Peterson expands his versatility in camp
PHOENIX – In a spring training camp overflowing with multi-position types, the Milwaukee Brewers haven't been shy about asking some players to expand their horizons even more.
That's why you've seen Jace Peterson in center field – a position he hadn't played previously in 508 major-league games – during exhibition games.
“I played center field in Triple-A; I played some in spring training (with other teams),” said Peterson, a non-roster invitee to the Brewers' camp. “But this is the most extended look I've had at it. It's been fun. I've enjoyed learning out there and going out and playing there.”
Peterson, 29, who has seen action in the majors with San Diego, Atlanta, the New York Yankees and Baltimore, said there was some talk of playing some center field when he signed in mid-December. But that became more of a reality after the Brewers later signed multiposition infielders Eric Sogard, Jedd Gyorko and Brock Holt, who also plays the corner outfield.
“It has been important (to show versatility),” said Peterson, the 58th player taken in the 2010 draft by the Padres out of McNeese State University. “This is my 10th year in pro ball. I came up as a shortstop; that's all I played every day. When I got called up to the big leagues (in 2014), I played third base.
“I got traded to Atlanta and played second base. In '16, I played second base, then in '17 and '18, I kind of transformed into a utility player. Now, I'm playing everywhere and enjoying it. I'm trying to better my craft everywhere I play. It's been fun.
“For me, it's just another chance to go out there and show I can play the position. I'm kind of enjoying it and looking forward to continuing to play out there.”
Other than staring up into the glare of the Arizona sun, Peterson was asked what is the toughest part about playing center field.
“The hardest part of it is keeping your legs fresh every day to bounce around to different positions, different angles, different reads,” he said. “That's probably the toughest part about it. Fortunately, there's a lot of guys out here that do it. We can work with each other and continue to get it in.
“(You soak in) a little bit of hot tub, little bit of cold tub. Then, when you get an off day, you can go in there and have a spa day. So, that's always good.”
While learning to play a new position,
Peterson has managed to find time to work on his swing with hitting coach Andy Haines and assistant Jacob Cruz. And he has put those tune-ups into practice in games, batting .368 in Cactus League action with a .400 on-base percentage and .874 OPS.
As for what he has focused on in the batting cage, Peterson said, “Just staying on my back side a little better. Continuing to let the ball get to me. Then, when the ball is in the (hitting) zone, just striking it forcefully. So, just staying back and being aggressive to the ball.
“I feel good. It's spring training. For me, last year was a good year (.313 batting average in 90 games at Class AAA Norfolk). So, I'm trying to build off that, continue to get my work in and be ready for the season.”
With so much experience and versatility in the Brewers' camp, Peterson is at best a long shot to make the opening day roster. But manager Craig Counsell likes what he has seen thus far and figures there will come a time when Peterson's skill set will come in handy.
“Jace is interesting because we've challenged him a little bit. Center field is brand new to him,” Counsell said. “I think he can do a lot. He's a left-handed hitter; he's really tough. A tough, smart baseball player. He brings a lot to the table. I think there's more in there still, even though he's been around for a while.
“He's a good player. I would anticipate seeing him at some point in the year, if not at the beginning. You start talking about center field and infield, that's a lot to offer. And left-handed. There's a lot of boxes he checks as far as getting into an injury situation or being a little short. He answers a lot of things for you.”