Brewer Daily News for March 9th: Thornburg Looks Strong, Gonzalez unsure at first

Welcome again ladies and gentlemen to another edition of Brewer Daily News. This Saturday morning, the Brewers will be looking to prepare for a game against the Cincinnati Reds today as yesterday’s game against the Texas Rangers was rained out in the fourth inning. Tyler Thornburg, who started in yesterday’s game had a strong three innings. In the second bit of news today, shortstop Alex Gonzalez has spoken up about his uncertainty of playing first base in Corey Hart‘s absence. 

Tyler Thornburg will definitely have shot to be on the 25-man roster if he continues to pitch well. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

In his second start of the spring, Thornburg went three innings, didn’t allow a hit while walking two and striking out two. The game would then go in the hands of Tom Gorzelanny in the 4th inning who surrendered two runs before the game was ultimately called.

Thornburg, who had a short, but wild 2012 season, will look to expand upon that in 2013. Currently, Thornburg doesn’t have a slated spot in the rotation, and may start the season in Triple-A, but he could definitely find himself up in the majors if he continues to succeed.

Moving on, Gonzalez looks less likely to be a candidate for first base as he feels the position is rather difficult.

"“I don’t know what I want to say,” he said. “It’s not real fun to play first for me. I’ve tried to make adjustments, be relaxed at first and let the thing happen.” – via Brewers.com"

It’s still unsure who is going to play first at this point, but Taylor Green probably poses to be the best bet on Opening Day. Gonzalez will more than likely be the back-up to the young Jean Segura at shortstop and hopefully will be able to capitalize in 2013 as he missed 2012 due to a torn ACL.

While Gonzalez will more than likely not play first, he’ll take his veteran presence to help the younger guys like Segura, Green and possibly Jeff Bianchi this season. Manager Ron Roenicke went on to say that he understands the challenge for Gonzalez if he were to transition to first temporarily, as he went between different roles during his playing days.