Before spring training games began, Milwaukee Brewers manager Craig Counsell said he wasn't going to "rule anyone out" of the leadoff spot in his lineup.
He wasn't kidding.
Counsell penciled in Domingo Santana at the top of the order for Tuesday's exhibition against the Chicago White Sox. Santana has never batted leadoff in his major-league career, primarily batting fifth (15 times) or sixth (21) with one start as high as second in the order (he also has six starts batting seventh and eighth).
"It's really just leading off with a dangerous hitter who certainly early in his career has shown plate discipline but power is obviously a part of his game, too," said Counsell, who reiterated he is looking at every option.
In Milwaukee's previous six major-league exhibitions, Jonathan Villar has led off three times and Keon Broxton, Ramon Flores and Eric Young Jr. the others.
"I feel comfortable (leading off)," Villar said.
Corner man: Counsell said he sees Rymer Liriano as a corner outfielder, much like Santana. When asked if Liriano compared to former major leaguer Wily Mo Pena, Counsell saw why they'd be compared but said Liriano is more athletic and more of a hitter, compared to the raw power of Pena.
Not playing center could hurt Liriano's cause, with Santana and Ryan Braun set to start in right and left field. Liriano is out of minor-league options. "He's a player you need to make a decision on," Counsell said.
Good news: An MRI on second baseman Scooter Gennett showed mild shoulder tendinitis, according to Counsell. "The plan is to start testing it, but start from the beginning and rev him up," Counsell said.
Mr. Optimism: Villar is happy in his new home and he knows several of his new teammates, several of them who, like Villar, were in the Houston Astros organization. The Brewers shortstop likes the progress he's seen early in spring training.
"I feel good because I look at the team that it's possible that we go to the playoffs," Villar said.
