The Milwaukee Brewers enter 2025 with some question marks. One of the biggest questions is the team’s positioning on the pitch. With Willy Adames leaving in free agency and joining the San Francisco Giants, Milwaukee needs to spotless up its on-field situation. There is talk of first base as Rhys Hoskins has signed for the upcoming season. Barring an injury or trade, he will likely be there on Opening Day.
The second base will likely be operated by Brice Turang after winning Golden Glove Award last year. Shortstop and third base are the biggest question marks. Breweries do Joey Ortiz and he’ll get one of those seats. They could keep him at third base and then fill the backup with an outside hitter or someone like Caleb Durbin.
Milwaukee could move Ortiz to shortstop and then fill third base with someone on the open market or internally with someone like Durbin.
Brewers need to get acquainted with DeJong Trade: a significant move awaits us
If the Brewers decide to add an outside hitter, their top priority should be former All-Star Paul DeJong. Milwaukee knew him well when he worked at St. Louis Cardinals. He would add a little more pop to the Brewers lineup and can play both shortstop and third base. He also adds some playoff accomplishments that could push the Brewers even further this year.
DeJong would still be fairly low-cost, earning just $1.75 million, and is projected to sign a two-year, $9.3 million contract this offseason after hitting 24 home runs for the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals last season.
The Brewers and Star Catcher headed to arbitration
The arbitration deadline has passed and the Brewers have agreed to terms with five of their six eligible players. Unfortunately, the lone player they couldn’t reach an agreement with turns out to be their most valuable player.
William Contreras, who is entering his first year of arbitration, is having another solid season for the Brewers, finishing fifth in the NL MVP voting, hitting .281/.365/.466 with 23 home runs, 92 RBI and a season-high 99 runs batted in 155 matches in his career.
After earning just $767,000 in 2024, Contreras entered arbitration this season with a projected salary of $7.6 million, according to MLB Trade Rumors. According to Mark Feinsand, Contreras requested $6.5 million and the Brewers requested $5.6 million. The Brewers have until February to resolve the case, which is around when his arbitration hearing will be held. If both parties reach an agreement before the hearing, it will not have to take place.
The Brewers went on to audition with fellow star Corbin Burnes in 2023. They argued over a more than $740,000 difference ($10.01 million vs. $10.75). Contreras is almost on par with Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh in stats for an arbitration-eligible first-year catcher (though Contreras has more of the bat and Raleigh adds more with his defensive value). Raleigh received a $5.6 million contract this year.
Highest salaries for a freshman catcher
1. Buster Posey $8 million (9.8 WAR, 164 wRC+)
2. Cal Raleigh $5.6 million (5.4 WAR, 117 wRC+, Plat. Glove)
T3. Matt Wieters $5.5 million (4.1 WAR, 107 wRC+)
T3. Adleyrutschman (2.8 WAR, 104 wRC+)
5. Will Smith $5.25 million (4.3 WAR, 124 wRC+)
The situation is fluid, another update will appear soon. The Brewers don’t want any conflict with their star player.
Follow me on X @RuZe_Twins. Fcome to your senses @WiSportsHeroics for more great, up-to-date sports content. To read more of our articles and stay up to date with the latest sports events in Wisconsin, click here!
Additionally, we provide the latest NBA news for you to follow Hardwood heroes.
Mayfield Sports Marketing
Call Mayfield Sports Marketing at 262-366-8188 to schedule Green Bay Packers players or alumni for a corporate appearance or product promotion. Our booking agents will work on your behalf to get you the best price for your chosen sports speaker. Mayfield Sports Marketing has gained a reputation as a company that invites top athletes to speak at events and trade shows. To learn more about Packers or alumni appearance costs and booking fees, call us today. www.MayfieldSports.com.
