According to Anthony Fenech of Free Press, the Milwaukee Brewers are interested in trading for Justin Verlander of the Detroit Tigers. The Brewers are in the midst of a five game losing streak. Plus, their lead over the Chicago Cubs in the division is just one game. The Brewers recent struggles could lead to the Brewers finally making a move.
Verlander to Brewers would be expensive
The package the Brewers would give up would maybe not be the biggest, but in terms of salary, it might be hard. Verlander is set to make around $12 million for the rest of this season.
Then, he is owed $28 million for the next two seasons. However, the Brewers can actually afford the pitcher if they feel he can contribute to their team. Plus, the Tigers said they would throw in money to help move Verlander
The Brewers need starting pitching as Zach Davies is not a true ace, and the team is still without Chase Anderson. The team is in turmoil in terms of their recent play. Not to mention, their schedule is going to be harder. The Brewers also face the Cubs next weekend which could possibly result in the Cubs taking a lead over the team.
Verlander was second in the Cy Young voting last season but has been having a tough season this year. He has a Earned Run Average over five and is averaging 5 1/3 innings a start this season.
The Brewers may be turned off by his age, but the team has 11 days to make a decision.
Sonny Gray still linked to team
There are reports that the Houston Astros are speeding up their pursuit of Gray. However, the Brewers are still linked as a contender to trade for Gray. The Brewers have the prospects to acquire the Oakland A's ace, and he has a connection to the team.
The Brewers pitching coach used to be the pitching coach for Gray when he played for the University of Vanderbilt.
Gray has pitched stellar in his recent five starts. He has an earned run average under 1.70 in those starts and has gone at least six innings in all of those starts. The Brewers don't have a reliable starter, and Gray would be a huge upgrade to contend with the Cubs.
Cubs keep rolling, which might speed up decision
No matter who the Brewers go after, they might have to make a decision soon. The Cubs recently went out and traded for Jose Quintana, and are winners of six straight. If the Brewers don't find help to fix their downward spiral, the Cubs might have the confidence to take over the lead. It doesn't hurt that the Cubs are linked to going after another bullpen arm. We might see a move from Milwaukee very soon.
