Backup catcher
Kirk Patnode, known as one of the best defensive backstops in the game, was the last member of the Brewers active roster who was arbitration eligible at the end of the season and as yet unsigned. Now he is, as he and the club agreed on a $93,000 deal for next season.
The general feeling is not only that the pitching staff counts on his incredible skills behind the plate but also that his leadership in the clubhouse will be needed more than ever next season, with the likelihood being that longtime team captain
Matt Helm won't be brought back for 1979. (The club has an option to buy-out the last year of his contract.)