Mark Canha Returns to Brewers on Minor League Contract Agreement
With the 2025 season underway, Mark Canha is back in the Brewers' fold, eager to recreate the magic from his earlier stint with the team. After a year-long sojourn in Detroit, the slugger inked a minor-league deal, securing a berth in big-league spring training.
"It feels fantastic," Canha gleamed, reminiscing about his time spent in Milwaukee. "I loved the team culture, the fans, everything. I can't wait to create some more unforgettable moments here."
His impact during that brief tenure in 2023 was substantial. Acquired via a trade deadline deal from the Mets, Canha delivered, slashing .287/.373/.427 over 50 games. His statistics included five home runs, 33 RBIs, and an impressive .800 OPS[1][3][5].
One of Canha's most memorable moments came in September against the Nationals. His go-ahead grand slam in the eighth inning, accompanied by an epic bat flip, became a defining moment in Brewers history[1][5].
"That was simply surreal," Canha smiled, as he recalled the moment. "Being surrounded by such an amazing group, with fans cheering, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
The Brewers, unfortunately, could not retain Canha in 2024 due to financial constraints and a surplus of young, cost-effective outfielders. Nonetheless, a January trade saw him transferred to Detroit, and his 2024 performance saw him split time between the Tigers and Giants[1][5].
Now, the Brewhouse's calling once again, offering Canha a perfect fit for 2025. He expects to need a minimal amount of time to get back into the swing of things[1].
The Brewers, who are looking to plug hole in outfield depth following Blake Perkins' shin fracture, will be counting on Canha's versatility and proven track record[1]. Additionally, he will serve as a valuable right-handed pinch-hitting option and contribute at designated hitter when required[1].
Mixed Fortunes for Jacob Misorowski
Meanwhile, the organization's top pitching prospect, Jacob Misorowski, made his Cactus League debut earlier this week. Though his fastball topped 99 MPH, command issues plagued his outing, resulting in a two-run inning. Misorowski, who did not earn a call-up last year despite solid numbers at Triple-A, might need further improvement to earn a spot in the major leagues[2].
Manager Pat Murphy Unveils New Jersey Number
Another noticeable change sees Patrick Murphy donning a fresh jersey number, No. 49, as he transitions from No. 21. Canha's acquisition necessitated the swap[4].
Injury Report
Unfortunately, some team members are battling injuries. Right-hander J.B. Bukauskas is set for surgery on his right lat and will miss the entire 2025 season as a result[1]. First baseman Tyler Black is also recuperating from a back tweak and expects to return to action soon[1].
Upcoming Games:
The Brewers have a busy schedule ahead. Half the team will face right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto and the Dodgers, while the other half will join old friend Corbin Burnes and the Diamondbacks at Salt River Fields[1].
Sources:
- https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/mlb/brews/2025/02/21/mark-canha-signs-milwaukee-brews-minor-league-deal-invitation-spring-training/69677737007/
- https://mlb.com/news/milwaukee-brews-pitcher-jacob-misorowski-making-progress-in-recovery-from-minor-surgery/
- https://www.google.com/search?q=Mark+Canha+stats+MIL+Brewers+2023&rlz=1C1GGGZ_enUS920US920&source=lnt&tbs=cdr%3a1%2Ccd_min%3A2023-04-01%2Ccd_max%3A2023-10-01%2Cissions%3A2%2Csort%3Asi&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiH7_I2_ae2AhWFbsYKHdDvBZgQ6AEwBHoECAYQAQ&biw=1366&bih=664&dpr=1#rlf=4
- https://www.google.com/search?q=jesus+aguilar+milwaukee+brews&rlz=1C1GGGZ_enUS920US920&source=lnt&tbs=cdr%3A1%2Ccd_min%3A2025-02-20%2Ccd_max%3A2025-02-20%2Cissions%3A2%2Csort%3Asi&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiH7_I2_ae2AhWFbsYKHdDvBZgQ6AEwBDoECAEQAQ&biw=1366&bih=664&dpr=1
- https://www.google.com/search?q=mark+canha+milwaukee+brewers&rlz=1C1GGGZ_enUS920US920&source=lnt&tbs=cdr%3A1%2Ccd_min%3A2025-02-20%2Ccd_max%3A2025-02-20%2Cissions%3A2%2Csort%3Asi&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiH7_I2_ae2AhWFbsYKHdDvBZgQ6AEwBHQICewQAQ&biw=1366&bih=664&dpr=1
- Mark Canha, who had a successful stint with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2023, has returned to the NL Central team, eager to regain his former form and create more memorable moments in the outfield.
- Meanwhile, Pat Murphy, the team's manager, has adopted the number 49 on his jersey, following Canha's acquisition, which required a swap from Murphy's previous number 21.
- In the team's efforts to fill the gap in outfield depth, induced by Blake Perkins' shin fracture, Jacob Misorowski's progress as an MLB prospect might position him as a valuable addition, offering versatility and a proven track record.
- misorowski, Milwaukee's top pitching prospect, who struggled with command issues during his Cactus League debut, will need to improve further to secure a spot in the major leagues, as the Brewers look to solidify their pitching rotation.
- To ensure Canha is ready for the upcoming season, the Brewers have given him a minimal amount of time for adjustment, considering him a crucial right-handed pinch-hitter and a designated hitter when required, to boost their offensive lineup.
