Brewers Sign José Quintana to Add Depth to Pitching Rotation

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — The Milwaukee Brewers have signed free-agent left-handed pitcher José Quintana to a one-year contract, enhancing their pitching depth ahead of the 2025 season.

Quintana, 35, comes to the Brewers after a season with the New York Mets where he compiled a 3.75 ERA over 170 ⅓ innings. His performance translated to an estimated 2.5 Wins Above Replacement, demonstrating his value on the mound despite facing some challenges.

Last season, Quintana experienced a notable increase in home runs allowed, giving up 22 long balls—the highest total since 2018. Additionally, his walk rate rose compared to previous seasons. However, Quintana showcased his capabilities during several stretches, notably from May 16 to July 9, where he pitched 10 consecutive starts with an impressive 2.77 ERA.

In his final six regular-season starts, he recorded a staggering 0.74 ERA and allowed only one unearned run in his first two playoff appearances. Unfortunately, his postseason success came to an abrupt halt in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series, when he struggled against opposing hitters.

With over 13 years of major league experience, Quintana has only once, in 2021, finished a season with an ERA+ below the league average. While he may not possess overpowering stuff, analysts emphasize his ability to locate pitches effectively and utilize a four-pitch arsenal strategically.

“There’s always crater risk with these kinds of pitchers regardless of their age, but a team could do worse than counting on Quintana as their No. 4 starter,” said a source familiar with the situation.

Quintana will look to secure a spot in a Brewers rotation that currently features established pitchers. The Brewers are set to kick off their 2025 season on March 27 against the Chicago Cubs.