Brewers Leave Contreras Trade Questions Open After World Series Win

Published November 12, 2026. Fresh off their first World Series title, the Milwaukee Brewers face offseason questions about whether to keep star catcher William Contreras or trade him before he reaches free agency. General manager Matt Arnold did not dismiss the trade speculation when asked about it on Wednesday, saying Contreras is important to the team.

The 28-year-old joined Milwaukee in a three-team deal with Atlanta before the 2023 season. He is a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger, and was named World Series MVP after helping the Brewers win the championship. In 2026, he hit .270 with 18 home runs and 94 runs batted in.

Milwaukee exercised Contreras’ $15.5 million option for next season. He has one arbitration-eligible season left before he can become a free agent. The Brewers have previously traded prominent players before they reached free agency, including Freddy Peralta, Corbin Burnes and Devin Williams.

MLB Network analyst Jon Morosi said he considers it more likely than not that Contreras will still be with Milwaukee to start 2027, while leaving open the possibility of a deal. He also said trading a player with one season remaining is more complicated in the current labor environment.

The Brewers’ decision remains unresolved, and speculation is expected to continue through the offseason. The team could keep Contreras or trade him before the season begins.