It's true he's no longer a Brewer, but I hope you'll excuse me for breaking the format for a day to say one final thank you to a guy who became one of this community's favorite players: Seth McClung. McClung, who was non-tendered by the Crew, signed a minor league deal with the Marlins yesterday.
So, without further adieu, here's a poem I've prepared for the situation:
We're all here today to say farewell to this guy
Who helped the Brewers win the Wild Card, and raised that belt to the sky.
He was salvaged from the Rays, where he was too fond of the free pass.
But during his time in Milwaukee, his relief work was first class.
We followed his exploits and thoughts via Twitter,
At times they were fun, other times angry or bitter.
His use or misuse exposed a Ken Macha flaw,
But at least he gave us a nickname: he calls Macha "grandpaw."
We started a group on Facebook, hoping to keep him around.
We even gave away some stuff he shipped via UPS Ground.
Alas, our efforts weren't enough to keep Clung on the team.
With Vargas and Hawkins, the pen might burst at a seam.
But it's not all bad news, at least to some perceivers:
In 2010, no one will confuse our two red-headed relievers.
Pitching for the Marlins will keep him closer to home
And if he sticks long enough, he'll get to pitch in their new dome.
So, even if it's a moment many have come to dread,
It's time to say farewell, and good luck, to our friend Big Red.