|
In what was an apparent last-minute change in philosophy by the Brewers front office, it was announced today that the team had signed perhaps the premiere free agent on the market, 1967 SJL MVP Ryan "Boxy" Rodgers.
The feeling was that the front office and on-field management team, who had earlier been targeting MGL Pitcher-of-the-Year Jaime Schardein, were a bit scared off by the former Charlotte Sting ace's age (he will turn 32 before the 1968 season starts) and some belief on the part of the scouting staff that he might be experiencing some decline soon. Plus, rumors are that the team believes they might get nearly as good pitching production from International Free Agent Diego Ramirez, out of Cuba, who just a little over a month ago turned 28 and is reportedly demanding a great deal less money then the established WPK star Schardein. No word yet on what the team might have offered Ramirez or whether he is likely to sign with the Brewers.
Perhaps even more so, the front office felt that a lack of run scoring was the biggest issue that kept the Brewers around the .500 mark in 1967. Even though Rodgers will not help with the lack of HR power in the lineup, he is a premiere hitter who will get on base at a high rate and drive in runs with extra-base hits and line drive singles. This also takes a bit of pressure off youngster Pat Rondeau, who should still get plenty of playing time as he is capable of playing all three outfield slots very well. Speculation is that it does likely mean that Zack Banks will be on the trading block as the odd man out in the Brewers outfield.
It appears that the Brewers, if not exactly going all out, are certainly looking to make a statement in 1968 and beyond.
|