With Opening Day just around the corner, the Milwaukee Brewers' roster is taking shape, giving us a glimpse into what the team might look like as they kick off the 2026 season. While the outfield roster decisions are becoming clearer, the pitching staff still holds a few mysteries.
The Brewers are set to fill 13 roster spots with pitchers, splitting them between a five-man starting rotation and an eight-man bullpen. Let's dive into how that bullpen might stack up come Opening Day.
Milwaukee Brewers' Bullpen Predictions for the 2026 Season
Bullpen Locks (5): Trevor Megill, Abner Uribe, Ángel Zerpa, Grant Anderson, Aaron Ashby
Assuming no last-minute injuries, Trevor Megill, Abner Uribe, Ángel Zerpa, Grant Anderson, and Aaron Ashby are all but guaranteed spots in the bullpen. Megill and Uribe are both in the mix for the closer role, with Zerpa likely stepping in as a key setup man, especially after his stellar performance in the World Baseball Classic.
Anderson is expected to handle significant innings as a middle reliever, providing a right-handed option in lower-leverage situations. Ashby, unless he gets slotted into the starting rotation, will be the versatile arm the Brewers rely on for high-leverage, multi-inning appearances.
Near Locks in the Bullpen (2): Jared Koenig and DL Hall
Despite some Spring Training struggles, particularly with his velocity, Jared Koenig is a strong contender for a bullpen spot. His past effectiveness gives him an edge, and his recent performances in the Cactus League have shown improvement.
DL Hall, too, is expected to secure a bullpen position. Though his career has been marred by injuries since joining the Brewers in the Corbin Burnes trade in 2023, his healthy periods have demonstrated his capability as a valuable multi-inning reliever.
The Bullpen Bubble
With one spot still open in the bullpen and injuries sidelining Craig Yoho and Rob Zastryzny, the Brewers are likely leaning toward adding another right-hander. This makes Easton McGee and non-roster invitee Jacob Waguespack the primary contenders.
McGee, already on the 40-man roster, seems to have the upper hand, as adding Waguespack would require some roster maneuvering. However, Waguespack's impressive spring performance ensures he'll be in the conversation for a call-up during the season.
As the Brewers finalize their roster, the decisions made now could set the tone for their bullpen's performance throughout the season. Fans should keep an eye on these developments as Opening Day approaches, with the bullpen poised to play a critical role in the team's success.