Luke Hochevar

[reillymcshane]

If Hochevar would last until the Brewers' pick, any chance the team would consider him? Obviously they'd have to be willing to pay him ($3-4 million bonus). But if he drops, I assume he would be the top guy on the board.

 

However, by paying the extra $1-2 million, you get a top 5-7 talent.

 

Character and signability are, without question, issues with Hochevar. I mean, how wants to mess with a Boros client? But if you're looking for a guy who could within a couple years be in your rotation - do you risk it? And with the quick rise to the majors many of the top college pitchers have had in the past few years (Verlander, Craig Hansen, Weaver just called up after less than a year in the minors, it looks like Pelfrey will be up with the Mets in less than a year, Sowers looks ready to show up, etc.), might the Crew be influenced into taking a little more of a risk in getting a guy they think will fast track (and be dominant)?

 

Or does being a Boros client pretty much negate any chance this will ever happen?

 

Does anyone have a feel for what the Brewers think of Hochevar?

 

Just kind of curious. Thanks.

[colbyjack]

Every year we ponder whether or not the Brewers would get involved with a tough sign with their first round pick. Based on their history, they tend to stick with guys they can sign for slot value (that sign relatively quickly), so I don't think the Brewers taking Hochevar (or Scherzer) is likely.

 

Last year I know people thought it might be possible since they didn't have a 2nd round pick, and therefore in theory they could "roll" that extra money into their first-rounder. Hochevar and Pelfrey were both there for the taking, even if the Brewers seemed intent on taking a 3B. This year the Brewers 16th pick will likely cost $1.6 million, and I don't think they will have an extra $800,000 to play with just because they're picking 16th instead of 5th.

 

Ideally it would be very exciting for the reasons you listed.