Milwaukee Brewers pull off a three-way trade for William Contreras
Matt Arnold makes his first seismic move as GM - and it's "a doozy"
It took a couple of months, but Matt Arnold made his first seismic move as the Brewers' General Manager since taking over for David Stearns.
In a three-team trade involving the Atlanta Braves and the Oakland A's, the Brewers obtained right-handed pitcher Joel Payamps (Oakland), RHP Justin Yeager (Atlanta), and catcher William Contreras (Atlanta). Contreras was an all-star selection this season.
In return, the Brewers sent outfield prospect Esteury Ruiz, who Milwaukee obtained in the trade that sent closer Josh Hader to the San Diego Padres, to Oakland.
Contreras provides an immediate impact for the Brewers
Conteras provides Milwaukee's offense with a significant infusion of talent. The catcher, who will turn 25 years old in 12 days, would have ranked first or second in numerous offensive statistics on the Brewers this year. He would have been the Brewers' leader in on-base percentage, slugging, runs created, and more.
Beyond his offensive production, Arnold also obtained the young catcher's still club-friendly contract. Contreras has two more seasons before he becomes arbitration-eligible and is under club control for the next five seasons.
Milwaukee obtains two relief pitchers
The major league pitcher the Brewers obtained in the trade, Payamps, pitched 55.2 innings between Oakland and the Kansas City Royals in 2022. A 3.23 ERA pitcher last season, Payamps will likely be a contributor in Milwaukee's bullpen.
Yaeger is a right-handed relief pitcher prospect who spent time in High-A and AA this season.
This article was originally published as a story in the December 13, 2022 edition of the ‘Sconnie Six Pack.