The Milwaukee Brewers desperately needed to add depth to their outfield. There are a total of four outfielders on their depth chart, with Hunter Renfroe, Christian Yelich, and Lorenzo Cain starting and Tyrone Taylor backing up all three spots. that simply is not going to be enough for the 2022 season.
This is something that the Brewers were clearly aware of as well. According to reports, they have signed Andrew McCutchen, adding another solid bat and outfield depth to the lineup.
Milwaukee Brewers get needed piece with Andrew McCutchen
McCutchen may not see much time in the outfield for the Brewers as he cost the Phillies seven runs in left last season. However, he does provide another option if they look to give their starting outfield a day or two off, providing Craig Counsell a way to shuffle his players around. Having that capability can make a major difference.
What McCutchen does provide is another solid bat for a lineup that was in need of more offensive capabilities. He produced a .222/.334/.444 batting line in his 574 plate appearances, hitting 27 homers and 24 doubles. Despite a career worst batting average, McCutchen still drew 81 walks as he continued to get on base at a solid clip.
That ability to get on base, coupled with his power, will make a difference for the Brewers lineup. They have already made moves to revamp the roster prior to the lockup as they acquired Renfroe in a deal that allowed them to part with Jackie Bradley Jr. Should Willy Adames and Luis Urias replicate their performance from last year, and Yelich can somehow return to form, they may finally have the type of lineup that can complement their impressive pitching staff.
The Milwaukee Brewers have added a needed piece with Andrew McCutchen. Not only does he provide outfield depth, but he is the type of bat they missed.