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Sean Halton was invited to spring training with a chance to win the first base job in Maryvale, but apparently it wasn't much of a chance. The Brewers optioned him to Nashville last week despite the fact that he hit .261 with a .433 on base percentage this spring, and today they outrighted him off the 40-man roster.
Being outrighted means Halton cleared waivers without being claimed by another team, which is something of a surprise for a 26-year-old with a career .290/.351/.450 batting line in five minor league seasons. He played in 42 games for the Brewers last season and hit .239/.291/.386 with four home runs in 111 plate appearances.
With this move out of the way, the Brewers now have 38 players on their 40-man roster. At least one of those open spots will likely go to a first baseman, with Lyle Overbay and Mark Reynolds currently in camp as non-roster invitees. The other spot is less clear, but could go to lefty reliever Zach Duke.