Last season in late September the Brewers picked up Mike Lamb, to be used as a pinch hitter and reserve player. Lamb went 3 for 11 during the stretch run, but was not put on the post season roster. On tuesday the Brewers decided to essenially release Lamb, by not putting him on the opening day roster. He has the option to play for AAA Nashville, but will likely hold out for another major league gig.
With this release the Brewers have likely opened up a roster spot for 26 year old Casey McGehee, who was formerly a member of the Cubs minor league system. McGehee has suprised most Brewers fans by posting a .364 batting average including six homeruns and 15 RBI's in 55 spring training at bats. I would, however, be cautious about his plate discipline as he has not been walked once this spring, where as every other Brewer with at lease thirty at bats has drawn a walk. However, he has not struck out a lot either, only four K's in 55 at bats, which is a good sign in a young player. Given the lack of walks and strikeouts tells me that he is a good aggressive begginning of the count hitter.
McGehee is also a versatile defender. He fits best at third base, but can come in to play at second (if weeks struggles). He also can play first base and Macha says he can even become an emergency catcher.
Macha has not guaranteed McGehee a roster spot yet, but it is very likely that we will see him as a part of this team during the season. If Macha decides not to put him on the team right out of the gate I would be suprised. He is leading the team in spring training homers (tied with Corey Hart) and I believe has shown enough to be given a chance.
Keywords: Casey McGehee, Doug Melvin, Ken Macha, Mike Lamb, Milwaukee Brewers, Ryan Braun
