Brandon Woodruff Accepts Qualifying Offer, Will Return to Brewers in 2026

The Milwaukee Brewers enter the offseason facing pivotal decisions about the future of their roster after a promising regular season ended in disappointment. The team was swept by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series, abruptly halting a campaign that had raised hopes for a deep postseason run.

One of the most closely watched questions involved starting pitcher Brandon Woodruff, who returned from significant shoulder surgery that caused him to miss the entire 2024 season and much of 2025. Woodruff’s performance after his rehab had been closely scrutinized, as the team considered whether to retain the ace or allow him to test free agency.

On Tuesday, sources confirmed that Woodruff has chosen to accept the Brewers’ qualifying offer, ensuring he will be part of Milwaukee’s rotation in 2026, according to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. The move provides clarity for the team as it begins offseason planning.

Earlier reports from ESPN’s Jeff Passan had suggested that if Woodruff had elected free agency, teams such as the Atlanta Braves could have been potential suitors. With him now returning, the Brewers can focus on supplementing their roster in other areas to remain competitive in the National League.

1. Woodruff’s Return from Surgery

Woodruff’s comeback from shoulder surgery was highly anticipated and closely monitored by both fans and analysts. Despite missing over a season, the right-hander returned to form in 2025, displaying elite strikeout ability even with a slightly reduced fastball velocity. To compensate for the drop in speed, Woodruff added a cutter to his repertoire, allowing him to maintain effectiveness against opposing hitters. Observers praised his ability to adapt while remaining a dominant force in the Brewers’ rotation. His successful return underscores his resilience and importance to the franchise. Woodruff has long been considered a cornerstone of Milwaukee’s pitching staff, and his health and performance are central to the team’s aspirations moving forward. The Brewers’ decision to retain Woodruff with a one-year, $22.5 million qualifying offer demonstrates confidence that he can continue to provide top-of-the-rotation stability while the team looks to strengthen around him.

2. Free Agency Speculation and Offseason Context

Before accepting the qualifying offer, Woodruff was the subject of considerable speculation regarding potential landing spots in free agency. Teams like the Atlanta Braves were mentioned as potential suitors, reflecting his high value on the open market. His decision to remain in Milwaukee provides immediate stability, removing uncertainty from the Brewers’ offseason plans. With the ace back in the fold, the front office can now pivot to addressing other roster needs to bolster both offense and pitching depth. The qualifying offer acceptance also reflects a mutual benefit: Woodruff gains a guaranteed salary while the Brewers retain their top starter without risking a bidding war in free agency. This one-year deal leaves open the possibility of a longer-term contract in the future, depending on performance. For Milwaukee, retaining Woodruff is an early positive note in an offseason that will likely include further strategic moves as the team seeks to improve upon its 2025 performance.

3. Looking Ahead to 2026

With spring training scheduled for February, the Brewers can now begin preparations with a clear plan for their starting rotation. Woodruff’s presence provides leadership and consistency that will be crucial for a team aiming to advance beyond the NLCS. Milwaukee will likely explore complementary roster adjustments, including depth additions and potential upgrades to both offense and bullpen. The return of Woodruff allows management to prioritize these moves without having to replace a cornerstone starter. Fans can anticipate a renewed focus on contention, with a healthy rotation anchored by Woodruff at the forefront. His performance next season will be critical in determining the team’s ability to contend for another playoff run. The decision also sets a tone for the offseason, signaling that Milwaukee is committed to keeping core talent while making targeted improvements to support postseason ambitions.