As the Milwaukee Brewers continue their 2024 season, the team finds itself in a fascinating and challenging position. Having won 92 games in 2023 and securing the National League Central crown, the Brewers entered this season with high expectations. However, several key changes and injuries have altered the dynamics of their roster, creating a unique set of circumstances that the team is navigating through.
A Season of Change
One of the most significant changes for the Brewers was the departure of long-time manager Craig Counsell, who took the helm of the Chicago Cubs. Counsell's move added an extra layer of intrigue to an already competitive division. Additionally, the Brewers saw the departure of several key players, including pitcher Corbin Burnes, who was traded to the Baltimore Orioles, and Adrian Houser, who moved to the New York Mets.
The Brewers' pitching staff has been particularly hard-hit by injuries. Brandon Woodruff, a cornerstone of the rotation, is likely to be sidelined for the entire season due to persistent shoulder issues. Adding to their woes, Wade Miley underwent Tommy John surgery, and Robert Gasser needed elbow surgery. These injuries have left the Brewers' starting rotation struggling, as evidenced by their near-bottom rankings in several key statistical categories, including innings pitched, strikeouts, and quality-start percentage.
Strength in the Bullpen
Despite the challenges faced by the starting rotation, the Brewers' bullpen has been a bright spot. The bullpen is ranked fourth in Major League Baseball in relief ERA, providing a reliable backstop for the team in tight games. This strong performance from the bullpen has been crucial in maintaining the Brewers' competitive edge, even as their starting rotation falters.
Hitting the Mark
Offensively, the Brewers have also shown potency, ranked seventh in MLB for runs scored. This offensive production has been a key factor in their ability to stay competitive in a tough division. With their bats coming alive, the Brewers have managed to compensate for some of the deficiencies on the pitching side of the ball.
Operating on a Tight Budget
Financial constraints have also played a role in shaping the Brewers' season. Operating with a bottom-ten payroll, according to Cot's/Baseball Prospectus estimates, the team has had to be judicious in their spending. This financial prudence has influenced their approach to filling gaps in their roster. According to sources familiar with the organization's thinking, "The Milwaukee Brewers, leading their division with the National League's third-best record despite needing pitching help, don't seem inclined to fix that hole through big spending or by trading top prospects at the deadline."
Given these constraints, the Brewers' front office has had to rely on strategic decisions and player development to stay competitive. While big-market teams might splurge on marquee trades or free-agent signings, Milwaukee has had to chart a different path, focusing on maximizing the talent already within their organization.
As the Brewers navigate the rest of the 2024 season, their resilience and ability to adapt will be put to the test. The combination of a strong bullpen, potent offense, and cautious financial strategy will be crucial for their sustained success. With the competitive landscape of the National League Central evolving and the departure of key personnel, the Brewers' journey through the season will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.