As the MLB trade season approaches, the Milwaukee Brewers are receiving increased interest in right-handed reliever Nick Mears. According to reports from The Athletic, teams around the league are actively seeking low-profile options to bolster their bullpens.
Nick Mears: A Rising Relief Pitcher
Nick Mears, now 29, joined the Brewers just before the 2024 trade deadline. The Brewers acquired him in exchange for pitchers Bradley Blalock and Yujanyer Herrera from the Colorado Rockies. Initially an undrafted free agent signed by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2018, Mears has since had a complicated journey through the league.
Career Journey
- Mears was traded to the Rockies for Connor Joe.
- He was later claimed off waivers by the Texas Rangers and then reclaimed by the Rockies.
- During the 2024 season, he settled into a bullpen role in Denver.
When Mears arrived in Milwaukee, he struggled with an ERA in the mid-5.00s, but displayed significant potential with his swing-and-miss ability. Despite a rocky end to the 2024 season, where he posted a 7.30 ERA, the Brewers decided to retain him for the 2025 season. This decision paid off, as Mears emerged as a reliable setup pitcher.
2025 Season Performance
In the 2025 season, Mears showcased his talents over 56 2/3 innings. His achievements included:
- 16 holds and 1 save.
- A 3.49 earned run average.
Mears adjusted his pitching strategy during this time, reducing his fastball usage while increasing his slider utilization. Although he recorded fewer strikeouts compared to 2024, he maintained impressive swing-and-miss rates and opponents’ chase rates.
Improved Command
One of the most notable improvements in Mears’ game was his command. With the Brewers, he reduced his walk rate to just 5.8%, a significant decline from the over 12% he experienced with the Rockies. This enhancement has made him a more valuable asset to the team.
Trade Considerations
Nick Mears remains under club control until 2027. MLB Trade Rumors contributor Matt Swartz predicts his salary for 2026 could be around $1.6 million, making him a cost-effective option. Milwaukee’s management has shown a willingness to consider trades for players nearing free agency, presenting a scenario where Mears could either contribute significantly to the bullpen or be used as trade bait.
Other Bullpen Options
The Brewers have a deep bullpen, featuring several pitchers with strong performance metrics. Notable names include:
- Trevor Megill
- Abner Uribe
- Grant Anderson
- Jared Koenig
- Aaron Ashby
Each of these pitchers delivered ERAs of 3.23 or better in 2025, contributing to a competitive bullpen environment. Additionally, left-handed options like Rob Zastryzny and DL Hall further enhance the team’s depth.
Future Outlook
As the Brewers consider their strategic options, Nick Mears stands out as a potential trade candidate for teams aiming to improve their pitching staff without incurring high costs. His successful transition into a strong setup role could make him an essential piece for Milwaukee or a promising asset for a team in need of reliable bullpen help.
