Can Mat Gamel be the answer at first?

[madtowndrunkard]

Does anyone really believe Gamel is the answer at 1st base?

 

I've read plenty of posts on this site from people who think Gamel could be a good option at 1st basemen next season. I'm a little puzzled by this, what has he ever shown that would give you any impression that he could be a good option to play full time at the major league level?

 

He's had some nice minor league numbers. But every chance he's got at the big leagues he's been unimpressive. I'm all ears. If there is something I'm missing on Gamel I'd love to hear it. People saying he could be a late bloomer like Freese? I don't get it, and I hope Melvin isn't thinking the same thing.

[GamelToe]

If we can platoon him, I think he'd be a good option. But he's pretty dreadful against lefties, and who knows if they want to keep an extra righty on the bench for that (although a power hitter PH is long overdue on this team)

[sveumrules]

I think he'd put up a triple slash similar to Gaby Sanchez. Throw in averagish defense at minimum wage and there is value there and far more upside than any FA would offer.

[PrinceEatMeat]

I would like to see a Gamel/Derrek Lee platoon at 1st.

[Oldcity]

Gamel's never had a real shot in the big leagues. 194 plate appearances spread over 4 years is meaningless. He's been good to great all throughout the minors. Not guaranteeing he'll be good, but there's more evidence implying he will that there is implying he won't.

[Raw Biz]

This has been answered time and again. Gamel has not gotten a chance to prove himself yet. Less than 200 PAs over basically 3 years, with the majority coming when he was 23. That is not a legitimate chance to show what he can do. His minor league numbers were great and he has a good glove. Combine his cheap contract with his potential and he's the best option the Brewers have (comparing cost).

[bucksman4]

I think he'd put up a triple slash similar to Gaby Sanchez. Throw in averagish defense at minimum wage and there is value there and far more upside than any FA would offer.

I agree with your opinions. I could definitely see a line similar to Sanchez, given the plate appearances are similar. Problem is, the Brewers have never shown a willingness to let him get consistent enough ABs to know how he will truly fare at the big league level.

[brewtank34]

Isn't this topic being discussed in length in the http://forum.brewerfan.net/viewtopic.php?t=26010/2012-First-Baseman???

[Team Canada]

Agreed.