In theory, the Milwaukee Brewers do not need to do much more with their roster. With their surprise signing of Kolten Wong and the transition of Keston Hiura to first, Milwaukee’s only hole in the lineup could be at third base.
Instead, the Brewers could be looking for a stopgap at first. According to reports, they are interested in Shin-Soo Choo to take over at first base.
Brewers among teams interested in Shin Soo-Choo. They’re looking at him at 1B. https://t.co/ze0OhH8How
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) February 6, 2021
Shin-Soo Choo a strange fit for Milwaukee Brewers
Choo has been an outfielder throughout his career, although he has received more time at the designated hitter spot in recent years. However, he has been working out at first base to expand his market, with the Brewers amongst several teams interested in bringing him on board.
He had a somewhat disappointing season in 2020, posting a .236/.323/.400 batting line with five homers and three doubles in his 127 plate appearances. His batting eye and contact skills were still solid, but Choo’s 10.2% walk rate was his worst since 2011. Likewise, his 26.0% strikeout rate was his worst since a 49 game stint back in 2006.
Chances are, Choo would be a platoon player for Milwaukee. He has performed far better against right handed pitching over his career, and that has especially been the case in recent years. With Avisail Garcia performing better against lefties, there would be a way to get Choo some time in the outfield as well.
The problem with adding Choo at first is that he would cut into Hiura’s playing time. His overall potential and pop makes him a valuable asset in the Brewers’ lineup, but his defensive issues have limited where he can play. While Hiura has the arm for third base, his future is likely at first or the designated hitter role should it ever come to the National League. Likewise, as a less expensive option at the position, it does not make sense for Milwaukee to look to replace him in the lineup.
The Milwaukee Brewers are interested in Shin-Soo Choo. However, given the presence of Keston Hiura, he does not really fit the roster.