After acquring highly-tauted reliever Scott Linebrink Wednesday, the Brewers and their respective fans were just waiting to find out how their newest addition would fit into the bullpen. He seems just fine. Linebrink made his first apperance as a Brewer against the Cardinals last night, going an inning, consisting of a strikeout, a walk, and a groundball, in which outfielder Skip Schumaker was doubled up to end it. Linebrink’s presence should take some pressure off Derrick Turnbow, Matt Wise, and Francisco Cordero’s shoulders, and solidify the Brewers’ pen for a stretch run. Although I didn’t like the fact Doug [Melvin] had to give up Will Inman, the best farm-prospect the Crew had left, I think the Brewers’ will win this trade bigtime, assuming management can resign Scott to a long-term deal this upcoming offseason. Linebrink current numbers (3-3, 3.80 ERA) shouldn’t dictate his affectiveness, as he has just gone through a rough month with the Padres. Hopefully the change of scenery, like Francisco Cordero’s, can get Linebrink back on track.

The Brewers made another move late Friday, acquiring reliever Seth McClung from the Devil Rays for pitcher Grant Balfour. Balfour, who coined the nickname “Ball Four” due to his inability to throw strikes, had three consecutive terrible outings, forcing his departure. McClung, 26, will likely report to AAA-Nashville to fill the void left by Balfour. McClung has the versatility to either start or pitch out of the pen, making him a possible late season addition to the picthing staff.