The Milwaukee Brewers are poised for a significant overhaul of their starting rotation as they head into the offseason. With impending free agency looming for right-handers Frankie Montas and Colin Rea, both players have made pivotal decisions that could influence the team’s trajectory in 2025. Montas opted out of a $20 million mutual option, while the Brewers chose to decline Rea’s $5.5 million club option. These moves not only signal a shift in personnel but also hint at the team’s strategic direction moving forward.
Montas will receive a $2 million buyout following his decision, while Rea will be paid $1 million. The financial implications of these options highlight the Brewers’ intention to streamline their roster, focusing on performance and fiscal responsibility. Montas, who posted a mixed record of 7-11 alongside a 4.84 ERA and 148 strikeouts across 150.2 innings, had a somewhat disappointing stint with the Brewers after being acquired at the trade deadline. While he managed to secure a 3-3 record with a 4.55 ERA in Milwaukee, the overall picture suggests that the Brewers are looking to recalibrate their pitching strengths.
Rea’s season numbers paint a more stable picture compared to Montas. With a record of 12-6 and a 4.28 ERA over 32 appearances, Rea exhibited consistency but fell short in crucial moments, evidenced by his 8.31 ERA in September. The fact that he was not included in the Brewers’ NL Wild Card Series roster indicates a lack of confidence from coaching staff in his current form, which could have contributed to the team’s decision not to retain him.
On the other hand, the Brewers also saw movements elsewhere on the roster. Right-hander Kevin Herget was claimed off waivers by the New York Mets, while left-hander Rob Zastryzny was picked up by the Chicago Cubs. Both departures, alongside the outright assignments of first baseman Jake Bauers and right-hander Bryse Wilson to Triple-A Nashville, showcase a broader re-evaluation of the existing talent pool.
With these changes unfolding, the Brewers seem to be positioned for a fresh start in rebuilding their pitching staff. The departures of players like Montas and Rea might open doors for new talent either from within the organization or through acquisitions in free agency. The challenge will involve finding reliable pitchers capable of contributing effectively while also juggling the financial constraints of major league baseball.
The Brewers will need to carefully assess their options in the coming months, weighing performance metrics and potential upside against the realities of their budget. As they prepare for the next season, the strategic decisions they make now will be pivotal in shaping their success and competitiveness in an increasingly challenging landscape of MLB. Ultimately, the team’s decisions will resonate as either a precursor to renewed success or a cautionary tale of missed opportunities.