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Brewers Target Pitching, Power, and Stability in 2026

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 0:30 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Analyzing the 2023 Disappointment and Defining 2026 Needs

The 2023 season, while not a complete disaster, fell short of Brewers' expectations. Consistent offensive struggles and an inability to consistently perform against divisional rivals highlighted areas needing immediate attention. The loss of Brandon Woodruff to Tommy John surgery has created a significant hole in the starting rotation, forcing the Brewers to prioritize pitching upgrades. While the team demonstrated flashes of potential, a lack of consistent power hitting, particularly from the outfield, hampered their ability to consistently score runs. A solid, but not spectacular, performance at first base also suggests an opportunity to upgrade and maximize offensive production. These three areas - starting pitching, outfield power, and first base consistency - form the core of Milwaukee's offseason strategy.

The Power of Familiarity: Embracing Reunion Signings

Rather than solely chasing new talent, the Brewers are shrewdly leveraging familiarity and clubhouse chemistry with a series of reunion signings. Eric Thames, a beloved veteran known for his power off the bench, is widely expected to rejoin the team. His veteran presence and ability to provide a spark in crucial moments offer a valuable asset, especially during a long season. Brent Suter's versatility - capable of contributing both on the mound and in the field - makes him a particularly attractive signing for a team valuing depth and flexibility. Suter's experience with the Brewers' system provides an immediate integration benefit. Most notably, the anticipated return of Zach Davies offers a degree of rotational stability. While not an ace, Davies provides a reliable arm with a proven track record within the Brewers organization, filling a crucial need in the wake of Woodruff's injury.

Targeting High-Impact Free Agents: Beyond the Familiar Faces

While reunions bolster the roster, the Brewers are also actively pursuing high-profile free agents to address their most pressing needs. Shota Imanaga, the highly sought-after Japanese left-hander, remains a top priority. Imanaga's potential to become a front-end starter instantly elevates the Brewers' rotation and provides a significant boost in competitiveness. Competition for Imanaga is fierce, and the Brewers will likely need to offer a substantial contract to secure his services. The pursuit of Cody Bellinger, the former MVP, represents a swing for the fences in addressing the outfield power deficiency. Bellinger's combination of power, speed, and defensive ability would transform the Brewers' lineup and provide a genuine threat to opposing pitchers. However, his price tag could be prohibitive. Jorge Soler, another power-hitting outfielder, presents a potentially more affordable option, offering a significant boost in run production without requiring the same financial commitment as Bellinger.

Strategic Considerations and Potential Trade Pieces

The Brewers' approach isn't limited to free agency. The team is also likely exploring potential trade opportunities to further refine their roster. While they possess a solid core of young players, packaging some of those assets could attract established players who fit their needs. Reports suggest the team is open to discussing trades involving position players to acquire additional starting pitching. The success of their offseason will largely depend on their ability to balance financial constraints with the need to acquire impact players. The front office seems to be prioritizing value and upside, seeking players who can contribute both in the short term and as the team transitions into the next competitive window.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect from the 2026 Brewers

Expect the Brewers to continue to be active throughout the remainder of the offseason. The team is committed to addressing their positional weaknesses and building a roster capable of competing for a playoff berth. The combination of reunion signings, strategic free agent acquisitions, and potential trade moves positions them for a more competitive 2026 season. While the NL Central is becoming increasingly difficult, the Brewers' commitment to improvement and their balanced approach give them a legitimate chance to contend. The next few weeks will be crucial as they finalize their roster and prepare for spring training, but the early signs suggest a promising offseason in Milwaukee.