Woodruff’s Qualifying Offer Decision Approaches
As the clock ticks down, Major League Baseball players face a pivotal moment: the deadline to accept or decline the qualifying offer. Among the select few—only 13 players received this tender—Milwaukee Brewers ace Brandon Woodruff stands in the spotlight. He has until 4 p.m. ET on November 18th to make his choice on a one-year contract valued at just over $22 million for the 2026 season.
The Stakes for Woodruff
Should Woodruff accept the qualifying offer, he secures a substantial paycheck for the upcoming season. However, declining the offer opens up a different avenue. If he opts for a new deal with another team, the Brewers would be compensated with draft picks based on the value of his new contract. This decision carries significant weight, and with the deadline approaching, the anticipation builds.
Market Dynamics and Expert Insights
Industry insiders are suggesting that Woodruff may have better options than the one-year deal on the table. According to insights from The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon, Woodruff is not alone in navigating a complex market. They noted, “Right-hander Brandon Woodruff and left-hander Shota Imanaga, while their circumstances are completely different, are both starting pitchers occupying the segment of the market that often generates the most heated interest.”
Woodruff’s Recent Performance
Despite a challenging past season, Woodruff’s performance in limited appearances cannot be overlooked. Set to turn 33 in February, he underwent shoulder surgery that sidelined him for all of 2024. In 2025, he managed only 12 starts, yet he posted an impressive 3.20 ERA and achieved a career-best strikeout-to-walk ratio. Such statistics, even in a limited sample size, suggest that he remains a valuable asset, compelling teams to consider him in a competitive pitching market.
Implications for the Brewers
The Brewers now face a dilemma: can they bring back a pitcher of Woodruff’s caliber, especially given his recent health concerns? As negotiations unfold, the franchise must weigh the potential of losing a key player against the benefits of draft compensation should he choose to sign elsewhere. With the deadline looming, the baseball world awaits Woodruff’s decision, which promises to shape the off-season landscape for both him and the Brewers.
