The Milwaukee Brewers' recent trade for Lance McCullers Jr. and Colton Gordon is a strategic move that showcases their unique approach to team building. While the team is known for its strong farm system, they have a history of acquiring players who might not initially seem like the best fit. This strategy is driven by their preference to keep their prospects, even if it means taking on players who don't tick all the boxes.
One key insight is the Brewers' focus on team control. With Gordon, they gain a young left-hander with an option year and five years of team control, a valuable asset in a deep pitching market. This move is particularly intriguing given the team's history of developing pitchers with high spin rates, a trait Gordon possesses. The Brewers' pitching lab and their success in developing such pitchers make Gordon an attractive addition.
The trade also highlights the Brewers' willingness to take on risk. McCullers, despite his name recognition, has been plagued by injuries and hasn't been the same since his prime. The team is hoping he can provide innings relief while Brandon Woodruff is injured, a risky move given his recent history. However, the Brewers' need for rotation depth, especially with recent injuries to Woodruff, Kyle Harrison, and Jacob Misiorowski, makes this a calculated risk.
The trade for Gordon and McCullers is a testament to the Brewers' unique approach to team building. They are willing to take on players who might not be the most established or healthy, but who offer long-term value and fit their specific needs. This strategy, while risky, has the potential to pay off, especially in a competitive division like the NL Central.
In my opinion, the Brewers' decision to acquire these players is a bold move that showcases their willingness to think outside the box. It remains to be seen if it will pay off, but it's a strategy that could very well keep them in the playoff race as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
