Counsell, Wolf, etc.

The Brewers have said that they want a decision from veteran utility infielder Craig Counsell before the Winter Meetings are over. They don't need to sign him, but they want to know whether he will be back or not, for sure. Says Melvin, "Craig's a good player and a veteran guy. We'd like to have him back." In case he isn't the Brewers have already made some moves, including minor league journeyman infielder Adam Heether to the 40 man roster and claim infielder Luis Cruz off waivers from the Pirates.

Reliever Mark DeFelice who is expected to miss all of 2010 after under going shoulder surgery may be back on a minor league deal. As I expected this will intensify the Brewers' search for bullpen help. Melvin has said that they have had contact with some agents, but nothing real solid as of yet.

It was well known that Melvin had told Jason Kendall's agent Arn Tellum that $5 million was too much for a catcher and given him a number, and that number is finally out. As you could've guessed by Zaun's 1.9 million dollar deal $2 million was the cap. Arn said no thanks, and the two parted ways. Zaun's contract does include up to 600k in incentives based on games played though...

The USA today claims that a Randy Wolf signing is imminent, but interestingly enough Wolf's agent (also Arn Tellum) has yet to arrive at the meetings... Things could have been ironed out before hand though. It is typically policy to not announce signing until a physical has been made as well...

Also, there again claims to be interest in Brewers right fielder Corey Hart. One team that came up specifically was the Rockies. I'm not sure why they Brewers would do this, as in the minors Matt Gamel is all there is, and as he is not an outfielder, it would just create another hole.

Also, the idea of swapping out Jeff Suppan in a trade of bad contracts was put out there, not really a rumor just an interesting idea. The name that was brought up was Juan Pierre, the speedy Dodgers outfielder who is owed 18.5 million over the next two years. Suppan will make $12.5 this season with a $2 million buyout for his 2011 option. Interesting idea, as Pierre has a nice career OBP, is a base stealer and bats from the left side. Also, the Dodgers are very short on pitching, and maybe Suppan would fair better in the cavernous Dodger Field. Soup also lives in LA... Just an interesting thought.