The Milwaukee Brewers are actively pursuing Marcell Ozuna of the Atlanta Braves as they prepare for a crucial playoff push in the National League Central. With the trade deadline fast approaching, the Brewers see Ozuna as a strategic acquisition to add power to their lineup and improve their postseason chances.
Struggles Plague the Atlanta Braves Amid Steep Division Deficit
The Braves’ season has hit a rough patch, as their 42-53 record puts them 12.5 games behind in the NL East race. This unexpected downturn has generated trade rumors, positioning Ozuna as a potential trade asset. Though his production dropped in June and July, Ozuna still holds 13 home runs and 42 RBIs across 318 at-bats, numbers that could supply the power boost the Brewers currently lack.
Milwaukee’s Offensive Challenges Spur Search for Impact Bat
The Brewers have been struggling offensively, ranking 23rd in home runs with just 93 and 22nd in slugging percentage at .383. These stats underline their difficulties in producing consistent power, a critical shortcoming for a team with hopes of contending for the World Series. MLB insider Jeff Passan highlighted this notion on a Milwaukee radio show, stating the team might be
“one big bat away from being a legitimate World Series contender.”
Balancing Designated Hitter Roles Could Shape Lineup Changes
Christian Yelich has been the primary designated hitter this season, with 347 plate appearances in that role. Integrating Ozuna, who has served exclusively as a DH in 2024, would require creative lineup adjustments by the Brewers. Despite moderate output, the Brewers’ DH position has contributed a 0.7 Wins Above Average (WAA), tying them for sixth in the league, suggesting a degree of flexibility in this spot.
Ozuna’s Current Performance Indicates Potential Milwaukee Upgrade
While Ozuna is not at his career peak—holding a .762 OPS at the All-Star break compared to previous seasons where he posted .905 and .925—his current production still represents a substantial upgrade for Milwaukee. This improvement could help the Brewers’ offense generate more runs and power against NL Central rivals.
NL Central Race Tight as Brewers Seize Opportunity
The Brewers are in a tight race within the NL Central, sitting just one game behind the Chicago Cubs for first place. With the St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds showing signs of faltering, Milwaukee’s front office recognizes the urgency to act swiftly in acquiring reinforcements like Ozuna to seize this pivotal moment.
Financial Considerations and Playoff Experience Enhance Ozuna’s Appeal
Ozuna’s contract status adds appeal for any acquiring team. Entering the final year of a five-year, $80 million contract, he presents limited long-term financial risk. A midseason slump could also lower trade costs, making Ozuna a cost-effective option. His postseason experience includes 30 playoff games and a .250 batting average with five home runs, highlighted by his 2020 NLCS performance with the Braves. This veteran presence could provide leadership and depth to a Brewers team still defining its playoff identity.
Lineup Flexibility Will Be Crucial if Ozuna Joins Brewers
The challenge of combining the talents of both Yelich and Ozuna remains unresolved, but Milwaukee’s urgency to find a balanced lineup is clear. As the July 31 trade deadline nears, the Brewers are expected to focus heavily on potential deals with Atlanta. Securing Ozuna could dramatically shift the balance of power in the NL Central and strengthen Milwaukee’s bid for October success.