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Jake Bauers’ $23.15 million decision could shape Brewers’ offseason plans
- Story byWI Sports Heroics
- Jake Bauers’ $23.15 million decision could shape Brewers’ offseason plans
Jake Bauers' next move with the Milwaukee Brewers is still uncertain as he considers whether to accept a qualifying offer after delivering the best season of his career and helping the franchise capture its first World Series title.
Bauers delivered a career-best campaign in 2026, batting .266 with 26 homers, 86 RBIs and an .874 OPS. His postseason contributions were equally notable, earning him NLCS MVP recognition as Milwaukee swept the Los Angeles Dodgers in four games. After making $2.7 million this season, he now has a major financial choice to consider. His ability to handle both first base and the outfield also gives the Brewers added flexibility as they plan their roster for next year.
Foul Territory posted a video on social media Thursday, showing The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal breaking down Milwaukee's choices during the "Grillin' Ken" segment on "Fair Territory."
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Will Jake Bauers stay with the Brewers?
Brewers first baseman Jake Bauers (9) greets fans holding the Commissioners Trophy during the World Series parade on the intersection E Mason St and N Jackson St in Milwaukee, on Oct. 30, 2026.
"The Milwaukee Brewers could use a first baseman. I don't know that they want to pay Jake Bauers 23.15 million, but maybe you work out a longer deal at a lower average salary."
Bauers is among eight players who received qualifying offers ahead of Monday's deadline. He has until November 17 at 4 p.m. ET, or 1 p.m. PT, to decide whether to take the one-year deal worth $23.15 million. The offer sets a new MLB record, with its value determined by the average salary of the league's 125 highest-paid players. If Bauers accepts, he would earn $20.45 million more than he did in 2026.
Oct 15, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Brewers first baseman Jake Bauers (9) doubles during the fourth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game four of the NLCS for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Uniqlo Field at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
If the 31-year-old turns down the offer, he can explore the open market and negotiate with other teams, while still leaving the door open for a return to Milwaukee under a different contract. Should he sign with another club before the next amateur draft, the Brewers would receive a compensatory draft selection.
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Bauers had yet to reveal his decision as of Thursday, leaving both his next contract and where he will play next season uncertain.
More Brewers news from Wisconsin Sports Heroics
Apr 22, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Brewers right fielder Sal Frelick (10) glove and hat sit on the Brewers dugout steps covered in infield dirt during their game against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images
