Brewers Weigh Trading All-Star Pitchers Amid Playoff Push

The Milwaukee Brewers, currently competitive in the National League Central and Wild Card race, face speculation about trading star starting pitcher Freddy Peralta ahead of the 2025 MLB trade deadline. Despite Peralta's strong performance this season with a 2.90 ERA and 8-4 record, the Brewers might consider trading him or José Quintana due to a surplus of starting pitching and because Peralta is a free agent after the season. However, there is significant resistance to trading Peralta within the organization and fanbase, especially after backlash from the 2022 trade of elite closer Josh Hader, with owner Mark Attanasio reportedly reluctant to authorize such a move. The St. Louis Cardinals have been linked to Peralta in a rare in-division trade, which would be surprising given both teams are contending and close in the standings, but the Cardinals could pursue him as a short-term boost despite concerns about mortgaging the future. Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox might regret trading young pitcher Quinn Priester to the Brewers earlier in the year, as Priester has emerged as a rising star with strong recent performances, highlighting Milwaukee's ability to develop talent. Overall, the Brewers' decision on Peralta will weigh their playoff aspirations against maintaining fan and clubhouse support, with the Cardinals and other teams monitoring the situation closely.