Image Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
The Milwaukee Brewers have made a notable move during the offseason, acquiring left-handed relief pitcher Ángela Zerpa from the Kansas City Royals. This trade, announced on December 13, 2025, saw the Brewers part with outfielder Isaac Collins and right-hander Nick Mears, both of whom contributed to a successful 2025 season that concluded with a remarkable 97 wins for the team.
The Inside Scoop on the Trade for Ángela Zerpa
In exchange for Collins and Mears, the Brewers gain Zerpa, a 26-year-old pitcher known for his impressive raw talent. Last season, he posted a 4.18 ERA over 69 appearances, showing promise with a 62.4% ground ball rate, placing him in the 99th percentile among MLB pitchers. His sinker-slider combination makes him a valuable asset, aligning well with the Brewers’ strategic approach to pitching.
Why the Brewers Made This Trade
By trading Collins and Mears, the Brewers are indeed taking a slight step back, believing that they can unlock even more potential from Zerpa, who has been touted for his ability to throw in the upper 90s. Collins had a standout rookie season, being recognized fourth in the NL Rookie of the Year voting with a solid .263 batting average and an impressive .368 on-base percentage. On the other hand, Mears made 63 appearances in 2025, maintaining a 3.49 ERA.
- Isaac Collins: Contributed as a fourth-place finisher in NL Rookie of the Year voting.
- Nick Mears: Played a high-leverage role with 63 appearances.
- Ángela Zerpa: Offers exceptional stuff and fits the Brewers’ pitching style.
This decision reflects the Brewers’ depth in the outfield, which now includes new arrival Akil Baddoo, along with talent like Sal Frelick and Garrett Mitchell. While front office analysts often debate trades, it is evident that the Brewers are looking to strengthen their bullpen with a pitcher who has both club control and potential upside.
Zerpa’s Potential Impact on the Brewers’ Bullpen
Ángela Zerpa arrives at a pivotal moment for the Brewers. With multiple years of club control remaining and one minor-league option, he is expected to play a significant role in a crowded pitching bullpen alongside Abner Uribe, Trevor Megill, and Jared Koenig. This potential for growth and development is exciting for fans looking forward to the upcoming season.
During his previous season with the Royals, Zerpa also demonstrated a knack for controlling the game, as shown by his strikeout rate of 16.4%. The Brewers hope to refine his skills further, maximizing his ground ball ability to help secure more wins in an always-competitive MLB landscape.
Final Thoughts on the Trade for Brewers Fans
For fans of the Brewers, the acquisition of Ángela Zerpa is more than just a trade; it represents a strategic move towards fortifying the team’s pitching staff for future success. While losing two contributors from the 2025 roster is always a risk, the hope is that this transaction pays dividends as the Brewers aim for another strong season. Ultimately, this trade positions the team to blend experience with emerging talent, setting the stage for thrilling MLB action ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What teams were involved in the recent trade for Ángela Zerpa?
The Milwaukee Brewers traded Isaac Collins and Nick Mears to the Kansas City Royals for Ángela Zerpa.
What was Ángela Zerpa’s performance last season?
Zerpa had a 4.18 ERA with 69 appearances, showcasing a 62.4% ground ball rate and 58 strikeouts in 64⅔ innings.
Who were the contributors the Brewers traded?
The Brewers traded Isaac Collins, who finished fourth in NL Rookie of the Year voting, and Nick Mears, who had a 3.49 ERA in 63 appearances.
How does this trade affect the Brewers’ pitching staff?
This trade aims to strengthen the Brewers’ bullpen, adding a pitcher known for his powerful sinker-slider combination and high ground ball rates.
What is the significance of club control in this trade?
Zerpa has three years of club control remaining, giving the Brewers a valuable asset for both the present and future.
