The Milwaukee Brewers are poised for a significant reshuffling in their pitching lineup as they head into the offseason. With two key right-handed pitchers, Frankie Montas and Colin Rea, entering free agency, the Brewers must reevaluate their strategies both on the mound and in terms of player acquisition. Montas opted out of his mutual $20 million option for 2025, a decision that highlights his intent to explore new opportunities. Meanwhile, the Brewers have decided against activating Rea’s $5.5 million club option, which leaves both players’ futures uncertain as they seek new contracts.
Montas’ choice to decline the mutual option comes with a two-million-dollar buyout, a financial safety net as he pursues higher potential earnings in free agency. At 31 years old, Montas offers experience but not without challenges; he ended the season with a combined record of 7-11, a 4.84 ERA, and 148 strikeouts over more than 150 innings pitched. His underperformance, especially during trades, raises questions about his market value moving forward. Rea, aged 34, produced a more respectable 12-6 record along with a 4.28 ERA in 32 outings. However, his September struggles, coupled with his exclusion from the Wild Card Series roster, seem to have influenced the Brewers’ decision to let him go.
Waiver Moves and Roster Adjustments
Aside from these pivotal pitching changes, the Brewers made additional roster adjustments by claiming and waiving players. Right-hander Kevin Herget was picked up by the New York Mets, while left-hander Rob Zastryzny joined the Chicago Cubs. These movements reflect the relentless quest for better performance and depth within the team’s roster. Herget’s statistics reveal a consistent performance in the minor leagues with a 2.27 ERA, though he had limited appearances in Milwaukee. Similarly, Zastryzny demonstrated potential with a 1.17 ERA in his limited outings for the Brewers but is now seeking a more prominent role elsewhere.
The Brewers also faced difficulties with some position players. First baseman Jake Bauers, despite his playoff home run, finished the season with a disappointing .199 batting average, raising doubts about his fit for next year’s lineup. With a solid on-base percentage of .301, he could be retained as depth, yet the team might look for stronger offensive options. Conversely, Bryse Wilson, who showed flashes of potential with a 4.04 ERA in 34 appearances, may find his spot in the starting rotation still being in question as the offseason progresses.
As the Brewers prepare for the offseason, significant questions linger over their pitching lineup and overall strategy. The departure of both Montas and Rea could signal a shift in team philosophy, perhaps leaning towards youth and potential over established performance. The decisions made will be crucial as Milwaukee attempts to remain competitive in a challenging league, and the quest for new talent will be pivotal in their plans moving forward. With an impactful offseason ahead, the Brewers are not just facing change, but an opportunity to redefine their identity for the upcoming season.