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The Milwaukee Brewers may have lost the Manny Machado sweepstakes, but that doesn’t mean they are out of the hunt for middle infield help. According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the Crew could possibly be a landing spot for Asdrubal Cabrera of the New York Mets.
Familia not the only Mets player drawing interest; source says multiple teams have inquired about Asdrubal Cabrera, though no deal is imminent. Brewers and D-backs believed to be among potential suitors.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) July 21, 2018
The 32-year-old Cabrera is in the last season of a three-year deal he signed with the Mets. Since joining the team, he has been an asset offensively. This year, Cabrera is batting .281/.334/.490, 17 home runs, and a 125 wRC+, well above the offensive contributions of the current middle infield talent.
Cabrera is also versatile, with recent experience at 2B, SS and 3B. But, he is no defensive wizard and comes with his own liabilities. Second base is probably his best defensive home, and even there he’ll make some costly mistakes.
Regardless, the Brewers have not been getting strong enough play at second to be picky of their options. Cabrera offers a clear offensive upgrade. Although his defense is bad, the same can be said for most of the players regularly put out to play the position. At least with Cabrera, you could get offensive production with a lower payment since he is a rental.