Mar 31, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Brandon Woodruff (53) delivers a pitch against the Tampa Bay Rays in the first inning at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images Michael McLoone-Imagn Images

3 Brewers Players Playing for New Contracts This Season

Originally posted on Milwaukee Brewers on SI
By Zach Pressnell | Last updated Apr 1, 2026 11:11 AM ET

The Milwaukee Brewers were one of the best teams in the league last year, but they opted to swing a few big trades during the offseason. They moved players like Freddy Peralta, Caleb Durbin, and Isaac Collins to plan for the future.

This season, the Brewers are loaded with talent, though some of their players are on expiring contracts. The Brewers aren't typically big spenders in free agency, so it could be difficult to re-sign some of the players heading into free agency.

Which Brewers players are playing for new contracts this season? Who has the most to gain from putting together a big season?

Catcher Gary Sanchez

Veteran catcher Gary Sanchez has a lot to gain this year, especially after Andrew Vaughn suffered an injury early this season. Sanchez hasn't put together a huge season over the last few years, so his value has tanked since 2023. But he has the chance to see regular playing time with Vaughn out. If he can get hot at the plate while showcasing versatility enough to play catcher and first base, he could find himself in a position to land a solid contract next offseason. At this point in his career, Sanchez needs to perform if he wants a job next year.

First baseman Jake Bauers

Jake Bauers has been thrust into the starting lineup with Vaughn out. Bauers is on an expiring contract and hasn't found the most success in the big leagues to this point. He's been worth negative WAR in every season but last year and his rookie season in 2018. As a result, he has to make the most of his time in the everyday lineup for the Brewers. It's hard to imagine Bauers earning many more chances on big league contracts if he can't be a productive player. Early this season, he's been very good for the Brewers.

Starting pitcher Brandon Woodruff

Starting pitcher Brandon Woodruff seemingly opted to bet on himself by agreeing to play on the qualifying offer this season. But that also means he's going to be a free agent next offseason. Woodruff is running out of time to earn big contracts in the big leagues, as he's likely only going to earn one to three-year deals from here on out. Either way, if he can pitch like an ace, he could earn another contract worth at least $20 million per year.

This article first appeared on Milwaukee Brewers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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