Kieschnick takes a two-way road. (Baseball).(baseball player Brooks Kieschnick)

Early in spring training, the Brewers' Wes Helms steps into the cage for batting practice, glances out toward the mound and does a double take. Staring back at him is Brooks Kieschnick, whom Helms recalls from the minor leagues as a hitter, not a pitcher.

Surprise! Kieschnick, 30, is trying out for the Brewers as a two-way player. If he makes the club, it will be as a lefthanded-hitting reserve and righthanded reliever, and not necessarily in that order.

The sad-sack Brewers rarely think outside the box, but new general manager Doug Melvin and manager Ned Yost may be on to something. Kieschnick's versatility as a pitcher, first baseman and outfielder could create a host of strategic options. It also could open a roster spot for one of the Brewers' two Rule 5 draft picks.

"In our situation, it's something we have to look at," Melvin says. "We have to utilize players the best way we can."

In an era when many teams carry 12 pitchers on their 25-man rosters, even contenders are exploring two-way options. The Braves plan to use Mike Hampton, perhaps the game's best-hitting starting pitcher, as a frequent pinch hitter. They also are keeping their options open with first base prospect Adam LaRoche, a talented left-handed pitcher (and the son of former major league pitcher Dave LaRoche).

Babe Ruth contributed as both a pitcher and hitter early in his career, but players rarely have filled both roles simultaneously. Hampton, for example, is a pitcher first, starting every fifth day and serving as a possible pinch hitter the other four.

Kieschnick's role would be less defined. Yost could summon him as a reliever in the middle innings without the concern of needing to hit for the pitcher. Yost also could use Kieschnick to hit for the pitcher and give the Brewers the equivalent of a temporary DH.