Brewers' Corey Knebel: Throwing well this spring

Knebel has thrown the ball well this spring, posting an 11:1 K:BB over six innings and allowing just two earned runs, and has caught the attention of manager Craig Counsell, who noted Wednesday that Knebel's "innings have been dominant, almost," according to MLB.com's Adam McCalvy.

Analysis:

Knebel was tentatively on track to open the year as the Brewers' closer early in the offseason, but the team's signing of Neftali Feliz means he will not begin the new campaign in that role. Still, his impressive spring has likely earned him a prominent spot in the pecking order behind Feliz, and he may even slot in as the team's setup man. While Knebel will not be closing games out of the gate, he is likely the next best option for Brewers' saves should Feliz cede the ninth-inning duties for any reason.