As the Milwaukee Brewers forge ahead through their 2024 season, they're grappling with a unique and challenging landscape. The team is simultaneously buoyed by offensive prowess and hamstrung by pitching woes, presenting a mixed bag of prospects for the year ahead.
A Tumultuous Offseason
Last season, the Brewers clinched 92 victories and captured the National League Central title, marking a successful 2023 campaign. However, the offseason was anything but tranquil. Long-time manager Craig Counsell surprised many by taking the reins of the rival Chicago Cubs, signaling a significant shift in leadership.
Major changes weren't limited to the dugout. Corbin Burnes, a pivotal figure in the Brewers' rotation, was traded to the Baltimore Orioles. Further shaking up the pitching staff, Adrian Houser made his move to the New York Mets. Adding to the turmoil, Brandon Woodruff, another stalwart of the pitching lineup, is likely out for the entire season due to persistent shoulder issues. The blows kept coming as Wade Miley underwent Tommy John surgery, and Robert Gasser required elbow surgery.
Pitching Woes
As a result of these departures and injuries, Milwaukee's starting rotation has plummeted in effectiveness. Key metrics paint a grim picture, with the Brewers' rotation ranking near the bottom in innings pitched, strikeouts, and quality-start percentage. These struggles leave a gaping hole in a team that once prided itself on dominant starting pitching.
Relief and Offense: The Silver Linings
Not all is bleak for the Brewers, though. The bullpen has stepped up admirably, boasting the fourth-best relief ERA in Major League Baseball. This strength is a beacon of hope, potentially offering a safety net for the struggling starters.
On the offensive side, the Brewers have been efficient and productive, ranking seventh in MLB for runs scored. This offensive firepower has been crucial in maintaining their competitiveness within the division.
Financial Constraints
Despite their competitive edge, the Brewers are operating with significant financial constraints. According to Cot's/Baseball Prospectus, their payroll is among the bottom ten in the league. This fiscal reality puts a cap on their ability to make big-ticket acquisitions or shore up weaknesses via high-spending avenues.
Sources familiar with the organization’s mindset indicate that the Brewers, though leading their division with the National League's third-best record, are not inclined to fill their pitching gap through substantial spending or by trading top prospects at the deadline. The front office appears committed to a sustainable approach, focusing on the long-term health of the franchise rather than short-term patchwork solutions.
As the season progresses, the Brewers' ability to navigate their challenges while leveraging their strengths will be crucial. With a dynamic offense and a steadfast bullpen, the team has pieces in place to remain a formidable contender, even as they face significant hurdles in their pitching staff.