As the Milwaukee Brewers navigate the waters of their 2024 season, the team has found itself in an intriguing and challenging position. Despite significant roster changes and ongoing struggles, they are leading their division with the third-best record in the National League. Here's a closer look at their journey and what it means going forward.
Unpacking the 2023 Milestones
The Brewers achieved an impressive milestone in the 2023 season, winning 92 games and securing the National League Central crown. However, since then, the team's landscape has dramatically shifted. Long-time manager Craig Counsell departed to take the helm of the Chicago Cubs, leaving a noticeable gap in leadership. This change has inevitably influenced the Brewers' strategy and performance on the field.
Major Roster Shake-Ups
In terms of player personnel, the Brewers have faced significant turnover. Ace pitcher Corbin Burnes was traded to the Baltimore Orioles, a move that surprised many fans. Additionally, Adrian Houser moved to the New York Mets, further depleting the Brewers' starting rotation. Compounding these losses, Brandon Woodruff is likely to miss the entire season due to persistent shoulder issues, and Wade Miley has undergone Tommy John surgery.
Young pitcher Robert Gasser also needed elbow surgery, adding to the Brewers' rotation woes. As a result, their starting rotation now ranks near the bottom in several crucial statistical categories, including innings pitched, strikeouts, and quality-start percentage. This stark decline is a critical concern for a team aspiring to maintain its competitive edge.
The Bullpen Stands Strong
Amidst these challenges, one area where the Brewers have excelled is their bullpen. Currently ranked fourth in MLB in relief ERA, the bullpen has been a beacon of consistency and a vital component in keeping the team competitive. With such a strong bullpen, the Brewers have managed to mitigate some of the negative impacts of their struggling starting rotation.
Offensive Prowess
On the offensive side, the Brewers have fared well, ranking seventh in MLB for runs scored. This offensive output has been crucial in supporting the pitching staff and securing victories. The team's ability to generate runs has helped balance their overall performance and maintain their standing in the division.
Financial Constraints
Financially, the Brewers operate with a bottom-ten payroll, as estimated by Cot's Baseball Prospectus. This fiscal limitation poses a significant challenge for the team as they attempt to address their pitching needs. Unlike teams with larger budgets, the Brewers must be strategic in their investments, often avoiding high-profile signings and significant trades that could further strain their financial resources.
Management's Strategy
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." This cautious approach reflects the Brewers' long-term strategy of building a sustainable and competitive team without compromising their future by making short-term, high-risk moves.
In summary, the Milwaukee Brewers are navigating a season filled with obstacles and notable changes. Their success in 2024 will depend largely on their ability to adapt to these challenges while leveraging their strengths, such as a reliable bullpen and a capable offense. How the Brewers manage these hurdles will be critical as they aim to stay atop their division and continue their pursuit of excellence in the National League.