Rumor: Brewers Nearing Deal with Travis Shaw

As covered extensively on this site, the Milwaukee Brewers are in need of a third baseman for the 2021 season.  It appears they have found at least part of their answer in a former friend: Travis Shaw.

Travis Shaw and Brewers are in serious talks, and a deal appears likely @ByRobertMurray on it

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 17, 2021

Travis Shaw in Milwaukee

Travis Shaw first came to Milwaukee in a trade that saw Tyler Thornberg head over to Boston.  Shaw was an immediate success in Milwaukee, hitting 31 home runs and driving in 101 runs  in 2017.  He was nearly as productive in 2018, the first of Milwaukee’s three straight playoff runs.  Despite his batting average falling by almost 30 points, his on-base remained in the .340’s.  He also hit 32 home runs and drove in 86.

It was during that season that Shaw also took some playing time at second base after the Brewers got Mike Moustakas via trade.  In 2019, though, Shaw failed to really get going and was released after 86 games.  He was hitting just .157.

The Toronto Blue Jays

In 2020, Travis Shaw played for the Toronto Blue Jays.  His numbers were not near his 2017-2018 level, but they were better than .157.  He hit .239/.306/.411 with six home runs and 17 RBI.

Why This Deal Makes Sense

The Brewers have one left-handed batter on the bench: Daniel Vogelbach.  Vogelbach is limited defensively to first base, which also limits his late-game availability.  Shaw can play first, second, and third base, and is also left-handed.  He could also platoon at third with Luis Urias, and be a much-needed lefty off the bench.

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It will not be a very expensive deal, and probably will be for just one season.  This is a low-risk, high-reward possibility.

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