Brewers DH Outlook: Key Players and Potential Impact
As we gear up for the 2026 season at American Family Field, the Brewers are sticking with a familiar strategy at designated hitter. Last year, they kept it simple, with only 12 players taking a turn at DH. But the real story is about two hitters who made more than 20 appearances and are back for more this season.
Brewers' DH Performance Snapshot
- 2025 fWAR Ranking: 10th out of 30
- 2026 fWAR Projection: 9th out of 30
The Positives
Christian Yelich remains a cornerstone for the Brewers. In 2025, he led the team with 29 home runs and played in 150 games-his best since 2022.
While his .264/.343/.452 slash line marked his lowest OPS since 2022, Yelich is still the go-to bat in the lineup. As the highest-paid player, his continued health and performance are crucial for the team's success in 2026.
William Contreras also made a mark with 22 starts at DH, often stepping in when he needed a break from catching duties. Despite a dip in his OPS over the past three seasons, Contreras remains a key figure in the lineup, aiming for a comeback season.
Bench players Jake Bauers and Gary Sanchez are waiting in the wings, ready to step up when needed. Bauers, who appeared in seven games at DH last season, and Sanchez, returning after a stint with Baltimore, could both see action based on matchups and injuries.
The Concerns
Health is the biggest concern, particularly for Yelich. If he's sidelined, the lineup could struggle without his presence.
While Contreras is a reliable regular, Bauers and Sanchez are more situational players. If they're thrust into larger roles, the Brewers might face challenges.
However, there's potential for Bauers and Sanchez to form a decent DH duo if needed.
Yelich's base-running skills, highlighted by 16 stolen bases last year, add another layer to his value. Although the backups may not match his speed, the Brewers have other options like Brice Turang, Sal Frelick, and Jackson Chourio to bring speed to the game.
The Big Picture
While the designated hitter role might not grab headlines, it’s pivotal for the Brewers. With Yelich and Contreras sharing the load, their health is paramount.
The team also traded ace Freddy Peralta to the Mets, which could impact pitching. This means scoring more runs will be essential, relying on both seasoned players like Yelich and emerging talents to step up.
The Brewers' success hinges on maintaining solid offensive production, especially from their DH spot.