Obviously, it's easy to find and criticize the negative qualities of a Major League Baseball player, especially a guy on your beloved squad. But as you take a look around at the 2008 version of the Milwaukee Brewers, there is a lot to like...not only from a talent standpoint, but in their personalities. Most of the Brew Crew big leaguers bring something special to the table and should be appreciated.
Rickie Weeks - No matter what the situation, he goes all out, often seeking contact when he gets the chance to muscle up. To him max effort means, "me standing, you on the ground. Just ask Geovany Soto if Rickie enjoys taking out catchers. Not to mention, when Rickie whistles a ball to the gap, the sound off his bat is unlike any other player on the team (maybe in the Majors).
Ryan Braun - The 2007 NL Rookie of the Year does a nice job toeing that line between extremely positive in his abilities and outright, Deion Sanders-type cockiness. But this guy would do anything to win a game. He carries the ultimate assurance in himself that most men need to succeed. A recent quote perfectly depicts his demeanor, "I don't want to be good. A lot of players are good. I want to be great." Who doesn't want that from their ballplayers?
Prince Fielder - Our barrel-chested vegetarian ruffled some feathers after complaining about the "minor" raise he received (sign me up for a $255,000 raise and you'll get no complaints). That usually doesn't go over too well with the hard-working Milwaukee fan. But he plays with a passion and anger that most guys couldn't handle for more than a day. He does his "job" the right way.
Corey Hart - His 6'6'' frame still deceives people, but Corey is the athlete that puts up numbers and does all of the little things well, especially on the bases. He's a smart, athletic player who enjoys playing in the shadows of his higher-profile teammates. To him, playing the game hard, well and smart give him satisfaction...he doesn't need to tell everyone how good he is. Head down, do your job.
J.J. Hardy - The ladies' man every guys wants to be, even though his frame convinces you he's a light-hitting high school prospect. J.J. is a solid contributor you can rely on and he looks the role of the kid who doesn't look like he'll have an impact, but he makes it...a dream many of us can relate to. Plus, good looks can get you out of a slump thanks to a night with a lady friend.
Jason Kendall - The old-school ballplayer that built this game decades ago, Jason brings the hard-nosed, get dirty type of player you need on a championship team. He's smart and does whatever it takes to win. It's impossible to give 100% focus and effort 162 games a year, but he comes close. The gritty veteran is a manager's player - need a bunt, done. Need a hit by pitch, easy. Jason reminds us that every day could be your last...give everything.
Brian Shouse - Another guy that goes about his business, Shousie looks like your neighbor who always has a smile on his face. He brings the appreciation and joy that we think a ballplayer should display...not worried about anything but getting his man. He's the under-appreciated worker that no one gives credit too but is a vital part of the group. I'm sure we've all played that role in our job.
Ben Sheets - Injuries aside, Sheeter is a lights out ace with nasty stuff and focus on the hill. Off the field, he's kind of like your "crazy uncle Joe," but in a good way. He's a little off-beat, says strange things, constantly bites his nails and has a way to make you laugh. What's not to like about a top tier athlete acting goofy and not taking himself too seriously? Really, though, if you've talked with Ben, he's a little out there.
Eric Gagne - Another odd egg, Milwaukee's "Stange Brew" looks nothing like a Major League Baseball player with his enormous pants, bushy hair, ungroomed beard and comical goggles saying, "What?" But he's a fierce competitor that walks to the beat of his own drum. Gagne is the guy no one expects anything from, then he shoves it down their throats and doesn't say a word.
