The Milwaukee Brewers could turn to an internal option to fill the void left by Jake Bauers rather than pursue an expensive replacement in free agency, as they weigh their options following his departure.
According to The Athletic’s Andy McCullough, Milwaukee is not necessarily planning to acquire another first baseman following Bauers’ reported four-year, $58 million agreement with the Boston Red Sox. The Brewers are considering retaining Andrew Vaughn, while also evaluating their young prospects as potential contributors. McCullough noted that the organization has three first-base prospects who could eventually help address the position.
Vaughn appears to be the most immediate solution. The 28-year-old was initially expected to handle first base before a hand injury sidelined him early in the season. Bauers eventually established himself as a regular starter, forcing Milwaukee to find other ways to keep Vaughn involved in the lineup.
Despite his limited opportunities, Vaughn delivered encouraging numbers. He recorded a .306/.390/.444 slash line with six home runs across 331 plate appearances. Since joining Milwaukee, he has also produced a .849 OPS and 15 home runs in 168 games. With a full season of regular playing time, he could provide considerable power at first base.
The Brewers also have promising alternatives in their farm system. Andrew Fischer, their No. 5 prospect, hit 48 home runs across Class A and Double-A last season. Blake Burke offers another left-handed option after hitting 34 minor-league home runs, while Luke Adams remains an intriguing prospect despite injury setbacks.
Although losing Bauers leaves a significant gap, Milwaukee has several internal candidates to consider. Rather than rushing into another major signing, the Brewers could give their existing talent such as Andrew Vaughn an opportunity to step up.