The Milwaukee Brewers have set their Opening Day roster, resolving earlier uncertainties about key players like Brandon Woodruff and Brandon Lockridge. With those questions behind them, the focus now shifts to how manager Pat Murphy will utilize his 26-man squad.
As the Brewers gear up for the season, fans are eager to see the lineup decisions, particularly in the outfield and at third base. Will Jake Bauers take left field and Jackson Chourio center?
Is a platoon in the cards for third base? These answers will come just before the first pitch, but the real intrigue lies in the bullpen.
The burning question: Who will close for the Brewers this season? It’s a choice between Trevor Megill, the seasoned closer, and the promising Abner Uribe.
Last season’s late injury to Megill allowed Uribe to shine, stepping into the closer role and posting a stellar 1.67 ERA over 75.1 innings. Now, with both pitchers healthy, the Brewers haven’t declared a definitive closer.
Megill, with 51 saves in the last two seasons and a fresh $4.7 million arbitration deal, is the safe bet. His consistency is undeniable, and his past injury was the only hiccup in his ninth-inning duties.
However, there’s a strategic angle to consider. Uribe’s arbitration eligibility looms after the 2027 season.
If the Brewers start racking up saves for him now, his future salary could skyrocket. Keeping him in high-leverage situations without the official closer title might be a savvy financial move.
Murphy’s decision in the first save situation will be telling. Whether he opts for Megill’s reliability or Uribe’s potential, it will reveal the Brewers’ approach to managing their bullpen in 2026. The choice between proven experience and youthful promise is a fascinating subplot as the season unfolds.