Dustin May declines $20 million mutual option with Brewers

Pitcher Dustin May has declined a $20 million mutual option for the 2027 MLB season, making him a free agent. Following the decision, May will receive a $500,000 buyout.

May joined the Milwaukee Brewers via an August trade from the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for outfield prospects Alexander Frías and Josiah Ragsdale. While the Brewers secured their first franchise World Series championship following the trade, May experienced a period of inconsistent performance. He posted a 5.65 ERA across 36.2 innings with Milwaukee and allowed seven runs over 11 innings during the postseason.

Prior to the trade, May played 21 games for the Cardinals, recording a 7-9 record with a 4.38 ERA. Despite his recent struggles, May maintains a career ERA of 3.86 and has demonstrated high velocity, averaging nearly 97 mph on his fastball. His camp is expected to seek a multi-year contract in free agency.