MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin — A career move is sometimes not only judged by the number on a contract, but also by how a player feels when stepping onto the field every day.
For an arm once viewed as the future of the Los Angeles Dodgers, the new journey with the Milwaukee Brewers is becoming a bigger challenge than he ever imagined.
After years of building his name in Los Angeles, the World Series champion is facing a difficult period while searching for stability in a new uniform.
The person behind this story is Dustin May, the former Dodgers pitcher and one of the young pitching talents who once received enormous expectations in MLB.
"Money and big opportunities are not always everything. The most important thing is finding a place where you feel trusted, where you can develop, and where you can become the best version of yourself. I hope young players will think carefully before making decisions only because of a big contract."
May was selected by the Dodgers in the third round of the 2016 MLB Draft and quickly became one of the most promising arms in the team’s development system.
He made his MLB debut in 2019 and was once viewed as an important part of the Dodgers’ future plans because of his powerful velocity and ability to create game changing moments on the mound.
The most memorable moment of his career came in 2020, when he helped the Dodgers win the World Series after defeating the Tampa Bay Rays.
During his time wearing the Los Angeles uniform, May made more than 100 MLB appearances, owned a powerful fastball, had strong ground ball ability, and was once expected to become a top level starter.
However, injuries seriously affected his development process, especially Tommy John surgery that forced him away from the field for an extended period.
After leaving the Dodgers, he was expected to rediscover his form in a new environment, but his early period with the Brewers has not gone as hoped.
In 6 appearances for Milwaukee, the pitcher has recorded a 1 win, 2 loss record with a 6.17 ERA, numbers that do not truly reflect the ability he once showed.
His declining performance has caused many fans to question the decision to bring him to the Brewers, while the player himself continues working to regain his confidence.
Despite the difficulties, May understands that an MLB career always includes ups and downs, and every decision comes with its own lessons.
He does not deny the value of big contracts, but believes that development, the playing environment, and trust from a new team are more important factors.
May’s story has become a reminder for many young MLB talents who are facing major career decisions.
Not every move should be determined by the highest salary, because long term success also depends on the fit between the player and the organization.
From being a major hope in the Dodgers system to his journey of finding himself again with the Brewers, May is experiencing a challenging new chapter.
But with the talent that once helped him become one of the top pitching prospects, the door to a comeback has not closed.
For young players preparing to make important decisions, Dustin May’s story can be a valuable lesson about choosing the future instead of only looking at the number on a contract.
