The Milwaukee Brewers, defying expectations, clinched the National League Central Division title with a 93-69 record – a feat not many saw coming. Their journey through the 2023 season was a testament to resilience and strategy, especially given the off-season shake-ups.
The Brewers traded away their frontline ace, Corbin Burnes, to the Baltimore Orioles, bringing in Joey Ortiz and DL Hall in his place. Additionally, Craig Counsell, the franchise’s all-time wins leader as manager, took his talents to the Chicago Cubs, leaving a significant void.
Doubts surrounded Milwaukee’s ability to maintain its competitive edge, especially after losing key pitchers like Brandon Woodruff, Wade Miley, and Robert Gasser to season-ending injuries. Yet, the Brewers managed to keep their wheels turning smoothly on the diamond.
This success story was marked by several accolades recognizing the standout performances of players and management alike. Rising stars Brice Turang and Sal Frelick snagged the coveted NL Gold Glove awards at second base and right field, respectively, further cementing Turang’s prowess with the NL Platinum Glove.
William Contreras shone brightly, earning the NL Silver Slugger for his work behind the plate and placing fifth in the NL MVP race. And let’s not forget Jackson Chourio, the youngest player in MLB history to achieve a 20-20 season, who claimed third in the Rookie of the Year voting.
Leading this impressive roster, Pat Murphy was rightly honored with the NL Manager of the Year title.
The Brewers’ decision to trade Burnes wasn’t made lightly. With financial constraints typical of a small-market team, retaining Burnes beyond 2024 without losing him for a draft pick was improbable. The trade-off was Ortiz and Hall, who contributed significantly to Milwaukee’s success.
Meanwhile, shortstop Willy Adames continued to be a hot commodity. Despite potential offers from other teams, Milwaukee held onto him for good reason.
Adames rounded off a stellar season with a .251/.331/.462 slash line, clocking 32 home runs, 112 RBIs, and 21 stolen bases. Beyond his stats, Adames was the motivational heartbeat of the team, a role too crucial to relinquish.
However, the winds of change are blowing. Adames declined a $21 million qualifying offer, stepping into free agency and leaving Milwaukee pondering the future of the shortstop position.
Brice Turang, with his impressive defensive credentials, emerged as a potential candidate, though he has been thriving at second base. Joey Ortiz, originally a shortstop with the Orioles, could slide in but would leave third base open.
Fox Sports’ Deesha Thosar posed an intriguing possibility: reacquire former Brewer Orlando Arcia. Arcia, well-acquainted with the organization, bounced back to an All-Star level with Atlanta. Yet, his recent decline and modest defensive prowess compared to his prime years in Milwaukee might limit his appeal.
Ultimately, Milwaukee is likely to pursue a shortstop who can flash the leather defensively, relying on their current roster to offset any offensive downturn resulting from Adames’ departure. The Brewers have always thrived on creativity within the trade market, and the upcoming season could see clever maneuvers to retain their competitive edge. As one chapter ends, Milwaukee is undoubtedly crafting a new one, ensuring they remain a force to be reckoned with in the NL Central.
