What exactly is Elian Herrera’s role with the Brewers?

Where exactly will the Brewers place Elian Herrera? Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

When the Milwaukee Brewers signed Elian Herrera off of waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers in October, they never made clear what role he would be playing with the team. In the past, Herrera has flexed versatility around the diamond so maybe the Brewers could find a use for him yet.

The best option for Herrera would be to use him as a back-up infielder. Though he’s only had 71 major league games under his belt, he played 35 of 69 games in the infield so clearly he has some experience there. The Brewers don’t really have a back-up option for the infield unless you count Jeff Bianchi, but he still hasn’t exactly impressed. In the outfield, the Brewers have many players who can fufill the back-up role with Caleb Gindl and Sean Halton leading that class. Herrera would find value as an infielder with his versatility.

Herrera saw the majority of his time in the infield at second and third (33 combined games), both of which are positions the Brewers could always use a second body at. He even played a few games at shortstop, so if Jean Segura needs a day off, perhaps you stick Herrera there. The Brewers would probably have to see how Herrera does in Spring Training as he’ll more than likely battle Bianchi to get on the 25-man roster.

He’s a .251/.336/.328 hitter and has more contact than power at the plate. He’s not going to be someone the Brew Crew will rely on for the big hits, but it seems he can get the job done and hopefully dispel rumors of the Brewers possibility reuniting with Yuniesky Betancourt.

Currently, Herrera sits on the 40-man roster, but is vying for a spot on the 25-man. It would be in the best interest of the Brewers to test Herrera out in the infield and if he doesn’t work there, then so be it. However, you have nothing to lose by testing him out because if he does turn into something, he’ll have been one bargain of a pick-up defensively for the team.