Brewers' Pat Murphy’s leadership style resonates throughout clubhouse
Pat Murphy’s leadership style resonates throughout clubhouse
Brewers players say manager Pat Murphy’s leadership, humor and accountability have helped shape the clubhouse as he enters the 2026 season after signing an extension through 2028.
PHOENIX - Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy’s impact goes beyond baseball. Players say his personality, honesty and leadership style have helped shape the clubhouse as the team prepares for the 2026 season.
Murphy, entering another season with Milwaukee, continues to build relationships with players — both new and returning — through a mix of humor, honesty and accountability.
"He's one of one man, you know, so talking to Murph a little bit, you know he's going to keep it real with you and that's all you can ask for from a manager. Be transparent as possible and that is the guy you want to ride for and play for, so I'm enjoying that," said Akil Baddoo.
BEYOND THE GAME: Watch and read more stories from Brewers spring training
Newcomer Brandon Sproat said he had already heard about Murphy’s reputation before joining the organization.
"I’ve heard nothing but great things about him that he's a big-time player's coach. Will motivate you, but you know, will also push you in times of need," he said. "But yeah, I mean, like I said, I've never heard nothing but great things about him."
Players say Murphy’s personality helps create a relaxed but focused environment, especially for younger players.
"I think it's great, you know, having a manager to be able to joke around with you and kind of take not necessarily the stress off, but like you can just play with ease, be here with ease," said Jett Williams.
Murphy is also known for quickly connecting with players — often by giving them nicknames.
"He's gonna give you a nickname right away. He's gonna say what's on his mind. And I think everybody has a pretty good idea coming in," said Brandon Lockridge. "They've done their research, they know how Murph is. And I don't know, I feel like everybody embraces it. And they're almost excited to see what he's got for each day."
Outfielder Sal Frelick often finds himself on the receiving end of Murphy’s humor.
"Yeah, definitely probably the biggest punching bag from Earth in the clubhouse, but I don't know if it helps the team or not. I think it might help him," he said. "So, as long as it helps him stay, even keel, then he can throw as many jabs at me as he wants."
"He can take it – and Sal, he knows it comes out of love," Murphy said. "I respect him a great deal. I know he has that ‘it’ factor."
Players also say Murphy knows when to shift from humor to focus.
RELATED: Check out the new and improved FOX Sports app
"He just jokes around and, you know, when time gets serious, like he's locked in and, you know, expects the same," said Jacob Misiorowski.
"I think once he gets to know you better, and you get to know him, you realize that he's one of the best guys around here, and he cares deeply for all of us in here," said Blake Perkins.
Murphy has won National League Manager of the Year honors in each of the past two seasons. He also signed a contract extension during spring training that runs through 2028.
Brewers’ William Contreras continues rise as team leader
William Contreras enters his fourth season with the Brewers as pitchers praise his leadership, defense and offense, helping anchor Milwaukee’s staff heading into the 2026 season.
The Source: FOX6 Sports interviewed the subjects featured in this Beyond the Game.