Brewers' Will Smith: Activation coming up

Smith (knee) is expected to be activated from the DL during the upcoming four-game series with the Phillies that begins Thursday, Todd Rosiak of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports.

Analysis:

Smith recently moved his rehab to Double-A Biloxi, where he struck out one batter in a clean inning, throwing 12 of 16 total pitches for strikes. He's now made three rehab appearances, allowing one hit and no walks with five strikeouts over four innings. Smith will soon return to the Milwaukee bullpen, though it appears Jeremy Jeffress will retain the closer's role for now. If Smith can string together a few quality appearances, he could find himself as a trade chip for the rebuilding Brewers.