Brewers Considered Multiple Veteran Infielders Before Signing Luis Rengifo

Milwaukee explored options to replace traded third baseman Caleb Durbin, including Astros' Ramón Urías.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Milwaukee Brewers traded starting third baseman Caleb Durbin to the Boston Red Sox, leaving a hole in their infield. While they ultimately signed free agent Luis Rengifo from the Los Angeles Angels, the Brewers also considered signing Houston Astros infielder Ramón Urías before landing on Rengifo.

Why it matters

The Brewers' decision to sign Rengifo over Urías is somewhat curious, as Urías is considered the better defensive third baseman. Defense is a priority for the Brewers, so their choice to go with Rengifo raises questions about their evaluation process and decision-making.

The details

According to reports, the Brewers were in discussions with both Rengifo and Urías before agreeing to a one-year, $3.5 million contract with Rengifo. Urías ranked 18th among third basemen in Outs Above Average last season, while Rengifo was 35th out of 39. Rengifo also struggled offensively in 2025, registering 27% below league average in OPS+.

  • The Brewers traded Caleb Durbin to the Boston Red Sox in a shocking deal.
  • The Brewers signed Luis Rengifo to a one-year, $3.5 million contract.

The players

Luis Rengifo

A free agent utility man who previously played for the Los Angeles Angels.

Ramón Urías

An infielder for the Houston Astros who is considered a strong defensive third baseman.

Caleb Durbin

The Brewers' former starting third baseman who was traded to the Boston Red Sox.

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What they’re saying

“The Milwaukee Brewers were talking with both Luis Rengifo and Ramón Urías before agreeing with Rengifo on a one-year, $3.5 million contract, according to people familiar with the discussions. Without knowing Urías' desired terms, the Brewers' choice was somewhat curious. Rengifo isn't as good a defender as Urías at the position where the team has an opening, third base.”

— Ken Rosenthal, Reporter (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Brewers will need to evaluate how Rengifo performs at third base and whether their decision to sign him over Urías was the right move for the team's defensive needs.

The takeaway

The Brewers' decision to sign Luis Rengifo over the more defensively-skilled Ramón Urías raises questions about the team's priorities and decision-making process as they look to fill a key hole in their infield.