The Milwaukee Brewers and catcher Gary Sanchez have reached an agreement on a one-year contract worth $7 million. However, the team has not made an official announcement regarding the signing. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Brewers had concerns about Sanchez’s wrist, which he fractured last season. As a result, the financial terms of the contract are likely to be adjusted. While Sanchez will still have the opportunity to earn up to $7 million, part of it will depend on the condition of his wrist. This suggests that the new contract will likely include a lower base salary and performance-based incentives.
Despite the potential changes to the financial terms, it seems that the concerns were not significant enough to derail the deal entirely. Additionally, since Sanchez was not expected to be the team’s primary catcher, his role is unlikely to change significantly. Instead, he will serve as the primary backup to All-Star William Contreras and may also see playing time as a designated hitter.
The Brewers may decide to carry three catchers on their roster this season. They previously signed Eric Haase to a major league contract, although it is a split contract. However, Haase does not have any minor league options left, so he would only be sent to the minors if he clears waivers. Rosenthal reports that the Brewers intend to keep Haase, but it is possible that they are confident he will clear waivers and remain with the team as depth at the upper level.
Sanchez is expected to be in the lineup against left-handed pitchers as often as possible. He had success against lefties in 2023, batting .267 with a .680 slugging percentage. Throughout his career, Sanchez has struggled against left-handed pitching, hitting just .215. However, he has managed to reach base at a .314 clip and slug .484 against them. Using Sanchez as a designated hitter against lefties would provide an opportunity to rest some of the team’s left-handed hitting options such as Christian Yelich, Garrett Mitchell, Sal Frelick, or Jake Bauers.
The specific details of the revised contract have not been disclosed yet. Prior to the adjustment, the Brewers were projected to have a payroll of $122 million with Sanchez earning his full $7 million guarantee. This was already $10 million less than their franchise record. By reducing Sanchez’s guarantee, the team will have more financial flexibility. However, the cost of Brandon Woodruff’s new two-year deal, which is expected to be backloaded due to his shoulder surgery, is still unknown.
Regardless of how the financials play out, the Brewers are likely to have a payroll for the 2024 season that is lower than their previous franchise high set in 2022. This could provide room for additional roster additions. Considering the team’s recent trade of Corbin Burnes and their general manager’s openness to further conversations, it is possible that more changes to the payroll and roster could occur.
According to the Source mlbtraderumors.com