Rickie Weeks for Brian Roberts.

It never materialized.

Maybe it wasn't on the radar.

Maybe it was a fantasy league creation.

But, in retrospect, it might have made a difference for the leadoff-challenged Brew Crew.

In early June, a credible baseball insider, Ken Rosenthal wrote, "Here's a deal that makes sense: Brian Roberts for Rickie Weeks. The Brewers, who recently had two scouts watching the Orioles, are interested in Roberts, but it remains to be seen whether they are ready to give up on Weeks.''

The rumor was quickly shot down by Milwaukee general manager Doug Melvin.

It looks better today, doesn't it? Especially in light of more broken promises from Weeks, who has been more adept at teasing than delivering on his potential.

Roberts batted .296, Weeks batted .234 (in 136 fewer at-bats).

Roberts had an OBP of .378, Weeks had an OBP of .342.

Roberts had a SLG PCT of .450, Weeks had a SLG PCT of .398.

Roberts had 40 stolen bases, Weeks had 19 stolen bases.

Roberts had 51 doubles and 8 triples, Weeks had 22 doubles and 7 triples.

Roberts had 57 RBI, Weeks had 46 RBI.

Roberts had a clue defensively. Weeks was clueless.

Roberts is five years older. Weeks' act is growing old.

Roberts, a switch-hitter, would have addressed the need for a leadoff hitter in Milwaukee.

Weeks was a round peg in the square hole at the top of the order. And still is.

Maybe you can rationalize why Melvin was unwilling to give up on Weeks in June.

But will the Brewers remain as committed to Weeks during the off-season?

Not that Roberts would be the target in a deal.

But maybe they could get a starting pitcher in return.

If nothing else, it should be explored.

Better a Weeks late than never.