Brewers Rumors: NL Central rival makes shocking decision that may alter team’s plans

The Milwaukee Brewers got back on track on Wednesday after a thrilling Game 2 win over the Mets, but one can't ignore the fact that the offseason is coming very soon no matter how far the Brewers get this postseason. This offseason is going to be a pivotal one with the likely loss of Willy Adames in free agency as well as significant turnover on the pitching staff. At the top of the Brewers' wish list this offseason is almost certainly a power bat.

Losing Adames is going to be a significant blow to a Milwaukee offense that can be a bit sketchy at times. However, replacing his production during the offseason is easier said than done as the upcoming free agent class isn't exactly overflowing with impact bats that would be in the Brewers' price range. Sorry Brewers fans, but you probably shouldn't hope for a Juan Soto signing.

However, one name that has been connected to the Brewers now looks much more likely to be available this offseason. According to reports, the Cardinals will indeed let Paul Goldschmidt leave in free agency and that move could define the Brewers' impending offseason.

Cardinals' decision to let Paul Goldschmidt walk will force the Brewers' hand this offseason

The Brewers' curious interest in Goldschmidt has already been reported on, but those rumors are likely going to intensify now that it looks like Goldy will be available for sure. There is no denying Goldschmidt's resume as he won an MVP in 2022 and was one of the most feared hitters in baseball for at least a decade. However, Father Time seems to have caught up with him the last couple of years and his .716 OPS in 2024 was the lowest of his career by a wide margin.

With Rhys Hopkins seemingly likely to exercise his player option for 2025, many Brewers fans are wondering why Milwaukee is interested in a declining Goldschmidt at all. However, one way this could work is by using the signing to fill their designated hitter spot. Brewers DHs didn't exactly light the world on fire this season and giving Goldschmidt (or Hopkins for that matter) playing time there could give their bats a boost.

What we don't know is how big Goldschmidt's contract demands will be and how far the Brewers are willing to go here. The recent Diamond Sports court filing has put the Brewers' future TV revenues very much in doubt and for a team that already runs a tight payroll, anything more than a modest bet on Goldschmidt may be unwise especially at this stage of his career.

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