Rhys Hoskins’ warpath this spring giving Brewers hope for contract redemption

When the Milwaukee Brewers signed Rhys Hoskins ahead of the 2024 season, they envisioned a power-hitting presence filling a hole at first base, a much-needed addition to their lineup. However, the version of Hoskins they received was far from the slugger who had helped push the Philadelphia Phillies to the World Series just two years prior.

Instead, inconsistency plagued him last season. Hoskins flashed his trademark power at times, however his overall performance left much to be desired. He finished the year with a .214/.303/.462 slash line and a 98 OPS+, the lowest offensive production of his career. For some, those numbers might be acceptable, but for Hoskins, a player who thrives at being a force in the middle of the lineup, it was a frustrating step backward.

His struggles weren’t entirely unexpected. Hoskins was returning from a torn ACL that wiped out his entire 2023 season, leaving him without an inning of competitive baseball for over a year. The effects of the injury were evident. Timing issues at the plate, prolonged slumps, and a lack of rhythm defined his 2024 campaign.

Despite the disappointment, he naturally exercised his $18 million player option for the 2025 season and bet on himself rather than test the open market. A decision that sparked immediate speculation, would the Brewers look to trade him to shed payroll, or would they hold out hope for a bounce-back season?

Has Rhys Hoskins finally found his groove with the Brewers?

2025 is a new year, and Hoskins is already playing like a man possessed and one that looks locked in and ready to re-establish himself as one of baseball’s premier power hitters. In just eight games, he’s already smashed five home runs, going 7-20 with six RBI. He’s also drawn five walks, leading to an impressive .350/.480/1.100 slash line. While it’s unrealistic to expect this level of production over a full season, it’s an undeniable sign that Hoskins is healthy, confident, and ready to turn the page on 2024.

Hoskins contract with the Brewers includes a mutual option for 2026 with a $4 million buyout, leading many to believe that Hoskins is destined for free agency after this season. However, if he continues this resurgence into the regular season, Milwaukee may have a difficult decision on its hands. The version of Hoskins they originally signed, the one capable of mashing 30-plus home runs and anchoring a lineup, could be too valuable to let go.

With the Brewers already navigating a transition year after the departure of shortstop Willy Adames, they need offensive stability. A productive Hoskins could not only provide that stability but also help bridge the gap as the organization continues to develop its young core.

For now, the signs point to 2025 being a redemption year for Hoskins. He has the motivation to reestablish himself as a feared hitter in the lineup. If this spring is any indication, the Brewers might just get exactly what they paid for, only a year later than expected.

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