The Brewers enter 2026 coming off a franchise-best 97-65 record and an NLCS appearance. While the core of the roster remains largely intact, the offseason was defined by a massive shift in pitching philosophy as they traded away their perennial ace, Freddy Peralta, and will be leaning into one of the league’s best farm systems to replace him.
Milwaukee is betting that their coaching staff can turn high-upside potential into a sustainable championship window. The Brewers signed Luis Rengifo (1 year, $3.5million) in hopes he can be the primary solution at 3B, or if not he can fit into a utility role on the team.
Lineup
Milwaukee’s offense was a top 10-unit last season and they return nearly every major contributor. Their identity remails built up an elite baserunning/athleticism which is assisted by high-OBP table setting. Jackson Chourio is no longer a prospect but has developed into a bona fide superstar entering his age 22 season after a stellar 2025. William Contreras returns behind the plate, while Brice Turang has evolved into one of the premier contact hitters and defenders in the National League.
Christian Yelich has fully embraced his role as a primary DH, which kept him healthy enough to lead the team in home runs last season. Andrew Vaught, acquired during 2025, provides a middle-of-the order power that Milwaukee has historically lacked. Rengifo will provide a versatile, high-contact bat to replace the traded Caleb Durbin.
Rotation
Following the Peralta trade, the rotation went through a transformation as the Brewers were able to net back two top 100 prospects in Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams. With Peralta gone, Brandon Woodruff returns, after accepting a $22million qualifying offer, to lead the staff as their ace and veteran anchor. Behind him, Jacob Misiorowski (#1 pitching prospect in the system) is armed with a triple-digit heater and a devasting slider that if he can maintain consistent control has the ceiling of a CY Young contender. Kyle Harrison, acquired as part of the Durbin trade, is a hard throwing southpaw who brings more big league experience than most of the other young arms. Quinn Priester is coming off a breakout 2025 in which he posted a 3.32 ERA over 157 innings, unfortunately a wrist injury could force him to miss the start of the season. Chad Patrick is also coming off a good 2025 in which he posted a 3.25 ERA in 23 starts.
Bullpen
While the rotation is undergoing a youthful overhaul, the bullpen remains a strength, though manager, Pat Murphy, has been non-committal regarding a dedicated closer. Trevor Megill, the incumbent “power” option, should get the first crack at the role as he finished 2025 with 30 saves and a 2.49 ERA, though there are some questions regarding his health entering the season. Abner Uribe was arguably the best reliever in the NL after last season’s all star break, posting a ridiculous 0.63 ERA and controls a sinker that routinely hits 101 MPH. Jared Koenig has proven to be an elite high-leverage weapon with consecutive seasons of a sub 3.00 ERA. Angel Zerpa offers a unique 30-degree arm slot that can be a nightmare for left handed hitters.
Projected Lineup
- Brice Turang – 2B
- Jackson Chourio – LF
- William Conteras – C
- Christian Yelich – DH
- Andrew Vaugh – 1B
- Sal Frelick – RF
- Luis Rengifo – 3B
- Garrett Mitchell – CF
- Joey Ortiz – SS
Projected Rotation
- Brandon Woodruff
- Jacob Misiorowski
- Kyle Harrison
- Quinn Priester
- Chad Patrick
Projected Bullpen
Trevor Megill – Closer
Abner Uribe – Setup
Jared Koenig
Angel Zerpa
DL Hall
Aaron Ashby
Manager: Pat Murphy (3rd season)
Projection: 91-71 (1st in the NL Central)
Written By: Brian Finnigan
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