Roster Outlook Heading Into 2026
With the Milwaukee Brewers' season coming to a disappointing end after a sweep at the hands of the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS, the focus now shifts to the team's offseason plans. Several key players are set to hit free agency, including Brandon Woodruff, Freddy Peralta, and Christian Yelich.
The Brewers will need to make some tough decisions on who to re-sign and who to let go. Woodruff and Peralta have been stalwarts in the starting rotation, while Yelich has been the face of the franchise for years. Retaining that trio will be crucial if the Brewers hope to bounce back in 2026.
Prospects Provide Reason for Optimism
Despite the playoff exit, the Brewers do have some promising young talent waiting in the wings. Outfielder Jackson Chourio and pitchers Robert Gasser and Aaron Ashby are among the team's top prospects who could see increased roles next season.
Chourio, in particular, has drawn rave reviews and could be poised for a breakout campaign. The 21-year-old hit .314 with 24 home runs and 73 RBIs across two minor league levels in 2025. His blend of power and speed has many projecting him as a future All-Star.
Free Agent Decisions Loom Large
As the Brewers front office convenes to map out their offseason strategy, the futures of Woodruff, Peralta, and Yelich will be the primary focus. Retaining that trio would give Milwaukee an excellent foundation to build around, but it will come at a significant cost.
The team will also need to address other roster needs, such as finding a replacement for the departed Yelich and adding depth to the bullpen. How they navigate this critical offseason will go a long way in determining whether the Brewers can bounce back and reclaim their spot atop the NL Central in 2026.
TL;DR
- The Brewers face key free agent decisions on Brandon Woodruff, Freddy Peralta, and Christian Yelich this offseason.
- Top prospects like Jackson Chourio provide reasons for optimism, but the Brewers must make smart roster moves.
- Retaining their star players will be crucial, but the Brewers also need to address other needs to compete in 2026.