The Milwaukee Brewers lost Manny Pina to a two-year deal to the Atlanta Braves a couple of weeks ago. Today, Eduardo Escobar, whom the Brewers acquired mid-season, signed a two-year deal with the New York Mets. The deal is reportedly worth about $20 million.
Eduardo Escobar with the Milwaukee Brewers
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Eduardo Escobar made his first career All-Star team this season. While the Brewers had five All-Stars of their own, Escobar made it as an Arizona Diamondback. The Brewers acquired Escobar ahead of the trade deadline for a pair of minor leaguers. At the time of the trade, Escobar was hitting .246/.300/.478 with 22 home runs and 65 RBI.
After the trade, the Brewers utilized Escobar not only at his natural position at third, but also at first base. In 48 games with the Brewers, he hit .268/.342/.458 and six home runs and 25 RBI.
Were the Brewers in the Mix for Escobar?
There were no solid rumors of the Milwaukee Brewers heavily pursuing Eduardo Escobar. Though he was a great addition and fun clubhouse personality, the Brewers apparently have plans at all the positions Escobar plays. Luis Urias is primed to take over as the everyday third baseman after his breakout 2021 season. Kolten Wong is entrenched at second base, which is a position Urias also can play.
The only real possibility for regular playing time, which Escobar certainly deserves, in Milwaukee would come at first base. The problem is that first base is not his natural position. Prior to coming to Milwaukee, Escobar had played no games at first base. While Escobar was serviceable at the position, he is not the long-term answer.
What Is Next for the Brewers?
The Milwaukee Brewers have already made a couple of low-key transactions this offseason. First, they signed catcher Pedro Serevino to replace Pina. Second, they traded for reliever J.C. Mejia from the Cleveland Guardians. It will be interesting to see what the Brewers do to address the first base position. They have already talked about moving Keston Hiura to the outfield. Rowdy Tellez and Dan Vogelbach remain under club control. However, there is little doubt that the Brewers will try to at least find a right-handed bat at the position as well.
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