The Milwaukee Brewers still have some work to do this offseason as they get closer and closer to 2025 Spring Training. Specifically, they need to continue to restock their pitching depth. So far, Colin Rea has been non-tendered, Joe Ross signed with the Philadelphia Phillies, Frankie Montas signed with the New York Mets, and Bryse Wilson signed with the Chicago White Sox.
While the Brewers have added some pitching this offseason, highlighted by the acquisition of Nestor Cortes in the Devin Williams trade, their starting rotation still remains unclear. For this reason, they may look into signing one of their long-time division rivals who saw some incredible success down the stretch last season.
The Milwaukee Brewers Could Sign Former Reds Pitcher Michael Lorenzen
In a recent article posted by Sports Illustrated, Patrick McAvoy suggests that the Brewers look into signing former Cincinnati Reds pitcher Michael Lorenzen, who is expected to cost $15 million on a one-year deal in free agency:
“If the Brewers want to add more talent, they should look to bring in a veteran starting pitcher to help bolster the rotation. One underrated player the club should target is one-time All-Star Michael Lorenzen.”
In seven years with the Reds, mostly as a reliever, Lorenzen was 23-23 with a 4.07 ERA and 1.37 WHIP. However, since he left Cincinnati, he has primarily been used as a starting pitcher, though he has pitched for five different teams over the last three years.
In 2022, Lorenzen was 8-6 with a 4.24 ERA in 18 starts with the Los Angeles Angels. The following year, he was named to the American League All-Star team, but finished the season 9-9 with a 4.18 ERA and 1.21 WHIP as he split time with the Detroit Tigers and Philadelphia Phillies.
Last season, Lorenzen was 7-6 with a 3.31 ERA and 1.24 WHIP in 26 games (24 starts) split between the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals. It was his time with the Royals, specifically, they may make the Brewers interested.
After being traded to Kansas City at the trade deadline, Lorenzen went 2-0 with a sparkling 1.57 ERA and 1.08 WHIP in seven games (six starts). His addition to the Royals roster helped the team clinch a postseason berth, though they eventually fell to the New York Yankees in the ALDS.
Lorenzen has appeared in six playoff games in his career, always as a reliever. He has a 1.17 ERA in those appearances.
$15 million, though, may be a bit too high of a price for the Brewers. However, if Lorenzen continues to go unsigned as Spring Training draws closer, he may lower his asking price.
Should that happen, he would be a great fit for Milwaukee, either as a starter or reliever. His postseason experience would be an added bonus as well.
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