The Milwaukee Brewers, renowned for their budget-conscious approach, face another challenging decision regarding a key player. As the smallest market in Major League Baseball, the Brewers are unable to offer lucrative, long-term contracts that attract big-name stars. This financial reality has led to the trades of All-Stars such as Josh Hader, Corbin Burnes, and Devin Williams in recent years. Despite their success on the field, the Brewers must consistently balance talent retention with fiscal responsibility.
Their inability to retain star players was evident when shortstop Willy Adames signed a seven-year, $182 million contract with the San Francisco Giants after a stellar 2024 season. Now, speculation is growing that Milwaukee may part ways with another homegrown star, Brandon Woodruff, either during or after the 2025 season.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/23436900/1395242173.jpg)
Woodruff, when healthy, has been one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball. He made his first All-Star appearance in 2019 with an 11-3 record and a 3.62 ERA. Over the following seasons, he continued to impress, particularly in 2021 when he posted a 2.56 ERA and struck out 211 batters, finishing fifth in NL Cy Young voting. However, injuries have disrupted his career trajectory. In 2023, Woodruff started strong but suffered shoulder issues that limited him to just 11 starts. Despite his remarkable 2.28 ERA and a shutout that season, the Brewers non-tendered him due to his injury concerns.
Milwaukee later re-signed Woodruff to a two-year, $17.5 million contract, even though he was sidelined for the entirety of the 2024 season following surgery. This deal includes a mutual option for 2026 worth $20 million, with a $10 million buyout. While Woodruff is expected to return to the mound in 2025, uncertainty surrounds his health and ability to regain his All-Star form.
Given these factors, Brian Sampson of Fansided suggests the Brewers might explore trading Woodruff midseason if he proves fully healthy. The team’s financial constraints make committing $20 million to a 33-year-old pitcher with a surgically repaired shoulder unlikely. A trade could help the Brewers recoup value and avoid the $10 million buyout if they choose not to exercise the 2026 option.
However, trading Woodruff carries risks. The Brewers relied on 17 different starting pitchers in 2024, and if Woodruff performs at an elite level, his presence could be critical for a playoff push. In an ideal scenario, Woodruff would remain healthy, help lead Milwaukee to postseason success, and sign a team-friendly deal to stay with the Brewers beyond 2025.
