The Milwaukee Brewers head into their March 30, 2025 matchup against the New York Yankees in the midst of a transitional phase following a busy and eventful offseason. Despite winning the National League Central in 2024, the Brewers opted to retool the roster and move on from several key contributors, signaling a shift toward a new competitive identity. The departure of cornerstone shortstop Willy Adames and elite closer Devin Williams—who was traded to the very team they face in this series—marked significant changes. In exchange for Williams, the Brewers received left-handed starter Nestor Cortes from the Yankees, a move that reflects their intent to bolster the rotation while shifting bullpen responsibilities to a committee-based approach. Sunday’s game against New York is not only the conclusion of a three-game set but also a measuring stick for how Milwaukee’s revamped squad stacks up against a powerful American League contender. Under new manager Pat Murphy, the Brewers are blending veterans with an infusion of younger talent, hoping to find consistent contributions across the lineup and pitching staff. Offensively, Milwaukee still retains Christian Yelich, who continues to be a steady presence in the lineup, even if his MVP-caliber days are behind him. The spotlight has increasingly turned toward William Contreras, the catcher whose bat and defensive growth have made him a centerpiece of the new-look team. Contreras is expected to build on his All-Star 2024 season and provide offensive firepower in the middle of the order. Additionally, young outfielders like Garrett Mitchell and Sal Frelick are expected to take on expanded roles, adding speed and athleticism to the outfield and lineup. The rotation has undergone significant change, now headlined by Freddy Peralta and bolstered by the arrival of Nestor Cortes.

While Corbin Burnes was traded prior to 2024, Peralta has embraced his role as staff ace, showing improved command and durability. Cortes brings a different style—relying on deception, movement, and changing speeds rather than overpowering velocity—which offers a unique contrast and can be especially effective in large parks or against aggressive lineups. The bullpen, now without Devin Williams, features a mix of arms like Abner Uribe and Joel Payamps, and though there is still uncertainty about who will handle ninth-inning duties, the Brewers have the makings of a competent relief corps. Defensively, the Brewers remain strong up the middle, with Joey Ortiz and Brice Turang expected to take on key infield responsibilities. Turang, in particular, has shown flashes of Gold Glove-caliber defense at second base and will be pivotal in turning double plays and supporting a ground-ball-heavy pitching staff. Milwaukee’s outfield defense is also a strength, with rangy and athletic players who can cover gaps effectively. Facing the Yankees on the road, especially at Yankee Stadium after New York’s 20-run outburst in Game 2, is no easy task. However, Milwaukee’s emphasis on pitching depth, defensive fundamentals, and opportunistic offense gives them a chance to respond. The Brewers have covered the spread in five of their last seven road games and could be a sneaky good underdog play if they get solid innings from their starter and timely hitting. While not favored, this game provides the Brewers with an early-season opportunity to test their new identity against one of baseball’s powerhouses.