MLB Rumors: Nelson Cruz looming destination, Orioles, Padres

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SAN DIEGO, CA – JUNE 16: Nelson Cruz #32 of the San Diego Padres celebrates after hitting a solo home run during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Petco Park on June 16, 2023 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Denis Poroy/Getty Images) /

MLB Rumors: Could the Brewers be a fit for Nelson Cruz?

The San Diego Padres recently designated Nelson Cruz for assignment — and now the team has released the future Hall of Fame designated hitter, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Cruz, 43, is already garnering interest, according to major-league sources. It’s unclear what teams are involved, but one team that could make sense is the Milwaukee Brewers.

To this point, the Brewers have not shown interest in Cruz. But they have a need for a designated hitter — Jesse Winker has struggled in that spot — and Cruz would be a strong leader off the bench and in the clubhouse.

Cruz, of course, is not the same player he once was. He only hit .245/.283/.399 with five home runs and 23 RBI with the Padres. But he’s still a useful player, and someone that teams — including the Brewers — should inquire about adding.

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