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Bullpen still needs an arm

Besides the signing of Matt Garza, the Milwaukee Brewers have remained very quiet this offseason only signing a few veterans to minor-league deals. Although they have made several moves, they still need to sign a veteran relief pitcher to solidify their bullpen, and right-hander Luis Ayala is the answer.

Ayala, 36, is a veteran arm that has been relatively successful in his nine-year major league career coming out of the bullpen as a middle reliever. He has especially found success within the last three seasons.

From 2011-13, Ayala had only a 2.58 ERA in 164 innings, while inducing grounders at a 51.4 percent rate, and limiting homeruns to less than one per nine innings.

With the Atlanta Braves a year ago he had one of his best seasons going 1-1 with a 2.90 ERA in 37 games. He also made two appearances in the beginning of the season with the Baltimore Orioles.

For his career he has pitched for eight major league teams logging a 3.34 ERA and 367 strikeouts in 554.1 innings.

Another benefit Ayala brings to the table is his affordability. Last season he made only $1 million, and for the Brewers that would be a key factor in signing him because that will be the top of the line anyone should expect this aging veteran to receive.

Ayala has a track record of success at the major league level, and he would be an excellent fit to solidify the Brewers bullpen next season on an affordable, short-term deal.

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