Brewers C William Contreras signs 1-year deal, avoids arbitration

The All-Star catcher will earn $9.4 million in 2026 with a club option for 2027.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Milwaukee Brewers have signed All-Star catcher William Contreras to a one-year, $9.4 million contract, avoiding salary arbitration. Contreras, 28, batted .260 with 17 home runs and 76 RBIs in 150 games for the Brewers last season. The deal also includes a club option for the 2027 season worth $14.5 million.

Why it matters

Contreras has emerged as one of the top catchers in baseball, making the All-Star team in 2024 and 2025. Locking him up on a one-year deal with a club option gives the Brewers cost certainty and control over a key offensive piece of their lineup as they look to compete in the NL Central.

The details

Contreras, who was previously with the Atlanta Braves, has been a consistent offensive threat since joining the Brewers in 2023. Last season, he hit .260 with 17 home runs and 76 RBIs in 150 games. The one-year, $9.4 million contract will keep him in Milwaukee for the 2026 season, and the Brewers hold a $14.5 million club option for 2027.

  • Contreras signed the one-year deal on Thursday, February 13, 2026.

The players

William Contreras

A 28-year-old All-Star catcher for the Milwaukee Brewers.

Milwaukee Brewers

A Major League Baseball team based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Brewers have secured their starting catcher for the 2026 season and potentially 2027 as well, ensuring they retain one of the top offensive catchers in the game as they look to compete in the NL Central.