As the Milwaukee Brewers navigate their 2024 season, they find themselves in a landscape marked by significant changes and challenging circumstances.
An Impressive 2023 Season
The Brewers enjoyed much success in 2023, securing 92 victories and clinching the National League Central crown. However, their quest to build on last season's triumphs has encountered several speed bumps, both in their pitching staff and managerial crew.
Managerial Shift
One of the more startling off-field changes came with the departure of Craig Counsell, the long-time manager who has become synonymous with the Brewers' recent success. Counsell's decision to take the helm of the Chicago Cubs left a leadership vacuum that the Brewers are still working to address.
Pitching Challenges
Possibly the most troubling developments for the Brewers have been the significant blows to their pitching rotation. Their ace, Corbin Burnes, was traded to the Baltimore Orioles, a move that sent shockwaves through the fan base. The hits kept coming as Adrian Houser moved to the New York Mets, further depleting their starting rotation.
If these departures weren't enough, the Brewers are also grappling with injuries to several key pitchers. Brandon Woodruff appears to be sidelined for the entire season due to persistent shoulder issues, adding another layer of complexity to an already strained rotation. Wade Miley, too, has been shelved after undergoing Tommy John surgery, and Robert Gasser required elbow surgery, casting further doubt on the depth and effectiveness of Milwaukee's pitching staff.
These changes have had predictable consequences for the Brewers' performance on the mound. Their starting rotation ranks near the bottom of several key statistical categories, including innings pitched, strikeouts, and quality-start percentage, underscoring the severity of their pitching woes.
Bullpen and Offense
Despite these setbacks, the Brewers do have some bright spots. Their bullpen has shown resilience and skill, currently ranking fourth in MLB in relief ERA. This strength in the bullpen has provided some critical support for the team as they navigate the challenges posed by their starting pitchers.
On the offensive side, Milwaukee is holding its own, ranking seventh in MLB for runs scored. This offensive production has been crucial in keeping the Brewers competitive despite their pitching difficulties.
Financial Constraints
Adding another layer of complexity to the Brewers' situation are the financial constraints under which they operate. According to estimates from Cot's Baseball Contracts/Baseball Prospectus, the Brewers have a bottom-ten payroll, a factor that significantly limits their ability to make splashy moves to shore up their roster.
Organizational Strategy
"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," according to sources familiar with the organization's thinking. This approach suggests that the Brewers are committed to a long-term strategy focused on sustainable growth rather than quick fixes.
As the 2024 season progresses, the Milwaukee Brewers face an uphill battle, with significant challenges that test their resilience and adaptability. Nevertheless, their strong bullpen, competitive offense, and strategic approach could yet enable them to navigate these trying times successfully and perhaps surprise both their supporters and doubters alike.