The Brewers continued to plug away at their need for middle infield help, acquiring utility man Jerry Hairston Jr. from the Washington Nationals for minor league outfielder Erik Komatsu.
Milwaukee has been coveting middle infielders since losing Rickie Weeks to a severely sprained ankle a few days ago. Immediately after the injury, the Brewers brought in Felipe Lopez from the Rays.
But Milwaukee wanted more depth and the versatility Hairston offers peaked their interest. Not only can Hairston play the infield, but he also has the ability to man the outfield. Over the last two seasons, Hairston has played every defensive position except first base and catcher.
“Versatility comes into play with as many injuries as there are in the game today,” Brewers general manager Doug Melvin said. “He can play all over. He has more of a compact [swing] — can drive the ball in the gaps, but he’s more of a guy who will work the count. He hits left-handers good, and the reports are that he’s a great clubhouse guy.”
Not only does he provide defensive versatility, but he’s also not bad at the plate. This year the 35 year old has posted an OPS of .727 as a role player for the Nationals.
Komatsu has spent the season playing for the Brewers Double-A affiliate. In 93 games, the 23 year old has hit at a clip of .294/.393/.416. Komatsu’s primarily played center field in the minors but has also spent time at each of the corner outfield spots.
Over his 4 year career, Komatsu’s been able to maintain a batting average over .300 while reaching base nearly 40% of the time.
For more on the Brewers and Nationals, be sure to check out Reviewing the Brew and District on Deck.