Earlier this morning, the Milwaukee Brewers got some exciting news when it was announced that the club's No. 4 prospect Luis Lara was getting the call up to make his MLB debut.
Just a few hours later, the team officially announced the unfortunate and expected news that likely motivated the promotion. Infielder David Hamilton has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a strained left hamstring.
In a corresponding move, they have selected 28-year-old utilityman Greg Jones from Triple-A and transferred outfielder Brandon Lockridge (knee) to the 60-day IL.
Hamilton left Monday night's game against the St. Louis Cardinals with what was originally called hamstring tightness. Knowing they had the upcoming double-header to begin a stretch of six games in five days running into the All-Star Break, manager Pat Murphy hinted at the fact that Hamilton's injury would likely result in some roster moves regardless of its extent.
When reports of Lara's promotion emerged on Tuesday, it appeared to be the clear swap. However, Adam McCalvy of MLB.com indicated that the Brewers were waiting on the results of Hamilton's early-morning MRI before making a decision, and the corresponding move for Lara ended up being outfielder Blake Perkins being optioned to Triple-A.
But with more moves likely to be needed before the break, Hamilton was unable to avoid an IL stint. The speedy infielder has been a solid addition this year, slashing .240/.317/.333 in 74 games with a steady glove at both third base and shortstop. While the extent of his injury remains to be seen, Hamilton will get some built-in rest with the four scheduled days off next week before the Brewers embark on a nine-game homestand.
