A lot of Brewers saw action today in Phoenix, although mainly because the bullpen gave up run after run after run. However, they were all longs unlikely to make the roster, and the "big-league" Brewers didn't fare so bad on the mound. Jeff Suppan gave up 2 ER in 2 innings of work, and Derrick Turnbow and Mitch Stetter each pitched well in one inning of work.Although I've previously said that Jason Kendall won't bat ninth in the lineup, that's exactly what happened today as Ned put the catcher in the 9 spot, and batted the pitcher 8th. If the goal of this is to move Braun and Fielder up in the lineup, and essentially give them "a second lead-off" hitter, than I can see why you'd argue for it. But I think batting the pitcher anywhere but 9th is a case of a manager out-thinking himself, and trying to be "too smart." I don't mind that Ned is tinkering around with this in Spring Training, but I hope he keeps that trick in his pocket all year and doesn't do it during the regular season.
The Brewers had 4 runs today on 8 hits, but it wasn't nearly enough to beat the Padres. Brad Nelson hit a three run home run in the eighth inning, so good for him.
Box Score.
TBC's Player of the Game: Brad Nelson
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