Brewers Re-Sign Free Agent Lefty Alex Claudio and Claim Tigers' Ronny Rodriguez off Waivers

While everyone was clamoring over the huge news of Stephen Strasburg re-signing with the Nationals, the Brewers managed to reel in an effective southpaw off the open market.

Per Ken Rosenthal, the Brew Crew have signed LHP Alex Claudio to a one-year deal worth $1.75 million.

Free-agent left-hander Álex Claudio’s deal with the #Brewers is one year, $1.75M, source tells The Athletic. Also includes incentives.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 9, 2019

Claudio was with the Brewers last season, appearing in a National League-high 83 games in relief. He logged a 4.06 ERA with 44 strikeouts in 62.0 innings.

Prior to joining the Brewers, Claudio spent the first five seasons of his big-league career with the Rangers. He briefly filled in as Texas' closer in 2017, notching 11 saves and a 2.50 ERA on the season across 82.2 innings of work.

Throughout his career, Claudio, like most southpaws, has been far more effective against left-handed hitters. Up against lefties, he's surrendered a career slash line of .201/.245/.306 whereas right-handers are slashing .307/.357/.445 against him.

LHP Alex Claudio has been re-signed to a 1-year contract. INF Ronny Rodríguez has been claimed off waivers from Detroit. pic.twitter.com/hebHc5ceIX
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) December 9, 2019

In a separate transaction, the Brewers also claimed former Tiger Ronny Rodriguez off waivers.

The Brew Crew are looking to remain competitive in 2020, and while these two signings aren't major needle movers, they're solid depth pickups that can help this team remain in competition.