On July 28, 2025, the Brewers trade for catcher Danny Jansen just before their first-place battle with the Cubs. See how this move impacts William Contreras.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when you thought the tension couldn't get any higher, the Milwaukee Brewers made a splash. On the very day they're set to begin a monumental, first-place-on-the-line series against the Chicago Cubs, the team is finalizing a trade to bring Wisconsin-born catcher Danny Jansen home from the Tampa Bay Rays. It's a clear signal from the front office: they're all in for the 2025 stretch run.
With both the Brewers and Cubs sitting at 62-43, this week's series at American Family Field isn't just a rivalry game—it's a battle for sole possession of the NL Central.
The Brewers are reportedly sending their No. 24 prospect, infielder Jadher Areinamo, to the Rays in exchange for Jansen. The veteran catcher brings a solid bat, boasting a .703 OPS with 11 home runs and 29 RBIs this season. More importantly, he provides a desperately needed, high-quality option behind the plate. Jansen is under contract for $8.5 million this year and has a $12 million mutual option for 2026, giving the Brewers flexibility beyond this season.
The move for Jansen is a direct response to the team's ongoing catching situation. All-Star starter William Contreras has been courageously playing through a fractured finger suffered last season, but the team knows that's not a sustainable plan for a deep playoff run. The acquisition of Jansen allows manager Pat Murphy to give Contreras more days off from catching duties, potentially using his potent bat in the designated hitter spot, all while minimizing the defensive drop-off.
As if the trade news wasn't enough, tonight marks the beginning of arguably the most important series of the season. The Brewers and Cubs enter the three-game set at American Family Field with identical 62-43 records. The Cubs come to town with a dangerous lineup featuring sluggers like Michael Busch (.275 AVG, 20 HR) and Pete Crow-Armstrong (.269 AVG, 27 HR). The Brewers' consistent summer performance, reflected in their 'Summer Score' of 65, will be put to the ultimate test.
While the focus is clearly on winning now, the long-term health of the organization remains incredibly strong. Even after graduating superstar Jackson Chourio to the majors, the Brewers' farm system has vaulted into the top 10 of MLB rankings. Praised for its impressive infield depth and success in international scouting, the pipeline continues to churn out talent.
The message from Milwaukee is loud and clear: this team is built to win now and for years to come. The Jansen trade shores up a critical weakness for the immediate pennant race, the outcome of which may be heavily influenced by this week's showdown with the Cubs. With a fortified roster, a top-tier farm system, and first place on the line, it's a thrilling time to be a Brewers fan. Buckle up for a massive week at American Family Field.
