In a surprising turn of events, Jesse Winker, the talented yet polarizing outfielder and designated hitter, is returning to the Milwaukee Brewers for the 2024 MLB season. The move comes after a turbulent 2023 campaign, where Winker’s performance did not meet expectations, leading to his departure from the team. Now, with a new contract in hand and renewed determination, Winker is looking to make the most of his second chance in Milwaukee.
A Rollercoaster 2023 Season
Jesse Winker’s 2023 season was marked by inconsistency and struggle. After being acquired by the Brewers in a trade with the Seattle Mariners, expectations were high for the former All-Star. Winker had shown flashes of brilliance in previous seasons, particularly during his time with the Cincinnati Reds, where he earned an All-Star nod in 2021. However, his 2023 campaign with Milwaukee was far from stellar.
Plagued by injuries and a lack of rhythm at the plate, Winker’s batting average hovered below .220 for much of the season. His power numbers, which had been a defining aspect of his game in Cincinnati, were noticeably absent, with Winker hitting just a handful of home runs. The Brewers, a team built around pitching and timely hitting, struggled to integrate Winker into their offense, leading to his role being reduced as the season wore on.
By the end of the 2023 season, it seemed likely that Winker and the Brewers would part ways. His name frequently came up in trade rumors, and there was speculation that the Brewers would not extend his contract. When the season concluded, Winker left the team, and many assumed that his time in Milwaukee had come to an end.
The Unexpected Return
Fast forward to the 2024 offseason, and the narrative surrounding Jesse Winker has taken a surprising twist. In early January, reports emerged that Winker and the Brewers had rekindled discussions, leading to a one-year, incentive-laden deal that would bring the slugger back to Milwaukee. The contract, valued at $5 million with the potential for additional bonuses, represents a low-risk, high-reward gamble for the Brewers.
“I’m excited to come back to Milwaukee,” Winker said in a statement following the announcement of his return. “Last year didn’t go the way I wanted it to, but I’ve spent the offseason working hard and making adjustments. I believe I can contribute to this team in a big way, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to do so.”
For Winker, the return to Milwaukee represents a chance at redemption. The Brewers’ front office, led by general manager Matt Arnold, clearly believes that the 30-year-old still has untapped potential. “We know Jesse didn’t have the season he hoped for in 2023, but we also know what he’s capable of when he’s healthy and locked in,” Arnold said during a press conference. “We believe in his talent, and we’re excited to give him another opportunity to show what he can do.”
What Winker Brings to the Brewers in 2024
At his best, Jesse Winker is a dynamic hitter with a keen eye for the strike zone and the ability to drive the ball to all fields. His left-handed bat provides balance to a Brewers lineup that features several right-handed power hitters, including Willy Adames and William Contreras. Winker’s plate discipline, which saw him post an on-base percentage of .388 during his All-Star season in 2021, could make him a valuable asset at the top or middle of the Brewers’ lineup.
While his 2023 struggles are well-documented, Winker’s underlying metrics suggest that he was a bit unlucky at the plate. His hard-hit rate and exit velocity were still above league average, indicating that he was making solid contact but not getting the results he wanted. If Winker can stay healthy and find his rhythm early in the 2024 season, he could provide the Brewers with a much-needed offensive spark.
Defensively, Winker’s limitations in the outfield are well-known, but the Brewers plan to use him primarily as a designated hitter, minimizing his exposure in the field. This role allows Winker to focus on his offensive game while preserving his body for the long grind of the season.
A Second Chance for Both Sides
For the Brewers, bringing back Jesse Winker is a calculated risk. After narrowly missing the playoffs in 2023, Milwaukee is eager to retool and make another push for a National League Central title. The team’s strong pitching staff, led by Corbin Burnes and Freddy Peralta, gives them a solid foundation, but the offense will need to improve if they hope to compete with teams like the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs.
Winker’s return could provide the offensive boost they need. If he can return to his All-Star form, he could be one of the steals of the offseason. If not, the Brewers have the flexibility to move on without significant financial repercussions.
For Winker, this is a make-or-break moment in his career. After a disappointing 2023 season, he knows that his time to prove himself as a reliable major league hitter is running out. The pressure will be on, but Winker has expressed confidence that he is up to the challenge.
“I’ve learned a lot over the past year,” Winker said. “I’m ready to show the fans, my teammates, and myself what I’m really capable of.”
As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Jesse Winker as he embarks on his second stint with the Milwaukee Brewers. Whether he can capitalize on this opportunity and reignite his career remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Winker’s return adds an intriguing layer to the Brewers’ 2024 campaign.
