Why Big Market Teams Should Want Brandon Woodruff

Why Big Market Teams Should Want Brandon Woodruff

Don’t ask me why the Brewers non-tendered Brandon Woodruff. It doesn’t make a lick of sense. Milwaukee just hired Matt Klentak and his brain is made up of a bag of rocks so maybe it was his idea. Today I just want to have a quick chat about why big market teams really need to take advantage of this unforeseen circumstance.

Yes, I’m well aware of the fact that Woodruff is likely to miss the entire 2024 MLB Season. Yes, I’m fully aware that Woodruff was projected to earn $11.6 million via arbitration. Yes, I’m fully aware Woodruff was set to become a free agent after the 2024 MLB Season. It doesn’t change the fact that Milwaukee handled this poorly.

A: Milwaukee could have taken his arb case to a hearing to get his salary lowered. Had that number been cut to around $7 million, there would have been a taker if Woodruff was able to pitch in the postseason for someone.

B: Milwaukee punted on the ability to offer Woodruff a qualifying offer to receive draft pick compensation the following year. All because they couldn’t pay a dinky salary to a pitcher who is already really good.

Boston Red Sox: 2023 MLB Offseason Guide

Woodruff, 30, is now in such an enviable position. He can pick his poison on which contender he wants to land with and rehab with. Basically spend a year on the shelf while being paid so that he can reward the club the following year. What Milwaukee refused to do is what the big boy teams should be willing to do.

Teams basically need to structure this contract the same way as the Red Sox did with James Paxton. You’re paying dead money up front but you’re getting a stud at a discount the following year. Plus, that team would be given the option of the qualifying offer the following season after that.

Teams with resources that need pitching should be all over this. We’re talking about a guy that has a career 3.10 ERA but has been nothing but dominant over the last four years. This is what big market teams are supposed to do. Flex their dollars for high rewards down the line. It’s an opportunity contenders shouldn’t pass on.

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