MILWAUKEE (SPECTRUM NEWS) — Opening day for the Milwaukee Brewers is next Friday night in Chicago and infielder Eric Sogard has returned to the team. 

Sogard and the Brewers just seem like a good fit for each other; He had a terrific 2017 in Milwaukee.

After a down year in 2018, Sogard split last season with Toronto and Tampa Bay. Now at the age of 34, he's with the brewers again, one of several infielders they have that can play multiple positions.

"I know [manager] Counsell likes the versatility and we have a lot of guys that can be very versatile, so I think he'll definitely use that to his advantage. Still kind of take that National League mindset, even though we will have the DH where we can still move guys, still pinch hit guys. So I think myself and the rest of the guys are definitely prepared for being able to move around," said Sogard.

Brewers President of Baseball Operations David Stearns loves the versatility that Sogard brings.

“I think Sogie brings a number of things,” Stearns said. “First and foremost, he brings tremendous versatility. He can play second, third and short. He's comfortable out in left field as well. I don't think we need him out there, but if we were, he can certainly do just fine out there. He is also coming off a really exceptional offensive year last year.”

Sogard's world revolves around his wife and five kids. He says he never thought about playing this season and made the most of the bonus family time during baseball's shutdown.

"I enjoy being around them, and obviously they know I can't do as much as normal all the time when the season starts. I can't go as crazy but you know I just love being around them and watching them play and just…obviously I'm not around as much during the season so anytime I am able to get around and just be with them it's a lot of fun.”

Sogard says health and safety are number one because that's what is going to keep the season going.

Meanwhile, manager Craig Counsell announced on Friday that Brandon Woodruff will be the Brewers' opening day starter next Friday night in Chicago against the rival Cubs.