Former Top Starter Elects Elects Free Agency After 4 Seasons With Brewers

Left-handed pitcher Eric Lauer, formerly of the Milwaukee Brewers, has officially elected free agency.

This decision comes after he cleared waivers without any other team claiming him, and he was outrighted to the Brewers' Triple-A affiliate in Nashville.

Eric Lauer, outrighted by the Brewers last week, has elected free agency.
— Todd Rosiak (@Todd_Rosiak) October 23, 2023

Lauer, now 28 years old, had established himself as a reliable part of the Brewers' pitching staff in both 2021 and 2022, posting a commendable 3.47 earned run average over 277.1 innings during that period.

However, his performance took a sharp downturn in 2023, with a concerning 5.48 ERA in his first nine appearances, leading to an injury and subsequent demotion to the minors.

Unfortunately, his struggles continued in the minor leagues, and he concluded the season with a challenging 6.56 ERA.

Eric Lauer elected free agency. His four-season tenure with the Brewers has come to an end. https://t.co/L5D2Dci7K5
— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) October 23, 2023

With more than three years of service time under his belt, Lauer exercised his option to reject the outright assignment to the Brewers' Triple-A affiliate in Nashville and has become a free agent.

This decision allows him to explore opportunities with other MLB teams in the hope of revitalizing his career.

Despite his challenging 2023 season, Lauer can point to his strong prior performances in 2021 and 2022 as he seeks his next contract in the open market.

Teams may still see potential in him and be willing to offer him another chance to regain his previous form on the mound. Photo Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports