Latest On Corbin Burnes
The Milwaukee Brewers are considering a potential trade involving right-hander Corbin Burnes, but it is unclear if a deal will be made. The Brewers have engaged with other teams about Burnes, but rival clubs believe he is likely to stay in Milwaukee. The Brewers are in a difficult position, as trading Burnes would weaken their strong rotation, but holding onto him carries the risk of injury and losing him for nothing in free agency. Burnes is projected to have a salary of $15.1MM next year and has been connected to teams like the Dodgers, Cubs, and Orioles.
The Dilemma for the Brewers
The Brewers, as the reigning division champions, are in a strong position to compete in 2024. However, the loss of Brandon Woodruff to injury and non-tendering him has weakened their rotation. Trading Burnes would further undermine their pitching strength.
On the other hand, Burnes is entering his final season of arbitration control and an extension is off the table. The Brewers could potentially hold onto him and offer a qualifying offer at the end of 2024, but trading him now could yield better returns. There's also the risk of injury, as seen with Woodruff, which could impact their future plans.
The Brewers must carefully weigh these factors to determine what is best for the club in the upcoming season and in the long term.
Interest in Corbin Burnes
If Burnes becomes available, he would generate significant interest from teams in need of starting pitching. The demand for pitching this offseason is high, and while some teams can pursue marquee free agents, others may be limited by payroll concerns. Burnes, with an arbitration salary of $15.1MM, offers great value for his quality.
In the past four seasons, Burnes has maintained an impressive 2.86 ERA over 622 1/3 innings. He has a strikeout rate of 30.9%, a walk rate of 7.1%, and a ground ball rate of 46.4%. His 17.9 wins above replacement rank him second among all pitchers in the league, only behind Zack Wheeler.
While the Dodgers, Cubs, and Orioles have been linked to Burnes in rumors, other clubs are likely to show interest as well. Potential trade partners would need to assess what they can offer in return for Burnes.
No Clear Resolution Yet
The latest reports do not provide much clarity on whether a trade involving Burnes will materialize. The Brewers are likely to engage in discussions with multiple teams to evaluate the best possible offers. The club has needs in the infield and rotation, and losing Burnes would increase the urgency to address the pitching situation.
For now, it remains uncertain if Burnes will be wearing a different uniform in the upcoming season. The Brewers will carefully consider their options before making a decision that aligns with their goals for 2024 and beyond.
