What Does 2011 Hold For Mat Gamel?

As of yesterday most of the Brewers had arrived in Arizona (position players are not required to arrive until today). Mat Gamel, historically not known for his punctuality, let alone arriving early, reported earlier last week. Perhaps the fact that he showed up early this year means he's matured a bit over the last couple of years. In 2008 he became known for showing up late to workouts, leading some of the veterans in the clubhouse to move his belongings outside to teach him a lesson. He didn't make the same mistake in 2009, a year shortened by injuries, but he seemed less than willing to explore different positions given the fact that 3B is blocked at the Major League level by Casey McGehee.

It seems Gamel again has a chance to make the team out of Spring Training this year. He earned a spot in 2008 but struggled in a bench role and was moved back to AAA. Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said last week that Gamel will see time at 3B, 1B, and the corner outfield spots in Spring Training. "He's going to bounce around. The guy can hit. If he makes us believe he can play a lot of positions, it helps him make the team. If I were in his shoes, I'd be open to anything." One would think that Gamel would be open to anything that will get him a spot on the Brewers' roster. Hopefully 2011 marks the year he decides that it's in his best interest to put the team first and accept whatever role is given to him. Roenicke noted, however, that another factor that must again be taken into consideration is whether Gamel might be better served seeing everyday action at AAA Nashville.