Chicago Cubs will learn a lot from rivals’ moves at Winter Meetings

Ryan Braun gets traded by the Milwaukee Brewers

The rumor mill and the former National League MVP are far from strangers. Yet, here he is, still a member of a rebuilding Brewers organization. The organization already took a flyer on former big leaguer Eric Thames, who raked against KBO pitching the last few years.

In a corresponding move, the Brewers designated the 41-home run bat of Chris Carter for assignment last week.

What does this tell us?

Milwaukee is looking to be more budget-conscious as it continues its rebuild. Carter was a lock for at least $8.1 million through arbitration (per MLBTR) for just one season and instead, Thames received a three-year, $16 million contract.

It’s no secret that Braun is one of the more attractive outfield bats available this winter. His .903 OPS in 135 games last year ranked as his best since 2012, when he finished second in MVP voting. Add in a 30-homer season and you quickly understand the intrigue in the slugger.

Unloading his $20 million salary opens al kinds of possibilities for the Brewers’ front office. Adding more young talent to a promising core is a top priority and with rumors involving the San Francisco Giants swirling, it may not be long before Braun leaves Wisconsin for greener pastures.