Rafael Palmeiro apparently is hoping for a comeback. This is in no way even close to a move the Milwaukee Brewers should consider, but it is interesting nonetheless.
At 53 years old, it is a curious decision. After an unsettling ending to an otherwise great career, this move looks to be nothing more than redemption. Palmeiro’s career ended with a suspension and release for performance enhancing drugs in 2005.
His career stats are excellent. A .288 batting average, over 3,000 hits, and over 500 homers show a guy who could play baseball. That being said, in his final season at 40 years old, he hit .266. In the passing 13 years it would be tough to think those numbers would improve.
Palmeiro, however is confident in his abilities to make the comeback. In an article on CBS, he cites a healthy diet and work ethic as his reasoning for a successful potential return. But, that same article tears the idea down.
Especially at his age, GMs want to see success in an independent league or overseas first. It makes sense. However, that is not what Palmeiro has in mind. He thinks if he can get a shot in Spring Training then he will make the team.
In terms of the Milwaukee Brewers, he does not fit. There is absolutely no need for a 53 year old first baseman. Even if he goes overseas and performs, he will be 54 at the youngest. Even though the Crew has decent history with overseas players, Palmeiro will not be an Eric Thames sequel.
It is questionable why this move would potentially even happen. Maybe beyond the redemption aspect, there is the family aspect. Palmiero has had two sons play professionally. Neither played for the Milwaukee Brewers, and only one is still playing.
Both were a part of the Orioles organization. The older son, Patrick, stopped playing in 2014 after hitting .260 in his third season of Rookie ball. The younger son, Preston is 22. He hit .253 in full A ball last season.
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No matter what this is a weird thing. At his age no one will take this seriously, and if they do it will be a great show. But the Milwaukee Brewers will not and should not sign Palmeiro. No one in the MLB should.