Brewers reportedly concerned about payroll

Published: Thursday, November 27, 2025 at 7:35 pm

Brewers Face Payroll Concerns, Potential Trade of Key Pitcher

Milwaukee Brewers management is reportedly concerned about their 2026 payroll, prompting speculation about potential roster adjustments. The team's financial considerations have brought the future of right-handed pitcher Freddy Peralta into question.

The Brewers extended a qualifying offer to pitcher Brandon Woodruff, who accepted the offer. This move strengthens the team's rotation for 2026, as Woodruff, despite missing the 2024 season and most of 2025 due to injury, performed well when healthy. However, Woodruff's contract significantly impacts the team's budget. He becomes only the second Brewer in franchise history to earn at least $20 million annually, joining Christian Yelich.

The Brewers typically operate with a payroll exceeding $100 million. With Woodruff's new deal, the team's projected payroll for next year is $136 million. While the roster is in good shape, having led the majors with 97 wins in 2025, the team may be seeking financial flexibility for future moves. Trading Woodruff is not an option until June 15th.

Peralta, who is slated for free agency after 2026, has been a speculative trade candidate. The Brewers have a history of trading star players before they reach free agency. Peralta is owed $8 million next year, and trading him could provide financial relief while potentially acquiring players to improve other areas of the roster.

The potential trade value of Peralta is being compared to that of Corbin Burnes, who was traded before his free agency. The Brewers received valuable players in return for Burnes. The team could still have a strong rotation even without Peralta.

Brewers management has downplayed the idea that Woodruff's signing would lead to a Peralta trade. However, market conditions could influence the team's decisions.

BNN's Perspective:

The Brewers are in a delicate position. Balancing competitiveness with financial prudence is a challenge for any team. While the potential trade of Peralta is understandable from a financial perspective, it would be a blow to the team's on-field performance. The Brewers will need to carefully weigh the short-term benefits of a trade against the long-term impact on their ability to contend.

Keywords: Brewers, payroll, Freddy Peralta, Brandon Woodruff, trade, MLB, baseball, roster, contract, free agency, Corbin Burnes, Milwaukee, financial flexibility

Full Story