Overbay Traded to Toronto!
Brewers trade Keith Ginter
Another deal made this Winter
Another day, another deal. That seems to be the reocurring theme with the Brewers this off-season. Milwaukee will acquire right-handed pitcher Justin Lehr and outfielder Nelson Cruz from Oakland in exchange for Keith Ginter.
Ginter was a great utility man for the Brewers finding time at second and third base last year as well as time in the outfield. His occasional power and gritty defense made for a versatile player off the bench or to fill in with the injuries to Junior Spivey in 2004. He hit .262 in 2004 with 19 HRs and 60 RBI.
The 27 year old Justin Lehr should fit nicely in the depleted bullpen, posting an ugly 5.23 ERA in 27 games for Oakland. But in AAA Sacramento he was 4-2 with a 2.65 ERA collecting 13 saves in 32 games. He also struck out 40 while only walking 10 in 37.1 innings. He demonstrates excellent control as seen with his low WHIP with a fastball that reaches the mid 90s.
Nelson Cruz is an interesting acquisition. Traded from the Mets to the Athletics he has been making significant progress in their system. During his time in the Dominican Winter League he is batting .372 with 2 HRs and 16 RBI in just 13 games. In 2004 he played at all 3 levels batting .326 with 26 HR, 99 RBI and 42 doubles.