MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – The Milwaukee Brewers have reached an agreement with free agent right-handed pitcher Jakob Junis, pending a physical. The one-year deal is worth $7 million and includes a $3 million buyout on a 2025 mutual option, according to sources.
Junis, 31, is coming off a strong season with the San Francisco Giants, where he pitched 86 innings in 40 appearances as a multi-inning reliever. With a 3.87 ERA and a 26.2% strikeout rate, he demonstrated improved performance, largely due to an increase in velocity in his pitches.
In addition to his improved pitching, Junis’ primary pitch, the slider, has been increasingly effective over the past four seasons. Although he has been more effective against right-handed hitters, his performance against left-handed hitters has not been as strong.
The Brewers’ rotation has seen some changes, including the departure of their two co-aces. With potential concerns around the starting pitchers’ performance and injuries, Milwaukee’s reliance on their relief group may increase.
The signing of Junis brings the Brewers’ payroll projection to around $105 million, well below last year’s approximate $119 million mark. The team’s willingness to match last season’s spending level remains unclear.
Ranked by MLBTR as the offseason’s #47 free agent, Junis will have the opportunity to revisit free agency next winter and establish himself as a starter during the upcoming season.
The addition of Junis to the Brewers’ roster adds depth to their pitching staff, and the team may consider further additions to their bullpen and bench as they approach the upcoming season.