Jose Quintana Joins the Milwaukee Brewers
Veteran left-handed pitcher Jose Quintana is set to join the Milwaukee Brewers on a one-year, $4.25 million deal, with the potential for an additional $1 million in bonuses, according to a source familiar with the negotiations. This announcement, although not yet officially made, marks a significant addition to the Brewers’ pitching staff. Quintana, who will be 36 years old at the start of the 2025 season, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to a team that is eager to defend its NL Central title.
Quintana’s Dynamic 2024 Season
Quintana’s 2024 season was a testament to his resilience and skill on the mound. He finished the year with a 10-10 record and a respectable 3.75 ERA over 31 starts for the New York Mets. His ability to strike out batters (135 strikeouts) while managing his walks (63) demonstrated his command and control. In his last six regular-season starts, Quintana was particularly dominant, giving up just four runs (three earned) over 36 1/3 innings. This consistency and effectiveness made him a valuable asset for the Mets, especially in high-pressure situations.
Stellar Postseason Performance
Quintana’s contributions extended beyond the regular season as he played a crucial role in the Mets’ playoff run. In the decisive game of the NL Wild Card Series against the Brewers, he pitched six shutout innings, allowing the Mets to secure a 4-2 victory. Despite not receiving a decision, his performance was instrumental in the Mets’ success. Overall, Quintana made three postseason starts, allowing only six runs (five earned) over 14 1/3 innings. This postseason experience and success will be invaluable to the Brewers as they aim to navigate a competitive NL Central division.
A Boost to the Brewers’ Rotation
The Brewers are in need of rotation depth, especially with several key players recovering from injuries. The addition of Quintana will bolster a rotation that includes right-handers Freddy Peralta, Tobias Myers, and Aaron Civale. The team also recently acquired left-hander Nestor Cortes in a trade that sent two-time NL reliever of the year Devin Williams to the New York Yankees. Two-time All-Star Brandon Woodruff, who missed the entire 2024 season due to shoulder surgery, and Robert Gasser, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery, will not be available at the start of the 2025 season. The Brewers’ pitching staff has already faced another setback with left-hander Aaron Ashby, a potential rotation candidate, leaving a game with an oblique issue that will require an MRI.
Quintana’s Journey Through the NL Central
Quintana’s career has taken him to several teams, and his arrival in Milwaukee means he will have pitched for every team in the NL Central. He spent four years with the Chicago Cubs (2017-2020) and had stints with the Pittsburgh Pirates and St. Louis Cardinals in 2022. His familiarity with the division and the teams he will face will be a significant advantage for the Brewers. Over his 12-year career, Quintana has compiled a 102-103 record with a 3.74 ERA in 359 appearances, including 333 starts. He has also pitched for the Chicago White Sox (2012-2017), Los Angeles Angels (2021), San Francisco Giants (2021), and Mets (2023-2024). His selection to the All-Star Game in 2016 further underscores his status as a reliable and high-performing pitcher.
A New Chapter in Milwaukee
As Quintana prepares to make his Brewers debut, the team is optimistic about the impact he will have on their pursuit of another NL Central title. His experience, consistency, and postseason success make him a vital addition to a rotation that is navigating several transitions and injuries. Quintana’s journey through the NL Central and his proven ability to perform under pressure will be significant assets for the Brewers as they aim to maintain their dominance in the division. With a mix of veteran leadership and young talent, the Brewers are poised to be a formidable force in the 2025 season.
