Milwaukee Brewers Reflect on Impactful Trades Amid Playoff Push

Seventeen years ago, the Milwaukee Brewers made a franchise-altering trade to acquire Hall of Fame pitcher CC Sabathia, who helped lead the team to its first postseason appearance in 26 years with an outstanding 11-2 record and a 1.65 ERA during his short stint in 2008. In 2025, the Brewers continue to be strong contenders under Manager of the Year Pat Murphy, holding a 50-40 record and remaining in the playoff hunt, with analysts suggesting they are one big bat away from being legitimate World Series contenders. Despite this success, the Brewers may engage in significant trade activity at the MLB deadline, particularly considering the possibility of trading star pitcher Freddy Peralta to strengthen other areas like the infield. Historically, the Brewers have been frugal but effective in maintaining playoff success through savvy trades and development, as demonstrated by the impact of past acquisitions such as Caleb Durbin. Interestingly, the Brewers nearly completed a blockbuster trade for Cy Young winner Felix Hernandez in the late 2000s, a deal that fell through but would have dramatically altered the team's trajectory. These moments underscore the franchise's ongoing evolution and aggressive pursuit of success in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.