Veteran Left-Hander José Quintana Joins Milwaukee Brewers in Hopeful Pitching Rotation Boost
In a move that could prove pivotal for their 2025 season, the Milwaukee Brewers have signed veteran left-handed pitcher José Quintana to a one-year contract worth $4.25 million, with an additional $1 million in potential bonuses. The deal, which was first reported by FanSided, represents a strategic addition to a pitching rotation that is looking to reclaim dominance in the competitive National League Central Division. Quintana, now 36, arrives in Milwaukee after a solid 2024 campaign with the New York Mets, where he posted a 10-10 record and a 3.75 ERA in 31 starts. His ability to consistently perform at a high level, even in his mid-30s, makes him a valuable asset for a Brewers team that is looking to stabilize its rotation heading into the new season.
Quintana’s 2024 season was a testament to his enduring effectiveness on the mound. Over 170.1 innings, he struck out 135 batters and walked 63, showcasing the kind of control and composure that has defined his career. Perhaps even more impressive was his performance down the stretch, as he allowed just four earned runs over 36.1 innings in his final six regular-season starts. This late-season surge was a key factor in the Mets’ push for the playoffs, and it underscored Quintana’s ability to rise to the occasion in critical moments. When the postseason arrived, Quintana played a crucial role, starting the decisive National League Wild Card Series game against the Brewers themselves. Although he didn’t factor into the decision, he delivered six scoreless innings in a 4-2 Mets victory, demonstrating the kind of poise that has made him a reliable postseason performer throughout his career.
The Brewers, who are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2024 campaign, are banking on Quintana to bring that same level of consistency to their rotation. The team has retained key starters like Freddy Peralta and Aaron Civale, and the addition of Quintana adds much-needed depth to a rotation that has been hit hard by injuries. Brandon Woodruff, a two-time All-Star, is still recovering from shoulder surgery and won’t be ready for the start of the season, while Robert Gasser is working his way back from Tommy John surgery and likely won’t return until later in the year. The injury bug struck again on Monday night when left-hander Aaron Ashby, a promising young arm who was in contention for a rotation spot, left his start against the Cincinnati Reds with an oblique issue. Manager Pat Murphy revealed that Ashby would undergo an MRI to assess the severity of the injury, leaving the Brewers’ rotation plans in flux.
For José Quintana, the move to Milwaukee represents a new chapter in a career that has been marked by both consistency and resilience. A former All-Star with the Chicago White Sox in 2016, Quintana has built a reputation as a durable and effective left-hander, capable of eating innings and keeping his team in games. Over the course of his career, he has pitched for several teams, including the White Sox, Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Pirates, St. Louis Cardinals, Los Angeles Angels, San Francisco Giants, and most recently, the New York Mets. When he takes the mound for the Brewers, he will have achieved the rare distinction of having pitched for every team in the National League Central Division—a testament to his longevity and adaptability. With a career record of 102-103 and a 3.74 ERA over 359 appearances, Quintana has proven himself to be a steady presence in any rotation, and the Brewers are hoping he can bring that same reliability to Milwaukee.
While Quintana’s primary role will be to solidify the back end of the rotation, his presence could also have a broader impact on the team. With several young pitchers in the mix, including the aforementioned Ashby, Peralta, and Civale, Quintana’s experience and work ethic could serve as a valuable mentorship resource in the clubhouse. His ability to navigate lineups and pitch deep into games could also help alleviate some of the pressure on a bullpen that was heavily taxed in 2024. Furthermore, Quintana’s track record in high-stakes situations could prove invaluable as the Brewers look to make a deep postseason run. While the contract is just for one year, the potential for Quintana to make a meaningful contribution in 2025 is significant, and the Brewers are no doubt hoping that he can help lead them back to the top of the National League Central.
As Quintana begins his journey with the Brewers, he does so with the knowledge that he has already proven himself as one of the most consistent left-handed pitchers of his generation. His ability to adapt to new teams and thrive in new environments is a testament to his professionalism and dedication to the craft. Now, as he prepares to take the mound at American Family Field for the first time, Quintana has his sights set on helping the Brewers achieve their goal of returning to the playoffs—and perhaps even making a deep run in October. With his wealth of experience and proven track record, he is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of Milwaukee’s rotation, both in the short term and beyond.
