The Milwaukee Brewers made a flurry of moves on Monday, including trading for Atlanta Braves third baseman Juan Francisco and releasing Alex Gonzalez.
Brewers trade for Juan Francisco, release Alex Gonzalez
Milwaukee is desperately trying to get more production out of their corner infield spots.
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The Braves designated Gonzalez for assignment last Thursday to clear a spot on the roster for rookie pitcher Alex Wood. Francisco hit .241/.281/.398 in 115 plate appearances for the Braves this season. Milwaukee sent minor league left-handed pitcher Thomas Keeling to Atlanta for Francisco.
Gonzalez will likely split time at first and third base for the Brewers, as the recently released Gonzalez had made 33 appearances at the corner infield spots for Milwaukee. The former shortstop has been horrendous at the plate in 2013, hitting .177/.203/.230 over 118 plate appearances.
Francisco might take some playing time away from Yuniesky Betancourt, who has served as the Brewers primary first baseman this season. Betancourt had a quick start to the season but has struggled offensively as of late, hitting .221/.250/.374 overall.
The Brewers also recalled second baseman Scooter Gennett from Triple-A Nashville, optioning Mike Fiers to Triple-A in a corresponding move. Gennett hit .297/.342/.376 in 221 plate appearances, and gives Milwaukee a left-handed bat off the bench.
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