The Milwaukee Brewers are doubling down on their commitment to manager Pat Murphy, extending his contract with a new three-year deal and a club option for 2029. This agreement not only reworks the final year of his previous contract but also secures Murphy's presence in Milwaukee for the foreseeable future. With the Brewers thriving under his leadership, this move comes as no surprise.
Murphy stepped in two seasons ago after Craig Counsell's unexpected departure to the Cubs. Since then, the Brewers have been on a roll.
In 2024, they clinched the National League Central division title with a 93-69 record, earning Murphy the N.L. Manager of the Year award.
Despite an early playoff exit, his impact was undeniable.
The following season, the Brewers upped their game, racking up 97 wins-the best in the majors-and once again capturing the division crown. Murphy's leadership was recognized with another Manager of the Year honor as the team advanced to the NLCS before falling to the Dodgers.
Murphy's initial three-year contract was nearing its end, and with Milwaukee's impressive performance, it was only logical to extend his tenure. Teams typically avoid having managers in a lame-duck status, and the Brewers are no exception.
While Murphy's leadership remains a constant, the roster has seen significant changes. Key trades included sending Freddy Peralta and Tobias Myers to the Mets and Caleb Durbin to the Red Sox. Murphy has adeptly navigated these transitions, maintaining the team's competitive edge despite losing key players like Corbin Burnes, Willy Adames, and Devin Williams in previous seasons.
As the Brewers gear up for 2026, they face a more competitive division. The Cubs and Reds, both Wild Card teams last year, have bolstered their rosters with players like Alex Bregman, Edward Cabrera, and Eugenio Suárez. The Pirates, with a strong farm system, have added talent like Brandon Lowe and Marcell Ozuna.
Despite these challenges, the Brewers remain a formidable force, poised for another playoff push under Murphy's guidance. With the new contract in place, Murphy is set to lead the charge for continued success and deeper postseason runs.