"That's a bit of a double-edged sword for the Brewers. On the one hand, it strengthens their 2026 rotation. Woodruff missed all of 2024 and most of 2025 but was fantastic when on the bump this year. He made 12 starts, pitching 64 2/3 innings with a 3.20 earned run average, 32.3% strikeout rate and 5.4% walk rate. He finished the season on the injured list with a lat strain but is expected to be healthy for the start of 2026."
"The downside is that Woodruff is now taking up a huge chunk of the budget and puts the Brewers in an unusual spot. Woodruff becomes just the second Brewer in franchise history to be making at least $20MM annually. The other is Christian Yelich, who is making $26MM annually through 2028, in addition to a $6.5MM buyout on a 2029 mutual option."
The Brewers face notable 2026 payroll pressure after Brandon Woodruff accepted a $22.025MM qualifying offer, creating a large budget commitment. Woodruff missed all of 2024 and most of 2025 but delivered a 3.20 ERA, 32.3% strikeout rate and 5.4% walk rate across 12 starts in 2025 and is expected to be healthy for 2026. His contract makes him only the second Brewer earning at least $20MM, alongside Christian Yelich. Payroll projections rise from roughly $123MM to about $136MM. The roster remains strong after a 97-win season, but limited flexibility may prompt trade consideration, including for Freddy Peralta.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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