Spring training starts in just over six weeks. The annual winter tour of the Brewers is only a couple weeks away. So, what can we expect in these upcoming weeks?

First, it would be very surprising, and disappointing, if GM Dean Taylor does not work out some kind of deal or two before spring training.

Don't be too surprised if Jeromy Burnitz still ends up heading to the Mets. Rumors out of New York have the Mets, who have been the most active of all teams in the trade market, passing on free agent Juan Gonzales because they can't deal Todd Zeile and his $6 million salary.

If the Mets don't get Gonzales, they might be interested in Burnitz as an add-on to their already powerful lineup. The Brewers have long had an interest in lefthanded pitcher Glendon Rusch, but they probably would want another player too.

The Mets aren't rich in outfielders, now that they have traded Matt Lawton, who has been rumored to be involved in early trade talks with the Brewers. Maybe a three-team deal can be worked out, through which the Brewers will get Rusch and a outfielder.

Taylor also might have to consider a second deal for that outfielder. What about a rumor that surfaced during the winter meetings about the Tigers' Bobby Higginson? Might Tigers, and former Brewers' manager Phil Garner, be interested in Mark Loretta or Ron Belliard? Would Gar take another chance on Jeff D'Amico?

There still are deals to be made out there. It would be very surprising if Taylor doesn't make at least one.

Manager Davey Lopes admits he is very disappointed the Brewers have not made a deal. On the Brewers' official web site, Lopes talked freely about his disappointment, but does not blame Taylor, and holds out hope the Crew will still make some type of trade or signing that helps the ballclub.

The manager admits in the web site piece that the Brewers made unsuccessful runs at Lawton and Dmitri Young of the Reds.

Lopes also talked about a "new attitude" on the club this season, no matter what the personnel is. He feels new coaches Dave Stewart and Gary Matthews will be part of that change in attitude.

Be happy Taylor didn't deal for the Red Sox' Carl Everett. Since the bad boy was dealt to the Rangers, he also has had knee surgery.

So, the Brewers would have received a major headache, with a knee ache. Not a good deal. Taylor was right to pass on that one.

Tom Haudricourt, who served as The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel national baseball writer, has left the paper and moved to New York. He will continue to write his Sunday column for a while.

Good luck to Tom, who became a solid baseball writer. Tom finally managed to tone down his Richmond, Virginia, twang in recent years. It will be interesting to hear if he acquires a New York accent to go along with what is left of the Deep South.

Rumor is that the MJS will not replace Tom. That would be a shame, since baseball fans in this town like to follow the game beyond only the hometown favorites.

The winter tour will conclude again with the annual Diamond Dinner on Jan. 25. Richie Sexson will receive the team MVP and Home Run awards.

Other players who will get awards include pitchers Chad Fox, Ben Sheets and Ray King and Loretta. Bob Uecker will again emcee the event and undoubtedly keep fans in stitches.

By the way, this writer also will autograph copies of my book, "Down in the Valley: The History of Milwaukee County Stadium" and "The Making of Miller Park" before the dinner.

Speaking of books, the Brewers are publishing a special All Star Game book this season. Your truly is writing part of it. Stay tuned to this column for more information about it.