The Milwaukee Brewers knew when they acquired Dustin May from the St. Louis Cardinals in a trade during the season that there was a chance he'd end up being a half-season rental. The final year of his contract featured a mutual option for 2027. Sure enough, May has declined the option and will become a free agent, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports.

The decision comes just one day after Milwaukee's World Series win. May's 5.73 2026 postseason ERA was not ideal, but he did provide depth on the pitching staff. The veteran recorded some big innings in the playoffs and World Series for the Brewers.

Overall, May finished the 2026 regular season with a 4.70 ERA across 31 total starts with the Cardinals and Brewers. After beginning his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers back in 2019, May has pitched for four total teams since 2025. He began 2025 with the Dodgers before ending up with the Boston Red Sox, and, as mentioned, he spent 2026 with St. Louis and Milwaukee.

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May's underwhelming performance could make it challenging for him to land a long-term deal in MLB free agency this offseason. Perhaps a two or three-year contract with opt-outs may be realistic. A one-year deal will also be an option, though. If May performs well in 2027 on a one-year contract, he could land a lucrative, multi-year deal next offseason.

It remains to be seen if the Brewers will attempt to re-sign the right-handed hurler. Either way, Dustin May did play a role in their World Series victory.