As of last week, Matt Arnold is the new man in charge of baseball operations. The move was made after David Stearns elected to step down into an advisory role. This change gives Arnold the final say in roster decisions that impact the Brewers. While the World Series is still going on and free agency has not begun yet, there are moves Arnold can make. Here are three moves that he can make right away.
Move #1 that Matt Arnold can make: Add Brice Turang to the 40-man roster
It is inevitable that Brice Turang gets added to the 40-man roster this off-season. The 2018 first round draft pick is Rule 5 draft eligible this winter and likely will be claimed by another team if left unprotected. Additionally, the infielder put together an incredible 2022 season. He flashed good power and was excellent at stealing bases. Pending a major free agent signing, trade, or re-signing of Kolten Wong, it seems likely that Turang will get a chance at every day playing time for the Brewers in 2023.
Move #2 that Matt Arnold can make: Outright Trevor Kelley from the 40-man roster
In his first few days as leader of baseball operations, Arnold outrighted Pablo Reyes and Miguel Sanchez. This cleared up two additional 40-man roster spots. As mentioned above, Brice Turang will need to be added to the 40-man roster in November in order to be protected from the Rule-5 draft. With free agency opening up once the World Series had concluded, Arnold should realize that Kelley is the weakest link in regards to pitchers. He can then replace Kelley with a more viable option.
Move #3 that Matt Arnold can make: Extend manager Craig Counsell
During Matt Arnold and David Stearns press conference, we identified that Counsell’s job is safe for the 2023 season. Next year does also represent the final season in Counsell’s contract. Counsell is the longest tenured manager in the National League. He also hold the most wins as a manager in franchise history. Players seem to love playing under Counsell, so why delay extending him?
Baseball moves and transactions seem to happen at a slow pace over the off season. However, these are three moves that Matt Arnold should make right away. We will see if or when they happen.
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