MILWAUKEE – The Milwaukee Brewers have successfully secured their catcher William Contreras through a one-year contract that is worth $6.1 million, thus averting the need for an arbitration hearing.

Under the terms of this agreement, Contreras will receive a salary of $6 million for the upcoming season, and the Brewers have an option for his services valued at $12 million for 2026, which includes a $100,000 buyout option.

Contreras, a two-time All-Star, had initially requested a salary of $6.5 million but was offered $5.6 million by the Brewers during the arbitration figure exchange. This contract solidifies his place with the reigning champions of the NL Central and includes a extension option for the 2026 season.

During the previous season, the 27-year-old Contreras showcased impressive performance, boasting a .281 batting average paired with a .365 on-base percentage, alongside hitting 23 home runs and driving in 92 runs across 155 games. He earned his second All-Star nod in three years last season. Furthermore, in 2023, he improved his batting average to .289, while maintaining a .367 on-base percentage with 17 homers and 78 RBIs in 141 games played.

For two consecutive years, the Milwaukee chapter of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America has recognized Contreras as the Brewers’ most valuable player. The team brought him onboard from the Atlanta Braves following the conclusion of the 2022 season.