Milwaukee Brewers: Ji-Man Choi signs Minor League deal

The Milwaukee Brewers have made another addition to the organization. First baseman Ji-Man Choi has reportedly agreed to a Minor League contract with The Crew.

We thought this deal could happen, not that this deal went too far out on a limb, but it actually did. Choi definitely brings a lot of temptation. However, the Milwaukee Brewers will be his fourth organization, and he has yet to find his niche in the Majors.

Only 26 years old, Ji-man Choi has barely had a chance at the Major League level. Known as an adequate defensive first baseman, Choi has also been able to get on base throughout the Minors. His .305/.402/497 slash line over 1943 plate appearances during seven seasons of Minor League ball show he can hit. However, he sports a .181/.279/.386 in only 147 plate appearances with MLB teams.

Why did Milwaukee sign Choi?

The most likely reason the Milwaukee Brewers signed Choi is for organizational depth. However, GM David Stearns has shown a penchant for finding diamonds in the rough. Choi could prove to be yet another example.

It’s also possible that a first baseman could be on the move. Eric Thames would be a good candidate to be that player. He rebuilt his reputation at the Major League level in 2017, but struggled to stay consistent throughout the season.

If the Milwaukee Brewers trade Thames, Choi could prove to be a brilliant signing. He could play adequate enough defense, while still getting on base to cover any hole that trading Thames would create.

However, trading Thames is far from likely to happen. He showed enough last season to have a chance to prove himself. With two more seasons on his contract, he is already the incumbent by default.

Next: Could A Thames Trade To The Royals Work?

Choi does however still have some team control available. He’s still pre-arbitration eligible, with options available. He may just be the next Hunter Morris, but it’s possible Choi could be so much more. Stay tuned, maybe Choi becomes the next Lyle Overbay.