The Milwaukee Brewers have suddenly begun to look to upgrade their roster. After an offseason of inactivity, they added Kolten Wong in what was a relatively surprising move. However, they were not content with just upgrading at second base; they had an eye on an upgrade at third as well, as they actively pursued Justin Turner.
In the end, that pursuit was for naught. Turner ended up re-signing in Los Angeles, taking a two year deal worth north of $30 million. This leaves the Brewers right back where they started, potentially looking for an upgrade at the hot corner.
Even though it is late in the offseason, there are still a few options. None of them may be overly exciting, but the Brewers could look to make a move. Or, they could do nothing, and hope that they can find something internally to provide enough offense and defense at third.
Let’s take a look at the Milwaukee Brewers options at third base.
Milwaukee Brewers staying within the organization
As it currently stands, Luis Urias is atop the Milwaukee Brewers depth chart at third base. This is hardly a position that a team with an eye on the postseason wants to be in.
There is no question that he can handle the hot corner defensively. In his 31 games at third base, Urias has saved three runs while showing solid range and a strong enough arm. His glove will certainly play up at the position.
The problem is that he does not have anything close to the bat needed to be a starting third baseman in today’s game. A lifetime .226/.315/.320 hitter in 422 plate appearances, he has just six homers and 13 doubles. His 73 OPS+ could work as a glove first utility man, but not as a starter, regardless of position.
But it comes down to whether or not the Milwaukee Brewers see a better option. If not, Luis Urias may be a stopgap for a year while they hope his bat will develop.