The Milwaukee Brewers are stepping into an uncertain chapter concerning their starting rotation, especially as key players enter free agency. The recent decisions regarding star pitchers Frankie Montas and Colin Rea set the stage for what could be a significantly altered pitching lineup for the upcoming season.
Changes in the Starting Rotation
As announced by the Brewers, Montas has opted against his part of a $20 million mutual option for the 2025 season, effectively marking the end of his contract with the team. In a parallel move, the Brewers chose to decline Rea’s $5.5 million club option, suggesting a narrower focus on financial strategy and roster optimization. Both Montas and Rea have been pivotal in the Brewers’ campaign, yet their exit could reflect the organization’s intent to reshape its pitching strategy and explore fresh talent in the off-season.
Montas, now 31 years old, joined the Brewers shortly before the trade deadline, contributing to a respectable yet inconsistent season. Across 30 starts and 150.2 innings pitched, he recorded a 4.84 ERA with 148 strikeouts. His tenure with Milwaukee saw him posting a 4.55 ERA in 11 starts, indicating that while he was a significant addition, he didn’t consistently perform at an elite level. His declining form, particularly shown through his overall win-loss record of 7-11, might have contributed to the team’s decision to move in a different direction.
Rea, 34, demonstrated slightly better results, boasting a 12-6 record and a 4.28 ERA in 32 appearances. However, his troubling 8.31 ERA in September undoubtedly raised concerns about his reliability during crucial moments. Not being included in the National League Wild Card Series only underscores questions about his longevity and future with the team. These statistics highlight a clear need for the Brewers to reassess their strategy on the mound.
Roster Adjustments and Future Implications
In addition to the pivotal decisions surrounding Montas and Rea, the Brewers have made granular adjustments to their roster. Right-hander Kevin Herget and left-hander Rob Zastryzny were claimed off waivers by the New York Mets and Chicago Cubs, respectively, indicating that the team is open to broader changes within their pitching staff. Meanwhile, Jake Bauers and Bryse Wilson cleared waivers and have been reassigned to Triple-A Nashville, suggesting that the Brewers are looking for ways to either develop their talent or explore off-season trades.
Bauers’ performance, yielding a .199 batting average and 43 RBIs, particularly in post-season play where he delivered a momentous home run, didn’t save him from scrutiny, indicating the pressure to perform at higher levels in a competitive atmosphere.
As Milwaukee prepares for the off-season, the departure of Montas and Rea could signal a larger shift in their approach, one that could foster opportunities for new pitchers to enter and thrive under the franchise’s established culture. The landscape of the Brewers’ pitching rotation is changing rapidly, and thus, management will need to devise a robust plan catering to both immediate needs and long-term growth. The burgeoning uncertainty can open doors to fresh talent, depending on the strategic choices made in the coming months.