What are the Milwaukee Brewers going to do with former closer John Axford, who blew it again last night in a 4-3 loss to Pittsburgh in 12-innings.
Axford entered last night’s game in the 8th inning, trying to protect a 3-2 lead. Two hits later and the game was tied. The 3rd blow save for Axford this season as his ERA climbs to 9.20. In 14.2 innings of work, Axford has allowed 24 hits, just shy of 2 per inning. He’s also allowed 16 runs this season, 15 of them earned.
Certainly Ron Roenicke needs to change his approach with Axford if he’s going to stay in Milwaukee. Axford can’t be trusted with the lead.
Francisco Rodriguez
The Brewers might have an alternative. Francisco Rodriguez pitched at Triple (A) again last night and issued a walk while striking out 3. He’s pitched well during his month in the minors and the Brewers now have a decision to make. Move him up to the big league club and pay him a $2-million salary, or release him outright.
The timing could be perfect for a move. John Axford has options left, so he can go back to the minors without having to clear waivers. He can pitch his way out of his funk and rejoin the big league club. In his absence, the Brewers can replace him with Rodriguez.
The Brewers can no longer afford to experiment with Axford at the big league level. It’s costing them games and that’s not a good thing.
Jean Segura
There’s a report by Fox Sports that says the Brewers have offered rookie shortstop Jean Segura a long-term deal.
Here’s why they shouldn’t be so quick to the party with Segura.
The 23-year-old rookie still has plenty of time to go before he’s even eligible for arbitration. Why do the Brewers want to rush matters?
Segura entered Tuesday night’s game against the Pirates hitting .368. But he only played 45 games last season and he’s in his first full Major League season. Let Segura earn his way into a long-term deal.
Segura looks really good now. But what if he gets through this season and slumps next year. Segura hasn’t earned a long-term deal yet and the Brewers have plenty of time to lock him up if they like what they see in 1 or 2 years from now.