Brewers could trade star pitcher this offseason

Apr 21, 2019; Milwaukee, WI, USA; A Milwaukee Brewers helmet sits on a stool prior to the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Miller Park. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The Milwaukee Brewers have traded a lot of top players in recent years due to budget limitations. This upcoming offseason may be no different.

Brewers general manager Matt Arnold told reporters Thursday that the team would be “open-minded” about a potential trade involving All-Star closer Devin Williams. Williams is entering his final year of team control, which is a point where the Brewers have previously traded the likes of pitcher Corbin Burnes.

Matt Arnold on Devin Williams entering final year of control: "We have to stay open-minded. We're the smallest market in the league, so that's something that's required in this." Said Williams was "unbelievable" in the second half and shouldn't be defined by one pitch in Game 3.

— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) October 10, 2024

“We have to stay open-minded. We’re the smallest market in the league, so that’s something that’s required in this,” Arnold told reporters.

The Brewers have consistently developed good players, as evidenced by playoff appearances in six of the last seven seasons. They also know they cannot pay those players fair market value, which has resulted in trades of Burnes and reliever Josh Hader in recent years. Brewers fans will not like it, but Williams may be the next to go.

Though he missed half the season due to injury, Williams was outstanding in 2024, posting a 1.25 ERA with 38 strikeouts in 21.2 innings. Unfortunately, he may wind up remembered more for the massive home run he gave up in what might prove to be his final Brewers appearance.