Brewers' Danny Jansen trade all but confirms this top prospect’s 2025 fate

The Milwaukee Brewers continue to prove why they’re one of the most forward-thinking front offices in baseball. In yet another quietly brilliant move, they secured catcher Danny Jansen from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for infield prospect Jadher Areinamo, an acquisition that not only shores up their big league depth but also sends a clear message about the near future of one of the organization’s most exciting prospects.

Jansen arrives as a savvy veteran presence, a proven offensive contributor behind the plate who brings postseason experience and a reliable bat. In a corresponding but expected move, the Brewers designated Eric Haase for assignment, officially clearing the backup catcher role for Jansen.

Jeferson Quero's MLB debut likely delayed until 2026 after Danny Jansen trade

On the surface, it’s a smart and efficient upgrade. But if you read between the lines, it becomes even more telling: the Jansen deal all but cements Jeferson Quero’s fate for the 2025 season.

Once believed to be a candidate for a late-season call-up, as a backup catcher and maybe even a designated hitter — the 22-year-old Quero is now all but officially blocked. Any hopes of a September debut took a hit this week when Quero was placed on the injured list with a mild left shoulder sprain, sidelining him for 3-to-4 weeks. According to Todd Rosiak of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the injury occurred while Quero attempted to tag out a baserunner during a game earlier in the week.

The timing of both the trade and the injury couldn’t be more symbolic. Whether by design or coincidence, the Brewers have to hit pause on the Quero timeline.

That’s not a knock on Quero, who remains one of the most promising young catchers in the game. In 30 games with Triple-A Nashville, he’s posted a respectable .259/.333/.362 slash line with two home runs, 18 RBIs, and just 15 strikeouts in 129 plate appearances, showcasing an advanced plate approach. While the power numbers haven’t quite popped yet, his defensive reputation remains stellar. He’s a smooth, instinctual presence behind the plate, with glovework that will eventually earn him a big-league job.

But for now, it’s clear: the Brewers are in no rush. With William Contreras entrenched as the everyday catcher and Jansen now backing him up, the club has essentially closed the door on any immediate need at the position. Add in Quero’s current injury, and it’s safe to say Brewers fans shouldn’t expect to see him in Milwaukee until sometime in 2026.