The Milwaukee Brewers have added to their roster by signing left-handed pitcher Drew Rom to a minor league contract, which includes an invitation to Spring Training. This move follows the retention of Brandon Woodruff through a qualifying offer but does not signify a major shift in the Brewers’ strategy, as the team is known for its conservative approach in free agency.
On November 6, 2023, Rom elected free agency after a brief stint with the St. Louis Cardinals. The 26-year-old was originally drafted in the fourth round by the Baltimore Orioles in 2018. He was traded to St. Louis earlier in 2023 as part of a deal that centered around veteran pitcher Jack Flaherty.
Rom made his Major League Baseball debut in 2023, starting eight games for the Cardinals. His performance included a record of 1-4, with an ERA of 8.02 and a WHIP of 2.08. After undergoing shoulder surgery, he did not pitch in the 2024 season. In 2025, he made seven starts in the minors for St. Louis, posting a more respectable ERA of 3.86 over 23.1 innings.
This minor league signing aligns with the Brewers’ ongoing strategy to enhance depth without committing significant financial resources. As the team navigates the offseason, they have also been involved in trade discussions, including a recent deal that sent Isaac Collins and Nick Mears to the Kansas City Royals in exchange for Angel Zerpa. Although Freddy Peralta has been mentioned in trade rumors, he remains with the team.
For the Brewers, securing Rom could be a low-risk opportunity to bolster their pitching depth, particularly at the Triple-A level. If he performs well in Spring Training, he may earn a chance to contribute at the Major League level. The financial implications of the deal are minimal, making it a strategic addition for the organization.
While this signing does not dramatically alter the Brewers’ immediate prospects, it reflects a calculated approach to building a competitive roster. The team continues to seek ways to strengthen its lineup as the new season approaches.
