Contreras agrees to 1-year deal with Crew to avoid arbitration
This browser does not support the video element.
PHOENIX -- Hours before their scheduled arbitration hearing on Thursday, the Brewers and catcher William Contreras reached a one-year deal for 2026.
“I’m happy that it worked out the way it did,” manager Pat Murphy said. “A lot of people put a lot of work in to make that happen. I’m really excited. William will sleep well tonight and get ready to go for spring.”
The deal is for $9.4 million this season, with a $14.5 million club option for 2027 that converts to a mutual option if Contreras finishes in the top four in NL MVP voting, a source told MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand. Terms were not confirmed by the club.
There is also a performance-based bonus structure, as follows:
• MVP: $100,000
• MVP runner up: $75,000
• MVP 3rd place: $50,000
• All-Star selection: $50,000
• Silver Slugger Award: $50,000
• Hank Aaron Award: $50,000
• World Series MVP: $50,000
• Comeback Player of the Year: $50,000
• Gold Glove: $25,000
• LCS MVP: $25,000
This browser does not support the video element.
In his first two years with the Brewers, Contreras won the NL Silver Slugger Award while combining for 40 homers and 170 RBIs.
His offensive numbers dipped a little last season as the 28-year-old played through multiple injuries to his left hand. Contreras still produced a slash line of .260/.355/.399 with 17 homers and 76 RBIs, but the catcher enters camp healthy and Murphy expects even better things this year.
“I think he’ll be better than [his All-Star season in 2024],” said Murphy. “I think he’s got a great year ahead of him.”
Aside from his contribution in the middle of the lineup, Contreras is relied on for his high-energy approach and the sharp edge he brings to the game.
“I love having him on this club and I love what he brings, because it’s no nonsense and it’s right in your face,” Murphy said. “There’s one objective and that’s to get it done, and I love that about him. It’s rare to have that much of that in a player.
“I don’t think I’d call him a throwback, but I’d call him a pitbull. He is ready to go. It’s good to have chains nearby to put on him once in a while, because he’s ready to go.”