The hot topic of Spring Training to begin the 2018 season is the outfield depth. Everyone wants to talk about how there’s a logjam with the likes of Ryan Braun, Christian Yelich, Lorenzo Cain, Domingo Santana, Keon Broxton and Brett Phillips, all playing outfield. Yet it seems like the real logjam could be at first base with the news that Craig Counsell will not play Braun in right field nor will Yelich meaning Braun’s time is split between left field and first base. Could Eric Thames and Jesus Aguliar be the ones to go before the season begins?

While it’s hard to believe that the Brewers would jettison two first basemen before the season starts, it’s realistic to think that one might be the move to clear space for Braun to play first base. Looking at it from afar, Counsell could be seeing opportunities to limit at-bats for Thames and Braun for different reasons. Thames might have been overexposed last year, and teams knew how to pitch him right away. For Braun, it’s about taking care of his injuries and making sure he doesn’t overextend himself. The same could be said for Thames who had dehydration and cramping issues throughout the year. Counsell may know exactly what’s he doing with this roster even if from the outside we are completely puzzled.

There are some who thinks Aguliar might actually be Jesus, but he isn’t as consistent as you’d like him to be at first base. Aguliar would also play into Braun’s time at first with a left-handed hitter unless there would be a way to give Yelich days off when that was happening. Brewers could still get a decent return for the first basemen who looks in great shape this Spring Training. I’m not saying they’ll get a haul but might be able to at least get a little something back instead of releasing him.

I’d be stunned if all three first basemen are on the roster when the Brewers start their season in San Diego.

Charlie.