Free-agent infielder Craig Counsell has drawn steady interest from the Brewers, his previous team, and Mariners, whose new general manager, Jack Zduriencik, is a former Brewers executive.
But a third team -- the Cardinals -- has entered the mix, major-league sources say, apparently in reaction to the surprising news that third baseman Troy Glaus will miss as much as the first five weeks of the season after undergoing surgery to repair a torn muscle near his right shoulder.
Counsell, 38, could serve as a stopgap at third base until Glaus recovers, then assume a utility role. But the Brewers probably are his first choice -- Counsell, who is married with three children, grew up and still lives in Whitefish Bay, Wis.
The Brewers made Counsell a free agent when they declined his $3.4 million club option at the start of the off-season. Brewers general manager Doug Melvin told reporters Thursday that he expected a decision from Counsell as early as Friday.
Cardinals GM John Mozeliak told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that he might explore "external options" due to Glaus' injury. A veteran such as Counsell, however, might be a tight fit after Glaus returns.
The Cardinals acquired Khalil Greene from the Padres to be their everyday shortstop, and have been unable to trade second baseman Adam Kennedy, who will earn $4 million this season. The team's desire to try outfielder Skip Schumaker at second in spring training is the latest indication of its dissatisfaction with Kennedy.
Counsell appeared in 110 games for the Brewers last season, batting .226 with a .355 on-base percentage, one home run and 14 RBIs. He is a .255 career hitter.
