Brewers decline 2021 options on Gamel, Gyorko, Sogard

The Milwaukee Brewers declined to pick up 2021 options for outfielder Ben Gamel as well as infielders Jedd Gyorko and Eric Sogard on Friday.

Gyorko was Milwaukee’s most consistent hitter in 2020, logging a .248/.333/.504 slash line with nine home runs and 17 RBI in 42 games. Gyorko started 26 contests at first base, eight at third base and one at designated hitter. Among Brewers players who appeared in over 20 games, Gyorko led the team with a 118 wRC+. His club option for 2021 was valued at $4.5 million with a $1 million buyout.

Ben Gamel, who was acquired by Milwaukee in 2018 via a trade with Seattle, had his $2.6 million option for 2021 declined. In 40 games, Gamel registered a .237/.315/.404 slash line with eight doubles, three homers and 10 RBI. Gamel remains under team control and is eligible for arbitration.

Sogard rejoined the team in 2020 after playing two seasons with the Brewers from 2017-18. The 34-year-old tallied a .209/.281/.278 slash line with five doubles, one homer and 10 RBI in 43 contests this season. Sogard started 22 games at third base, four at shortstop, two at second base and one at designated hitter. His club option for 2021 was worth $4.5 million with a $500,000 buyout.

Gyorko and Sogard are now free agents.

On Thursday, Milwaukee declined to exercise a $15 million mutual 2021 option for slugger Ryan Braun, who is pondering retirement.