Bullpen retains special focus as the Milwaukee Brewers look for relievers – MLB News
The report of Milwaukee Brewers and Jose Veras parting ways on Thursday, November 1, came as a surprise for many. Jose Veras had declined outright assignment to Triple-A Nashville and opted for free agency, prompting the Brewers to look for other options.
The Brewers, which had made their way to the National League Championship Series the past year could not book any spot to the post-season games this season. Having had a struggling first half of the season, they staged a comeback after the All-Star Game but could not find a toehold.
It was the St. Louis Cardinals who went on to get a Wild Card berth. That which was particularly worrying for the Brewers was its bullpen. They, after all, had 29 blown saves. Veras’ departure at the moment brings a moment of reflection for the team.
Milwaukee Brewers' general manager Doug Melvin has for long had his eyes on these developments. He had previously summarised the whole development and the following observations.
"We've had statistical people and scouts looking at how bullpens are put together. It's very difficult," Melvin said. "You take [the Rays'] Fernando Rodney, last year he wasn't very good, now he's one of the best in the game today.”
Melvin has Oakland Athletics’ bullpen as specimen to quote.
“Oakland's bullpen, you look at their bullpen on where they've headed this year, they've had a lot of young guys that didn't have good statistical years in the Minor Leagues. Bullpens are tough to put together because they have such a short period of time to perform."
Melvin also spoke of Veras and how he had made some improvement lately. "He's got a great curveball. He's also got an outstanding fastball, and when he's locating both pitches, he's not going to get hit."
Since he is no longer the part of the Brewers' bullpen, the Brewers are to look for a new reliever to fill his spot. Choices are certainly many as the club has the option to sign contract(s) in the offseason. As to who will they finally bring in is something to be seen in the days to come.
Tags: