Billy Eppler’s New Chapter with the Milwaukee Brewers
Billy Eppler, the former general manager of the New York Mets, has embarked on a new journey in his baseball career by joining the Milwaukee Brewers as a special adviser for scouting and baseball operations. This move, reported by SNY, marks a significant comeback for Eppler, who left the Mets under a cloud of controversy. The Brewers, however, see potential in Eppler’s extensive experience and strategic acumen, hoping his insights will bolster their efforts to secure another NL Central title.
The Suspension and Resignation
Eppler’s tenure with the Mets was marred by a disciplinary action from Major League Baseball (MLB). In 2023, an investigation revealed that he had directed the Mets’ staff to fabricate injuries to create open roster spots. This unethical behavior led to his suspension, which concluded after the 2024 World Series. The suspension came as a surprise to many in the baseball community, as Eppler had been a respected figure in the industry. The incident forced him to resign in October 2023, just three days after the Mets’ new president of baseball operations, David Stearns, took office. Stearns, who previously held the same position with the Brewers, had a hand in shaping the organization that Eppler is now joining.
Eppler’s Baseball Background
Before his time with the Mets, Eppler had a rich and varied career in baseball. He began as a minor league infielder before transitioning into a variety of roles within the sport, including scouting and player development. From 2015 to 2020, he served as the general manager of the Los Angeles Angels, where he oversaw numerous key personnel decisions and worked to build a competitive roster. His time with the Angels was marked by both successes and challenges, providing him with a wealth of experience that the Brewers hope to leverage.
A Promising Start and a Struggling Season
The Mets’ performance under Eppler’s leadership was initially impressive. In 2022, the team achieved a 101-61 record and secured an NL wild-card playoff berth. However, the following year saw a significant downturn, with the Mets slumping to a 75-87 record despite starting the season with a hefty $355 million payroll. This disappointing performance, coupled with the ethical violations uncovered by MLB, ultimately led to Eppler’s departure from the organization. Despite the setback, his contributions to the team’s success in 2022 are not easily forgotten.
Eppler’s Return to a Familiar Environment
Eppler’s new role with the Brewers is a return to an environment he knows well. He will be working under Matt Arnold, who was named MLB’s executive of the year in 2022 and has been the Brewers’ president of baseball operations since October of that year. Arnold, who previously served as Stearns’ right-hand man, is keen to integrate Eppler’s expertise into the team’s operations. The Brewers, coming off two consecutive NL Central titles, are looking to maintain their dominance and continue to build a successful and ethical organization.
A Fresh Start and Future Prospects
For Eppler, joining the Brewers represents a fresh start and an opportunity to redeem himself. His past experiences, both the highs and the lows, have undoubtedly shaped him as a baseball executive. The Brewers organization, known for its strong culture and commitment to integrity, is well-positioned to provide the support and environment he needs to thrive once again. As he takes on his new role, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how he adapts and contributes to the Brewers’ ongoing success.
