The Milwaukee Brewers have had an offseason that might leave some fans feeling a bit uneasy about their position in the National League. While powerhouses like the Dodgers, Mets, and Cubs made splashy moves, the Brewers chose a different path, trading away standout Freddy Peralta to the Mets.
Outfielder Sal Frelick offers a grounded perspective on this strategy. He emphasizes that the Brewers prioritize nurturing and rewarding their homegrown talent over engaging in high-stakes free agency battles. Frelick, speaking on Foul Territory, highlighted the team's pride in developing players from within.
“We know we're not going to go out and sign these big guys every off-season,” Frelick said. “We take pride in drafting and developing our own.
Freddy came up through our system and never missed a start for us. Now, we've got guys like Caleb Durbin and Isaac Collins who fit our mold perfectly.
It's that Murph baseball style we love.”
Frelick acknowledges the emotional side of the business, especially when close teammates are traded. “You grow close to these guys.
"We know we're not going to go out and sign these big guys every offseason."
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) February 23, 2026
Sal Frelick has a ton of confidence in the Brewers ability to develop homegrown players. pic.twitter.com/dIKMhWDRn2
It's tough, but I understand the business side. Trades happen, and that's part of it,” he added.
Drafted 15th overall by Milwaukee in 2021, Frelick has seen firsthand how the Brewers' approach pays off, evidenced by their first-round bye in the 2025 playoffs. As he continues to excel, potentially at a Gold Glove level, Frelick stands to benefit from the team's commitment to its homegrown players. The Brewers' strategy may not grab headlines, but it’s a testament to their belief in building from within.