Bowden: Milwaukee Brewers Want To Upgrade The Left Side Of The Infield

[Matthew Lenz]

Relative to other buyers, trade deadline rumors regarding the Milwaukee Brewers have been a bit quiet.

On an episode of Foul Territory on Wednesday, Jim Bowden stoked that fire a bit by reporting that the club is looking to improve the left side of the infield over the next week.

Joey Ortiz has been the primary shortstop for the Brewers this season. In 98 games, he holds an OPS of .589 with 7 home runs, 42 runs scored, and 31 runs batted in. Ortiz has also added 9 stolen bases this season. Defensively, he has continued to be a valuable asset, recording 8 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS). He has also seen time at third and second base. While Ortiz has been great defensively, his offense has been putrid. It's possible the Brewers would be looking for a more balanced player at the position.

Initially a game of musical chairs, Caleb Durbin has locked down the hot corner. Since May 21st, Durbin ranks first in OBP (.391), eighth in slugging (.456), and fifth in wRC+ (142) amongst third baseman. He's hit five home runs and stolen nine bases on the season. Moreover, he currently has 14 DRS. 

What shortstops should the Brewers target? Should they look to upgrade from Durbin? Join the conversation in the comments!

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[cragi]

yeah, just too risky for a WC contender to not at least try adding stability in the infield and bench.  And you cant stockpile prospects forever.