MLB Rumors: Should Milwaukee Brewers Consider Re-Signing Shaun Marcum?

The Milwaukee Brewers have apparently made it clear they are willing to allow starter Shaun Marcum to test out free agency despite the right-hander’s veteran experience in the rotation. Should the Brewers seriously consider re-signing the 30-year-old to a three-year contract?

Milwaukee has made the mistake of signing an over the hill starter to a long-term contract before only for it to backfire in their face. However, Marcum has proven the last two years he can be a legitimate threat in the rotation when he is healthy. Obviously, health is the biggest concern for the Brewers and appears to be the main reason why the team is letting him walk.

On the other hand, can Milwaukee really afford to allow a veteran starter to leave the team when the offense has proven to be one of the best in the business? It would be a shame for next season to be a repeat of this year where the only reason the Brewers do not make the playoffs is due to bad pitching.

I understand Milwaukee feels they have a few young arms that have the look of being Major League starters, but is it really worth betting an entire season on it. The Brewers need another veteran arm in the rotation next to starter Yovani Gallardo. Marcum has proven he can get the job done during the regular season, which should seriously be taken into consideration. Obviously, the postseason is a different story but Milwaukee should worry about that problem when the time comes.

I believe Michael Fiers, Wily Peralta, and Mark Rogers can get the job done but it is unknown what will happen when the weight of the season falls on their shoulders. Marcum has at least been there and knows what to expect.

In 54 games with Milwaukee, Marcum has posted a 20-11 record with a 3.63 earned run average and 267 strikeouts in 324 2/3 innings. Obviously, 2011 was a better year than 2012 because of the shoulder injury that bothered him since spring training. However, I believe if he can get back to shape – and for the right price – re-signing Marcum is a no-brainer.

Michael is a MLB and NBA Featured Writer for Rant Sports, but covers topics for various teams in baseball, basketball, and football. Make sure to follow Michael on Twitter @MichaelTerrill and on Facebook.