What happened: The Milwaukee Brewers exercised their $15.5 million club option on catcher William Contreras for the 2027 season. Milwaukee also declined mutual options with catcher Gary Sanchez and pitchers Antonio Senzatela and Dustin May.

Why it matters: The decision secures fresh World Series MVP William Contreras as the front office explores a long-term contract extension this winter. Declining the mutual options opens payroll space and roster spots as free agency begins across Major League Baseball.

What to watch: Milwaukee will turn toward extension talks with Contreras while Sanchez, Senzatela, and May head into the open market.