Milwaukee Brewers have “shown interest” in Mets outfielder Curtis Granderson

The weeks leading up to the trade deadline are filled with rumors on trade possibilities. Some are players that make complete sense to add to the team, some are players that don’t fit quite as well but still can contribute plenty, and others likely aren’t much more than due diligence. The most recent rumor for the Brewers may fall into the last category, as it doesn’t seem to make a lot of sense for the Brewers, at least at first.

This rumor definitely falls on the strange side, as the outfield doesn’t appear to be a pressing need for the Brewers right now. Lewis Brinson will likely get the majority of the starts there now, and Brett Phillips is in the minors and ready to come up when needed. However, with the recent demotion of Keon Broxton, Brinson is currently the only true center fielder on the roster. Granderson could provide some stability there, especially with Brinson and Phillips’ limited major-league experience. If the Brewers are serious about a playoff push, going with rookies in center isn’t the smartest idea, and Granderson could give some depth there.

Granderson also does provide some power, though it’s not the greatest batting line either. This season, he’s batted .223/.325/.450, with 13 HR and 37 RBI. He’s about a league-average batter, recording a 103 wRC+ and a .329 wOBA, and is on pace to put up 2 fWAR this season. He would also be another left-handed bat on the bench, which wouldn’t be a bad thing to have for the playoff push.

He would also come at a cheaper cost as well. As a league-average player who is a free agent at the end of the year, the prospect cost to acquire Granderson would be low. The Brewers would take on around $5 million of the $15 million he is owed this season by the Mets as well, and they are in a good position to take that if needed.

While it’s not the most exciting rumor, or the biggest need for the Brewers, Granderson could provide some value to the team. With some experience needed in center field and an extra bat to help with the push, it could be a positive move for the team. As long as it doesn’t block the development of Lewis Brinson or Brett Phillips, or come at a high prospect cost, it’s a deal worth considering.

Statistics courtesy of FanGraphs.