Uncertainties

With Opening Day rapidly approaching I can't help but with that Milwaukee had just one more week to prepare. That would allow them to find out what the hell is wrong with Ryan Braun. It would allow Trevor Hoffman more time mend. And pitchers like Riske, Villy, and Parra could fine-tune themselves. Because let's face it, the Crew looks pretty shaky heading in to the season.

With that being said, there is plenty of optimism that can be found. There were 5 home runs hit in yesterdays 12-8 win against the Dodgers. Prince Fielder jacked one over 450 feet!

In today's game, Braden Looper made his first "A" game start and bombed it pretty bad. He gave up 7 hits and 6 runs in only 2+ innings (scheduled to go 4). I wouldn't read too much in to this.

Melvin is distraught over the rumors being spread involving their interest in Jake Peavy. We could only wish they were true. Milwaukee could surely use him as their #1. It seems that Bill Hall's loose lips may have brought this upon the Brewers clubhouse.

Milwaukee did indeed cut Trot Nixon yesterday. This leaves a pretty good shot for Brad Nelson to grab that bench spot. I can't wait to see big ass' Prince Fielder and Brad Nelson sitting on the bench with little Craig Counsell in the middle when the Crew is up to bat. HERE is a nice little story by USA Today on Brad Nelson. In my job, I talk with a number of people from Iowa over the phone on a daily basis. One used to play against Brad in high School and they were both drafted the same year. He said Brad used to be a pitcher and was a hell of a hurler. Nelson still has to compete with McGahee and Gwynn Jr. for the fourth outfielder spot.

Milwaukee seems to be the picked finishing in 4th place by a number of publications. THIS one included, which was posted on MLB.com today. Let the Brewers fly under the radar. Their offense is just too good to dismiss. If they can blast homers and lead the NL in that category, I can see the Crew fighting for a wild card. If the bats make up for the lack of pitching, they'll be a tough one to beat.

Lastly, prayers go out for the folks in North Dakota.