In the long run, the Brewers’ acquisition of veteran second baseman Ray Durham from San Francisco may actually benefit Rickie Weeks. While not completely giving up on Weeks, the Brewers have found a way to rely on him less and, possibly, light a fire under him.

Weeks has never been challenged for playing time, so Durham’s arrival puts his back against the wall. Manager Ned Yost told the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that the switch-hitting Durham will fill in for Weeks “a couple of days a week, maybe,” but indicated that Durham was in Milwaukee to provide a veteran bat off the bench, not take Weeks’ job. Read more »

A couple of National League contenders may be without their bullpen anchors, with Chicago’s Kerry Wood (blister) expected to land on the disabled list, according to the Chicago Tribune, and New York’s Billy Wagner scheduled to undergo an MRI on his throwing shoulder, according to the Mets’ official site.

The Tribune reported that Wood, who last pitched on July 11, will be placed on the DL retroactive to July 12. If his blister fully heals, Wood can be back on the mound for Chicago’s Sunday home finale against the Marlins. In the meantime, the Cubs have announced that Carlos Marmol will fill in as the team’s closer. Read more »