They'll have to raise payroll then, because they don't have any payroll of significance available. Possible, especially since they'll have playoff revenue in some quantity, but far from a guarantee. And even then, you're talking about replacing someone of Fielder's quality just to get back to square one. How do we explain the fact that they've been trying to extend Fielder (or at least have publicly stated as much)? The notion that Fielder's money is already spent surely doesn't jive with that part. Keep in mind, Fielder is a Boras client, and even if the Brewers are able to somewhat expand payroll, he will hit the open market, and if teams like the Cubs, Yankees, Red Sox, and Angels show interest, they'll ultimately price the Brewers out, especially considering the marketability in one of those cities. The Brewers only real shot it if the big market teams all stay out of the bidding. the Yankees, Red Sox and Angels don't need a 1B