Eric Young Jr. Would Solidify Milwaukee Brewers’ Bench
Having a good utility man who can play several different positions and provide speed on the bases is a luxury that few teams have. For years the Milwaukee Brewers have attempted but failed to have successful ingredients of a strong bench. Heading into 2015, the team again lacks reliable bats and gloves off the bench. By signing Eric Young jr., who was recently non-tendered by the New York Mets, the Brewers can fortify their bench and have a spot starter who can contribute on a daily basis if necessary.
Looking at their lineup, it is clear that they are going to struggle when facing even mediocre lefties. With Adam Lind and Scooter Gennett punchless against them, it will be an uphill battle to earn victories against any southpaw. By adding Young, the Brewers have a switch hitting bat who has fared even better as a right-handed batter (.261 vs. lefties in his career compared to .248 vs. right-handed pitching).
While he does not have the raw power that Rickie Weeks had last season off the bench, he strikes out less and has more speed and smarts on the bases. While last season was a down year for him all around, Young finished first in the National League with 46 steals in 2013 (finishing ahead of Jean Segura).
Having this speed as an option to plug into the lineup, along with Carlos Gomez and Segura, or on the bases in a pinch would greatly play to the Brewers’ advantage. His ability to play the outfield would also provide depth if one of the team’s outfielders went down at any point during the season.
Last season, the Brewers’ bench was a joke and it needs to be upgraded. Adding Young would be the first step towards turning the bench from a liability to a weapon.
Pete Schwichtenberg is a Milwaukee Brewers writer for Rantsports. Follow @schwick26_pete, Like him on Facebook, or Add him to your Google Network.
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