Last call

• Ash expressed optimism about striking deals to extend the Brewers' player development contracts with Triple-A Nashville and Double-A Huntsville before those agreements expire this fall. Both franchises are moving into new ballparks next year, with the Double-A franchise moving to Biloxi, Miss.

Ash said that PDC talks with those clubs, plus Class A Advanced Brevard County and rookie-level Helena, will probable gain steam after the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline.

"In both situations," Ash said, referring specifically to Nashville and Huntsville/Biloxi, "there's been good dialogue. There were some requests, and we've met all of them and both teams are playing well."

Ash was in Nashville last week and met with the Sounds' new ownership. He visited the construction site of the team's future home.