The Milwaukee Brewers have been involved in the tradition of trading marquee players to reduce payroll and strengthen their farm system. This approach could intensify in the coming years due to recent changes in broadcasting rights.

After cutting ties with FanDuel Sports Network and partnering with MLB’s media department to broadcast games, Brewers owner Mark Attanasio stated that the change in TV rights could cost the team $20 million this year.

Under the previous broadcasting deal with Fanduel Sports Network, the Brewers and other MLB teams received a flat payment in exchange for the broadcasting rights to their regular-season games. However, when the network’s owner, Main Street Sports Group, experienced financial turmoil, they were forced to terminate the contract.

Milwaukee was among nine teams that terminated their contracts with Main Street Sports Group on January 8, according to ESPN.

Just before Opening Day, Brewers.TV was announced in partnership with MLB. The package for Milwaukee fans costs $99.99 for a full season or $19.99 per month and is available on various platforms.

Unfortunately for the Brewers and other teams partnered with MLB, the revenue model is very different than previous agreements with regional sports networks. MLB gives no fee for the broadcasting rights, instead only providing clubs each month with whatever revenue is generated from the broadcasting deals, minus the cost of producing the broadcasts.

In 2024, the Brewers’ payroll sat 18th in Major League Baseball at $162.786 million, and it dropped to $143.593 million (22nd) last season.

As of Opening Day 2026, per Spotrac, the Brewers rank 22nd in payroll at $132.994 million. Depending on how much revenue Brewers.TV generates this season, it’s possible payroll could be slashed even further next season.

It’s worth noting that Brandon Woodruff ($22.025 million) is on an expiring contract and Milwaukee also holds a $14.5 million club option for the 2027 season on William Contreras, which could be declined or he could be traded.

These factors, combined with the variable revenue from broadcasting, could significantly affect the Brewers' ability to maintain their current roster and compete in the future.