The Milwaukee Brewers are seriously considering making a play for free agent outfielder Josh Hamilton, reports Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com:
The Milwaukee Brewers are seriously considering a run at superstar free-agent outfielder Josh Hamilton, according to people familiar with their thinking.
The Brewers believe Milwaukee offers Hamilton a "viable market," according to Heyman. He also notes that the presence of hitting coach Johnny Narron, who developed a relationship with Hamilton during his time with the Cincinnati Reds and Texas Rangers, can only help their chances of inking the outfielder.
Heyman believes that Milwaukee could find it hard to compete financially if one of the larger markets becomes involved in the Hamilton sweepstakes. However, at this point the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers aren’t expected to be players.
There is little question regarding Hamilton’s level of talent, which is why many expect him to command a deal in the $20 million per year range. However, his injury history and off-the-field issues have the length of his potential contract in question.