Despite being picked by many to not be a postseason contender, the Milwaukee Brewers find themselves in first place in the NL Central. They recently regained the lead in the division thanks to a big sweep of the Cincinnati Reds on the road. However, the Brewers offense has been pitiful this season and they must prioritize it at the deadline. The player they can acquire to help jumpstart this stalling offense is Jeimer Candelario.
Milwaukee Is Struggling Offensively Once Again
Embed from Getty ImagesThe reason why the Brewers are in first place is mostly because of their pitching staff. The offense’s inability to capitalize on scoring chances is putting a heavy burden on both the starters and relievers. The Brewers currently have one of the worst offenses in all of baseball. They are ranked toward the bottom of the league in many major offensive categories. The Brewers need a game-breaking bat in the lineup. As the lineup sits right now, Milwaukee is lucky to be in first place.
Something else plaguing Milwaukee’s offense recently is injuries. First baseman Rowdy Tellez had to have finger surgery and isn’t expected to be back until August. Brian Anderson was also recently added to the injured list with a back injury.
Calendario Is Having A Career Year
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Washington Nationals are currently in last place in the NL East and will be sellers at the deadline. After a poor 2022 season, Candelario was non-tendered by the Detroit Tigers and is currently having a career year in 2023. He’s currently .259 with 15 home runs and 46 RBI with an OPS of .819. He’s also just one of 24 players to have at least 40 extra-base hits this season. With Candelario eligible for free agency after this season, Washington will be looking to move him.
He Brings Versatility
Embed from Getty ImagesCandelario brings versatility to Milwaukee. He can play both third and first base as well as be a designated hitter. He can also switch hit which gives Milwaukee another advantage offensively. The Brewers love signing players that can be versatile. The Brewers desperately need help at all three of those spots. While Candelario hasn’t played first base since COVID shortened 2020 season, he is still capable of playing it. Despite being picked by many to have a bounce-back year, current designated hitter Jesse Winker has somehow had a worse season than he did in 2022. Rowdy Tellez is experiencing a drop-off from last season and Brian Anderson has cooled off significantly since his hot start.
He Can Help Out With Milwaukee’s Lefty Issues
This season, Milwaukee’s offense has been awful against left-handed starting pitchers. It seems like every time the Brewers’ offense faces a lefty, they make them look like Sandy Koufax. As a team, Milwaukee has put up an OPS of .681 against them this season. While he has been a force against righties, Candelario has been productive against left-handed pitchers. He’s put up an OPS of .731 with three home runs and 11 RBI. He has also only struck out 23 times in 101 at-bats this season.
It Won’t Take A Lot To Acquire Him And It Would Be A Great Move
Jeimer Candelario is eligible for free agency at the end of the season. He was also non-tendered last season by the Tigers. Given that he’ll most likely be just a rental player, Milwaukee won’t have to give up top prospects to get him. If Milwaukee gives the Nationals Tyrone Taylor and Felix Valerio (number 15 prospect) then that should get the trade done.
Candelario’s ability to play multiple positions, hit from both sides, and contribute consistently is exactly what the Brewers need for the stretch run. More importantly, he has been productive against left-handed pitchers this season. The Nationals need to stockpile more prospects and the Brewers need Jeimer Candelario’s bat in their lineup. The Brewers have the prospects to get the deal done and there is no reason why they should take a pass on acquiring Jeimer Candelario.
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