Carlos

Villanueva

Maybe a strong enough performance to put him back in the rotation right away. Villanueva has a 1.98 ERA in 13 2/3 innings as a major leaguer.

Manager Ned Yost indicated that he and general manager Doug Melvin would be ready to announce a decision Monday. Rick Helling, who is ready to come off the DL, could also get the nod.

Villanueva, who pitched a scoreless inning for the Brewers last month, will pitch in middle relief for now. He could be a candidate to step into the rotation until Rick Helling gets back, but it’s at least as likely that the Brewers will choose Jeremi Gonzalez.

Villanueva is being picked over Jeremi Gonzalez. It might be his only start before Rick Helling comes off the DL.

He allowed four hits, walked two and struck out five. The Brewers were hoping to get Rick Helling back next time through, but Villanueva likely earned himself another start with his performance today. He’ll face the Tigers next week if he does remain in the rotation. Villanueva still isn’t a very good pickup in NL-only leagues.

The move makes room for Jeremi Gonzalez on the roster. Villanueva made just one appearance for the Brewers, striking out two in a scoreless inning on Monday. He’ll return to the rotation at Huntsville.

Villanueva was recalled only because Chris Mabeus was ineligible to join the Brewers. The 22-year-old will probably head back to Double-A later this week. In the meantime, he’ll be available as a middle reliever.

Helling has been horrible since being activated from the disabled list and will be much better in a mop-up role. Villanueva is expected to start on Friday.

Dana Eveland is going to take the roster spot. Villanueva will make a start in the minors over the All-Star break and then perhaps rejoin the Brewers, though even if he does get his rotation spot back, it could be a short-term assignment with Ben Sheets and Tomo Ohka on the way back.

While his stuff is underwhelming, Villanueva has done nothing but get outs all season long. He might get a chance to make starts for the Brewers this month after going 7-1 with a 2.71 ERA for Nashville.