After finishing the 2025 season with a franchise-best 97 wins, the Milwaukee Brewers faced a disappointing exit from the postseason. Despite their impressive regular-season record, the Brewers were swept in the National League Championship Series by the Los Angeles Dodgers, being outscored 15-4 and posting a record-low OPS in a championship series. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, they must navigate crucial decisions that could impact their chances of advancing further next year.

1. Will Milwaukee Trade Freddy Peralta?

Freddy Peralta emerged as one of the most valuable pitchers in the league last season, making him a prime trade candidate. With a salary of just $8 million for 2026 before hitting free agency, Peralta’s value is undeniable. The Brewers have a history of trading key players, as seen with Corbin Burnes, and multiple teams are already inquiring about Peralta. While he may not have the same track record as Burnes, his recent performance and favorable salary could lead to a lucrative trade.

2. How Will the Rotation Look Without Peralta?

If the Brewers decide to move Peralta, they must consider their rotation’s depth. While retaining Brandon Woodruff via a qualifying offer is a step in the right direction, concerns about his durability remain. The development of young pitchers like Quinn Priester and the promising Misiorowski will be critical. Misiorowski, who had a standout season, could be a key player in the rotation, but questions linger about his consistency and reliability moving forward.

3. Can the Brewers Upgrade Their Offense?

This offseason, Milwaukee’s moves have been minimal, with the most significant addition being outfielder Akil Baddoo. However, the team has lost offensive talent, trading Isaac Collins after a breakout season. With the Brewers ranking 11th in OPS and 22nd in home runs last year, questions arise about their ability to enhance their lineup before Opening Day. Potential trades or free-agent signings, like Miguel Andujar or Austin Hays, could provide much-needed reinforcement.

4. What’s Next for Jackson Chourio?

As the Brewers look to solidify their position-player group, Jackson Chourio stands out as a key player. Following a promising rookie season, Chourio’s sophomore campaign was less impressive, raising concerns about his development. However, the 22-year-old has the potential to be a franchise cornerstone. His ability to excel defensively in center field will be crucial for his long-term value, as it allows for greater flexibility in the lineup. Chourio’s growth in both hitting and fielding will significantly impact the Brewers’ future.

As pitchers and catchers report to Maryvale, Arizona, the Brewers face pivotal decisions that could shape their roster and aspirations for the upcoming season. With trade talks heating up and a need for offensive upgrades, fans will be watching closely to see how the organization addresses these challenges.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.

Kenji Tanaka is an experienced sports journalist who brings an analytical approach to his coverage of baseball and martial arts. With a deep respect for tradition and a keen interest in the evolving dynamics of sports, Kenji’s work reflects a balance between reverence for the past and excitement for the future. At 21Sports.com, his articles are a blend of rich cultural insights and sharp analysis. In his free time, Kenji enjoys practicing kendo and exploring culinary adventures.