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
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.”