better, it still needs a lot of work.  Prince Fielder continues to have problems with defense at first as well. 

But if all goes according to plan, the Brewers should be set as long as they keep a hold on Fielder and Hardy, but it will be hard.  Let's say they do, then you will have to look at grabbing a few free agents. 

A versatile infielder like Damian Easley or Rafael Furcal would be nice additions.  Wisconsin's own Mark Grudzielanek would also be a good pick up. 

The Brewers are also lucky to have a deep farm system that will likely come in to play midway through the season.  Alcides Escobar, Hernan Irabarren, Brad Nelson, and former Cub minor leaguer Casey McGehee will all be in the running for spots come spring training.

The only spots that look to be filled as of now would be the catching position.  Jason Kendall, who led all catchers with 150 starts, will be back and Mike Rivera will be there to back him up.  Vinny Rotino and Angel Salome will be competing for a spot in spring once again. 

Hopefully we will be getting some updates in the coming months, but with not much decided during the winter meetings, its hard to know what might transpire.  Not to worry though, I'll be keeping you updated.  This upcoming week, we'll take a look at the Brewers outfield.  Stay tuned!