It looks like the Brewers have finally taken a win now attitude. This winter Doug Melvin worked mostly on picking up some help in the bullpen, which was badly needed especially at the end of last season. I think Melvin and the boys did a good job at filling that need with some proven veterans, who themselves may all benefit from a change of scenery. Since the mental side of the game is always stressed so much, especially for relievers, coming to a place like Milwaukee with good fans and a great team should help these guys be pretty solid.

   The crew also went out and got a great new number 2 hitter and center fielder in Mike Cameron. At first I wasn't happy about this one because he starts off the season on suspension for drugs and hid acquisition forced moving Billy Hall again which he wasn't very happy about. But slightly bruised egos aside, it looks like this deal's  going to work out just fine. So far Cameron has been an extremely positive force in the clubhouse and has already done a lot to help Ryan Braun with his transition to the outfield. Plus what veteran player with a bit of pop in his bat wouldn't love to hit between Rickie Weeks and Prince Fielder. As we wait for Cameron to come off his suspension I expect Tony Gwynn Jr. to take over in center and get some valuable experience.

   One of the biggest changes during the offseason took place behind the plate. Gone is Damian Miller, who I think was one of the best catchers this organization has seen since Dave Nillsson. No one can argue that Miller was one of better game callers around and had above average defensive skills. But he was getting old and his offensive numbers have been declining. Johnny (soul-patch sportin') Estrada is gone as well. And Good Riddance. This guy sucked. No hustle. Bad arm. Couldn't call a game if it was 5 year old girls tee ball. I can't believ the Brewers were able to get a guy with a pulse in a trade for him. So having gotten rid of these guys we went out and picked up Jason Kendall as the number one catcher and are counting on finding a backup in spring training (so far looks like Munson's the guy). Kendall is well known around the league for being one of the best game callers. While his offense isn't what it used to be, who cares. He may not hit for a super high average but his obp is still pretty good. He'll control the game and it looks like he'll throw out more batters than Ponch did for us last year.

   Along with all these pickups our awesome lineup is back older, wiser, stronger and ready to dominate the NL Central

   I'll post my projected lineup a little later. Peace