Randomly this winter, we will select a MLB team and muse about their offseason happenings. Today, it’s the Milwaukee Brewers, who led the NL Central for most of the year before succumbing to the Cubs late.

They were the sexy preseason pick last year to reach the postseason, but because the bullpen hit the wall in the second half and Ned Yost did his best Grady Little impression down the stretch, the Cubs were able to overtake the Brewers and play meaningful October baseball. The offense was/is tremendous, as five players topped 20 homers, led by Prince’s 50. They led MLB in homers. But were these just freak years by JJ Hardy and Corey Hart, like Bill Hall in 2006 (35 HR and 85 RBI in 2006; 14-63 in 2007)?

The pitching staff is loaded with ifs as well - if Ben Sheets is healthy, the Brewers have a great No. 1. If Eric Gagme (no misspelling!) can regain his 2004 form, the bullpen will be better. Ditto for Derrick Turnbow (24 BB and 1.74 ERA in 2005; 46 BB and 4.63 in 2007). (Either way, one of those two will need to fill the closer spot, which became open when Francisco Cordero chased money and went to NL Central darkhorse Cincinnati.) After half a season of Mr. Gallardo (17 starts, 9-5), can we expect double the wins next year? Will they get Scott Rolen? It appears not, sadly. Regardless, it looks like Roger Dorn Ryan Braun will be moving to the outfield.

Right now … too many ifs to overtake the Cubs. That, of course, is subject to change between now and when pitchers and catchers report.

Photo: Mark Goldman/Icon SMI

Brewers talk to Cards about Rolen (Brewers Blog)