The Milwaukee Brewers are bracing for potential upheaval in their starting rotation as two key pitchers, Frankie Montas and Colin Rea, prepare to enter free agency this offseason. The departures could force the Brewers to seek out new arms to bolster their pitching staff and remain competitive in the tough National League Central division.
Montas and Rea Decline Options, Become Free Agents
Frankie Montas, acquired by the Brewers just before the trade deadline, has declined his part of a $20 million mutual option for 2025, opting instead for a $2 million buyout. The 31-year-old right-hander posted a combined 7-11 record with a 4.84 ERA and 148 strikeouts over 150⅔ innings in 30 starts between the Cincinnati Reds and Brewers this season. In his 11 starts with Milwaukee, Montas went 3-3 with a 4.55 ERA.
Similarly, Colin Rea will test the free agent waters after the Brewers declined his $5.5 million club option, triggering a $1 million buyout. The 34-year-old right-hander enjoyed a solid season overall, going 12-6 with a 4.28 ERA and 135 strikeouts across 167⅔ innings in 32 appearances (27 starts). However, Rea struggled down the stretch, posting an 8.31 ERA in September and being left off the Wild Card Series roster.
Impact on Brewers’ Pitching Staff
The potential losses of Montas and Rea could significantly impact the Brewers’ starting rotation depth and quality. While not necessarily front-line starters, both pitchers provided valuable innings and experience. Their departures may force Milwaukee to explore the free agent market or trade options to fill the voids.
Losing two established starters like Montas and Rea is never easy, especially for a team with playoff aspirations. The Brewers will need to be proactive in finding replacements if they hope to keep pace in a competitive division.
– MLB insider
Other Roster Moves and Implications
In related moves, the Brewers saw right-hander Kevin Herget claimed off waivers by the New York Mets and left-hander Rob Zastryzny claimed by the Chicago Cubs. First baseman Jake Bauers and right-hander Bryse Wilson cleared waivers and were outrighted to Triple-A Nashville.
These transactions underscore the fluidity of MLB rosters and the challenges teams face in building and maintaining a competitive pitching staff. As the Brewers navigate free agency and potential trades, they’ll need to balance short-term needs with long-term organizational goals.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As the Brewers look ahead to the 2025 season, several key questions arise:
- How will they replace the innings and production provided by Montas and Rea?
- Will they pursue high-profile free agents or focus on lower-cost options?
- Can their young pitchers step up and fill larger roles in the rotation?
- Will they explore the trade market to bolster their starting pitching depth?
The answers to these questions will play a significant role in shaping the Brewers’ competitiveness and aspirations for the upcoming season. With a solid core of position players in place, addressing the starting pitching will be a top priority for Milwaukee’s front office.
As the offseason unfolds, Brewers fans will eagerly await news of acquisitions and roster moves designed to strengthen the team’s chances in 2025 and beyond. The departure of Montas and Rea may signal the end of an era, but it also presents an opportunity for the organization to retool and reimagine its pitching staff for future success.
