The Milwaukee Brewers are looking to compete once again in 2026 following a strong ’25 campaign. Christian Yelich continues to play a significant role from an offensive standpoint — which is something that won’t change this year in the regular season. Yelich recently explained how he is preparing for his 14th season in the big leagues, via MLB Network Radio.
“At every point in your career, you’re always tinkering with stuff or trying to get better. Take what you learn from previous years and apply it to the next year,” Yelich said.
Advertisement
The Brewers have enjoyed plenty of regular season success over the years. Even in a 97-win 2025 campaign, however, Milwaukee was unable to reach the World Series. Yelich recorded a .795 OPS and 29 home runs in the regular season, but hit just .182 in the postseason.
For his playoff career, Yelich holds a .218/.347/.317 slash line. He’s hit just two home runs in his 27 playoff games. Yelich is a fan-favorite in Milwaukee for a reason, as he’s enjoyed a strong career. It would not be surprising to see him perform well during the regular season again.
At some point, however, one has to wonder if Yelich is the guy to lead Milwaukee in the playoffs.
Advertisement
Christian Yelich’s Postseason Woes
Milwaukee Brewers left fielder Christian Yelich (22) © Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
(© Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images)
The Los Angeles Dodgers have won back-to-back World Series championships. Milwaukee’s pitching keeps them in games, but they need offense in October. If Yelich cannot step up and be the guy, this ball club may need to acknowledge the reality that they may not win a championship with the outfielder leading the way.
Yelich is under contract through 2028, and his deal features a 2029 club option. It would not be surprising to see the small-market Brewers make him available for a trade within the next couple of years. He is already 34 years old, though, so trading him sooner rather than later would be the best move if Milwaukee is planning on moving on from him at some point.
Advertisement
Of course, trading a face of a franchise is never a simple task. Perhaps Milwaukee will not move on. If the team keeps Yelich, though, they will have to hope that he figures things out in the postseason. Otherwise, Milwaukee won’t win a World Series anytime soon regardless of how the regular season goes.
And sitting on their couches and watching the Fall Classic on television again is the last thing the Brewers players want to happen.
Related: Christian Yelich Explains Why He Isn’t Fazed By Brewers Consistently Being Overlooked
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.