Here’s a hard truth for baseball fans: even the most beloved players aren’t immune to the business side of the game. And this is where it gets emotional—Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy openly acknowledges that star pitcher Freddy Peralta could be traded this winter. But here’s where it gets controversial: is it fair for small-market teams like the Brewers to continually part ways with their top talent? Let’s dive in.
During the 2025 winter meetings in Orlando, Florida, Murphy—a two-time National League Manager of the Year—addressed the situation with a mix of humor and philosophical acceptance. He joked about Peralta’s impending wealth, quipping, ‘He could own beachfront property on multiple islands if he wants it.’ Yet, Murphy knows those islands likely won’t be in Wisconsin. Peralta, 29, is entering his final year before free agency, and his name has been swirling in trade rumors. After a stellar 2025 season—leading the NL with 17 wins, a 2.70 ERA, and a fifth-place finish in Cy Young voting—he’s exactly the kind of veteran pitcher teams covet.
But here’s the part most people miss: Murphy doesn’t shy away from the human side of these decisions. ‘I’ve seen every pitch he’s made in the big leagues,’ he said. ‘It’s personal to me. I love the man, and I hope he’s a Brewer.’ Yet, he’s no stranger to this cycle. Murphy previously watched star pitchers Corbin Burnes and Devin Williams leave Milwaukee due to rising salaries—Burnes to the Orioles in 2024 and Williams to the Yankees later that year.
Unlike many managers, Murphy doesn’t sugarcoat the pain of roster turnover. ‘You know the player, you know what he brings, and you know your connection with him,’ he admitted. ‘When he’s not there, you’re like, God, I miss him.’ But he also recognizes the reality of modern baseball: ‘You just turn the page, keep going. That’s part of our world.’
When asked if Milwaukee’s front office can pull off another financial balancing act, Murphy expressed confidence: ‘I think they know what they’re doing. My role is to take whatever guys we have. I hope Freddy is one of them.’
Now, here’s the controversial question: Should small-market teams like the Brewers prioritize financial sustainability over retaining star players? Or is there a way to do both? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
