The Milwaukee Brewers announced that they are bringing back a player who previously played first base for them. Last year, this player spent the entire season at the MLB level, but in 2025 he is signing on a minor league deal and will have to earn his way back onto the 40-man roster.
Milwaukee Brewers bring back a familiar first baseman on a minor league deal
The Brewers announced that Jake Bauers is returning to the team on a minor league deal. He spent all of 2024 on Milwaukee’s big league roster where he slashed .199/.301/.361 with 12 home runs, 43 RBI, and 13 stolen bases. Additionally, Bauers was responsible for a clutch go-ahead pinch hit home run during the Wild Card Series against the New York Mets.
Jake Bauers does not qualify as an article XX(B) free agent
Under the most recent collective bargaining agreement (CBA), article XX(B) free agents are provided with three opt out opportunities at various points during spring training and the regular season. Jake Bauers does not hit the six years of service time qualification as he has just four years of MLB service time. This means that unless Bauers asks to be released, and the Brewers grant it, he could potentially spend all of 2025 in Milwaukee’s farm system and not pursue other opportunities until seasons end.
What role might Jake Bauers have with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2025?
Pending injury or other transactions, the Brewers are entering 2025 with Rhys Hosksins as the primary first baseman and in all likelihood prospect Tyler Black seeing an expanded role. Should Jake Bauers be called upon, a backup role would be likely, but he also makes a good pinch hit option off the bench.
Related: “I don’t hate it” Brewers fans react to Jake Bauers signing
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