One reason each MLB team can win the World Series in 2017

Nov 4, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; (from left to right) Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo and center fielder Dexter Fowler and third baseman Kris Bryant and right fielder Jason Heyward celebrate during their World Series parade outside of Wrigley Field on Addison Street. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 29, 2016; Milwaukee, WS, USA; Eric Thames is introduced during a press conference in Milwaukee. Mandatory Credit: Rick Wood/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via USA TODAY NETWORK /

Milwaukee Brewers: Eric Thames is the real deal

The Brewers made one of the most intriguing moves of the offseason, giving $16 million to Eric Thames. After a moderately successful career in the big leagues, Thames went over to Korea and exploded. The big first baseman has played the last four years in the KBO, and compiled a .347/.448/.714 line with 126 home runs and 384 RBIs.

Thames obviously has a ton of raw power. The Korean stats have to be taken with a grain of salt, but are still impressive. Still only 30 years old, he has the potential to come back to the states and have a solid career for a few years.

Over the past few years, hitters coming over from Korea have found success in MLB. Their power numbers have taken a hit, but the batting average has stayed moderately level. Thames should see a drop in both, as the other KBO exports profile more as contact hitters than he does. Still, the Brewers have a very cheap source of power on their hands with their new first baseman.

Milwaukee is on the verge of coming out of their rebuild, and have several young pitchers to be excited about. Thames should be a lock for 30 home runs, and along with Ryan Braun, that could be enough to push the Brewers back into contention.

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