Last Wednesday, after enduring three pretty disappointing seasons, Bill Hall was designated for assignment by the Milwaukee Brewers. This means they had 10 days to trade him before having to decide whether or not to cut him or send him to the minors. A week later, the Brewers found their suitor. Milwaukee traded Hall and cash considerations to the Mariners for Ruben Flores, a minor-league relief pitcher. Hall has experience almost everywhere on the diamond, but he'll likely get a chance to immediately contribute at third base. The Mariners have been using Jack Hannahan at the hot corner as the cupless Adrian Beltre recovers from a testicle injury.
Of course, Mariners general manager Jack Zduriencik didn't offer any initial plans with Hall, other than giving a polished, positive statement.
"We value Bill as a versatile player who can play the outfield and three infield positions," said Zduriencik. "Billy has been a starting shortstop, third baseman and center fielder in his career. He has been a very solid Major League player who brings you experience and versatility. We look forward to Billy's contributions as he starts a new page in his career."
Hall was hitting a paltry .201 with 72 strikeouts in 214 at-bats for the Brewers this season. The .606 OPS was easily the worst of his career. In 2006, Hall hit 35 home runs and had an .899 OPS. He's gradually regressed since then and the Brewers finally just gave up on him. Still, Hall is only 29, so there should be something left in the tank. Perhaps a change of scenery will rescue his career. A Milwaukee-to-Seattle shift seemed to work wonders for Russell Branyan (though it's more likely he is just flourishing with an everyday job).
The 25-year-old Flores doesn't appear ready to help the Brewers' bullpen just yet. He was having a great season, saving 18 games with a 2.30 ERA, but that was only in Single-A. He has struggled since moving up a level there.
