MILWAUKEE -- The Brewers have requested waivers on infielder Juan Francisco after the left-handed slugger lost out on their first-base job.
The team announced the move Monday for the purpose of giving Francisco his unconditional release. Francisco hit .346 with three homers and six RBIs this spring, but ultimately lost out to Lyle Overbay and Mark Reynolds with Milwaukee giving more consideration to defense.
Overbay and Reynolds signed minor league deals this offseason after playing last season with the Yankees. They will be added to the Brewers' opening-day roster.
The left-handed Overbay is the better defensive first baseman. Reynolds is a right-handed home-run hitter with a penchant for strikeouts. He can also back up Aramis Ramirez at third base.
Francisco was acquired at midseason last year from Atlanta.
