The Milwaukee Brewers enter the 2025 season with several roster questions to address, especially regarding their infield alignment. With Willy Adames leaving via free agency to join the San Francisco Giants, the team now faces decisions on how to fill key spots. First base is locked in with Rhys Hoskins, who opted into his contract for the upcoming season. Barring injury or a trade, Hoskins is expected to be the starting first baseman on opening day.
At second base, Brice Turang is likely to take over after his Gold Glove-winning performance last year. However, shortstop and third base remain the biggest question marks. Joey Ortiz, who is already on the roster, will likely fill one of these spots. The team could keep Ortiz at third base and either sign an external player to handle shortstop or promote someone like Caleb Durbin for the position. Alternatively, Ortiz could move to shortstop, and the team might address third base either by signing a free agent or utilizing Durbin internally.
Brewers Should Pursue Paul DeJong
If the Brewers opt to add an external piece, one of their top targets should be former All-Star Paul DeJong. Having spent much of his career with the St. Louis Cardinals, DeJong is a familiar name in the division. He offers valuable experience and could bolster the Brewers’ lineup with additional power. DeJong is versatile, capable of playing both shortstop and third base, and could provide a playoff-tested presence in the clubhouse to help propel the Brewers further in 2025.
At a cost of just $1.75 million in 2024, DeJong represents a relatively affordable option. After hitting 24 home runs last season with the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals, he’s projected to sign a two-year, $9.3 million deal this offseason. His addition could be an impactful move for the Brewers as they aim to strengthen their infield and lineup.
William Contreras Faces Arbitration
Another important issue for the Brewers is the arbitration situation with catcher William Contreras. After a standout season in which he finished fifth in NL MVP voting, hitting .281 with 23 home runs and 92 RBIs, Contreras is entering his first year of arbitration. After earning just $767,000 in 2024, he is projected to make $7.6 million in arbitration, with Contreras filing for $6.5 million and the Brewers offering $5.6 million.
The Brewers have until February to resolve this, as arbitration hearings would take place after that if an agreement is not reached. Contreras’ arbitration numbers are comparable to those of Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who received $5.6 million after his first arbitration year. The Brewers will need to navigate this situation carefully to avoid any tension with one of their most valuable players.
