Milwaukee Brewers: Another flurry of transactions

The Milwaukee Brewers activated left fielder Ryan Braun and second baseman Jonathan Villar. Catcher Stephen Vogt has already been added to the 25-man roster. Which players are going to Colorado Springs? Which players might not be back at all?

Lewis Brinson

Brinson went back to Triple-A Colorado Springs on Monday. In 14 games at the Major League level, Lewis Brinson slashed .097/.200/.161 in 35 plate appearances. This wasn’t the start he wanted, but this is a microscopic sample size that won’t matter in the long run. Brinson is still an elite talent, and he’ll be back with the Milwaukee Brewers at the next opportunity. He needs an extended look at the Major League level before it’s time to start worrying about Brinson’s future.

Jett Bandy

Bandy was also optioned to Colorado Springs. Jett Bandy owns a .211/.287/.280 slash line with six homers in 43 games with the Milwaukee Brewers. He was in a timeshare with Manny Pina that saw him struggle with the bat and the glove.

This move was a direct response to the addition of Stephen Vogt. Bandy will have another opportunity for a share of the catching duties, but for now he’s a capable option if there’s an injury.

Nick Franklin

Franklin was DFA’ed for the second time this season on Tuesday. The Brewers added Nick Franklin when the Tampa Bay Rays designated him for assignment in April. Franklin struggled to find playing time with the the crowded Brewers outfield. He also couldn’t find consistent at bats in the Brewers infield once Eric Sogard emerged as a capable option at second base. Franklin has a .195/.258/.317 in 89 plate appearances in a Milwaukee Brewers uniform.

Another team can claim Franklin, and that may very well happen. He has the talent to hold down a Major League roster spot, but has been unable to find consistent playing time. He can also opt for free agency or accept the assignment. It would be useful to have another utility man in the organization, but Franklin could get passed over for up and coming prospects if he remains with the team.

Next: What Should The Brewers Do At The Trade Deadline?

The changes to the Milwaukee Brewers roster are done for now, but more moves will happen over the next few months. Whether it’s veterans like Bandy and Franklin coming back, or future stars making their debut likely depends on the Brewers staying near the top of the standings.