Giants reportedly exploring Braun deal with Crew
The Giants have engaged in "preliminary talks" with the Brewers about a trade
for outfielder Ryan Braun, according to USA Today.
No deal is thought to be imminent.Brewers general manager David Stearns addres
sed rumors Sunday on MLB Network Radio saying, "There's no need for us to move
… an elite-level player." Stearns added he would keep Braun and catcher Jona
than Lucroy, another of Milwaukee's top trade chips, apprised on talks.
The Giants are looking for outfield help after Hunter Pence underwent surgery
on a torn right hamstring earlier this month. He is expected to be sidelined f
or eight weeks. Jarrett Parker and Mac Williamson have filled in for Pence sin
ce his absence.
Braun would be more than a temporary solution. The 30-year-old outfielder, who
was suspended 65 games in 2013 for performance-enchaining drugs, is owed more
than $100 million through 2020, with a $15 million mutual option or a $4 mill
ion buyout in '21.
Braun has dealt with injuries the past couple of years, but he is playing at a
n All-Star level this season, entering Monday hitting .316 with 11 home runs a
nd 36 RBIs. He has experience in right and left field.
Braun has a partial no-trade clause, but the Giants are among the list of team
s the Southern California native cannot block a deal to, according to Fox Spor
ts.com.
Cash Curth is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter at @cashkruth. Thi
s story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.