News Summary
The Milwaukee Brewers have ended their season following a sweep by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series, prompting significant offseason decisions. With expected departures of key pitchers Brandon Woodruff and José Quintana, the team is looking to young prospects for the upcoming season. Freddy Peralta is anticipated to remain, but with uncertainty in the pitching rotation, the Brewers face pivotal challenges as they prepare for 2026.
Milwaukee – The Milwaukee Brewers have concluded their season following a sweep by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series, setting the stage for critical offseason decisions as they prepare for the 2026 season. With key players like starting pitchers Brandon Woodruff and José Quintana expected to leave the organization through free agency, the team faces significant changes in its pitching lineup.
Woodruff is not anticipated to return, as he is likely seeking a multi-year deal elsewhere, despite the Brewers holding a $20 million mutual option for him. The pitcher struggled with injuries during the 2025 season, managing to pitch only 106 2/3 innings due to a late-season lat injury. His departure could leave the Brewers without their most experienced pitcher, as José Quintana, who played a crucial role for the team, is also unlikely to return, giving way to younger prospects.
In contrast, the Brewers are rumored to exercise the club option for Freddy Peralta for 2026 before potentially considering a trade. Peralta had a successful 2025 season, concluding with a record of 17-6, a 2.70 ERA, and a 5.5 WAR over 33 starts. With uncertainty looming in their starting rotation, the Brewers will need to rely on Peralta as an anchor if they choose to retain him.
Challenges in the Starting Rotation
The Brewers faced a solid season from their pitching rotation in 2025 but must now confront uncertainty ahead of 2026. Young pitchers Jacob Misiorowski, Chad Patrick, and Quinn Priester are among those projected to take on larger roles in the upcoming season. If both Woodruff and Quintana depart, Priester may become the second-most experienced pitcher in the rotation, having less than two years of major league service.
Other pitchers, including Logan Henderson, who had his season cut short due to an elbow injury, and Robert Gasser, who did not pitch many innings, further contribute to a sense of instability within the pitching corps. There remains a pressing need for depth and experience, particularly as Milwaukee seeks to develop reliable pitching prospects into major league contributors.
Offseason Contracts and Roster Changes
Several key players are slated to explore free agency, including Rhys Hoskins and Danny Jansen. It is expected that the Brewers will decline their options along with those of Quintana. Meanwhile, Christian Yelich, Jackson Chourio, and Aaron Ashby are all under contract for 2026, providing a backbone for the team’s future.]
Given their status as one of the youngest rosters in MLB, the Brewers may opt for internal promotions to fill gaps rather than pursuing high-priced free agents. This approach could allow the organization to enhance its talent pool while managing its payroll effectively.
Looking Ahead
As the offseason progresses, the Brewers’ management is expected to concentrate on developing their young pitchers and addressing holes in the pitching lineup. With the challenges triggered by impending free agency and the need for building depth, 2026 will be a test for the franchise.
The team’s ability to cultivate emerging talent will be critical as they aim to compete effectively in the upcoming season. Milwaukee’s strategy appears focused on reliability and performance rather than splurging on external signings, suggesting a long-term vision for the organization.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Milwaukee Brewers Prepare for National League Division Series
Milwaukee Brewers Clinch NL Central Division Title Again
Additional Resources
- Brew Crew Ball: The Youth of the Brewers Rotation
- Sports Illustrated: Trade Rumors and All-Star Retention
- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Contract Status of Brewers Players
- Wikipedia: Milwaukee Brewers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Milwaukee Brewers
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
