Counsell talks Braun, Brewers closers as spring workouts begin

The Brewers first workout with pitchers and catchers happened Sunday in Phoenix, bringing with it the optimism of a new season - and continuing changes at a couple of key positions.

Brewers manager Craig Counsell confirmed Sunday that Ryan Braun will move from right field back to left field this season, making room for Domingo Santana to play right. Braun played right field in the 2014 and 2015 season because of Khris Davis's presence in left, but Davis was traded to the Oakland Athletics earlier this offseason.

Counsell also says he'll use spring training games to give both Jeremy Jeffress and Will Smith a chance to earn the role as the team's closer. The Brewers are looking to replace Francisco Rodriguez in the ninth-inning role. Jeffress and Smith have been effective in setup roles the last few seasons.

Position players report later this week to Maryvale Baseball Park in Phoenix. CBS 58 will have live reports from Arizona starting Wednesday.