The Brewers are taking a look at pitcher Brandon Backe, who was designated for assignment and refused a trip to Houston's Triple-A club on Monday. Backe, 31, missed two months with an oblique injury and didn't pitch well in five total appearances. He's due $1.55 million this season, but his new club would only be responsible for a prorated portion of the $400,000 Major League minimum. "You have to at least take a look," Brewers assistant general manager Gord Ash said.