Milwaukee Brewers make waves as Brandon Woodruff embraces $22M deal amid trade speculation
The Milwaukee Brewers entered the offseason facing pivotal decisions regarding their pitching lineup, specifically around Freddy Peralta and Brandon Woodruff. Peralta is set to enter the final year of his contract, a situation the Brewers have navigated before with significant trades involving players like Corbin Burnes and Devin Williams. Speculation looms that Peralta could also find himself on the trading block in the months ahead.
Woodruff’s pivotal choice
The focus, however, has shifted to Woodruff, a veteran right-handed pitcher whose future was uncertain after receiving a qualifying offer from the Brewers. With the potential to test free agency and command a deal exceeding $50 million on the open market, the stakes were high. Yet, in a surprising turn, Woodruff opted to accept the Brewers’ $22 million qualifying offer, signaling his commitment to the team for the upcoming season.
In a recent conversation, Woodruff characterized his decision as an “easy choice,” despite the weight of the contract. “Come on, that’s a large number, and it’s a place where I’m comfortable and I love,” he remarked. His acceptance of the offer also held symbolic significance for him. “I took it as they really wanted me here,” he added, emphasizing the importance of the team’s gesture in extending the offer.
A historic contract
Woodruff’s acceptance is noteworthy, as his salary for 2026 marks the highest amount the Brewers have ever committed to a pitcher in franchise history. This development not only underscores the team’s faith in his abilities but also reflects their commitment to winning. “I know the ramifications of offering one-year and $22 million to a pitcher in the Brewers organization. That has never happened, so I don’t take that lightly,” Woodruff stated.
With Woodruff now secured, the Brewers find themselves in a more advantageous position regarding roster flexibility. This newfound stability could pave the way for the team to explore trading Peralta, although they appear to be in no rush to make that move just yet. As the offseason unfolds, the Brewers are poised to navigate their pitching staff’s future with renewed confidence, bolstered by Woodruff’s commitment to the team.
