News Summary
The Milwaukee Brewers will face the Chicago Cubs in the National League Division Series without starting pitcher Brandon Woodruff, who is sidelined with a strained right lat muscle. This injury, which occurred on September 17, has prevented Woodruff from throwing since. While his absence is a significant loss for the Brewers, there is hope he could return for the World Series if the team advances. Woodruff’s solid performance this season has heightened the pressure on the Brewers as they adjust their pitching strategy.
Milwaukee, WI – The Milwaukee Brewers will be without starting pitcher Brandon Woodruff for the upcoming National League Division Series against the Chicago Cubs due to a strained right lat muscle. This critical announcement was made by Brewers manager Pat Murphy, confirming that the team’s hopes for a deep playoff run will proceed without one of their key players.
Woodruff sustained the lat injury on September 17 and has not resumed any throwing program since the incident. While this absence from the postseason is disappointing for the Brewers, there remains a glimmer of hope; Woodruff could potentially return if the team advances to the World Series. Woodruff himself has taken some comfort in the news that there is no damage to his previously injured right shoulder, which is now deemed “100% healthy.” He underwent surgery for a torn capsule in his shoulder and missed the entire 2024 season because of that injury.
Before this recent setback, Woodruff was having a successful season, boasting a 3.20 ERA across 12 starts and achieving a win-loss record of 7-2. Over 63 innings pitched, he struck out 84 batters and maintained a WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched) of 0.91. The Brewers were counting on Woodruff to slot into the rotation behind ace Freddy Peralta for their playoff strategy, but his injury has forced the team to reconsider their pitching plans toward the series against the Cubs.
Currently, the Brewers are making decisions between pitchers Quinn Priester and Jose Quintana to take on the challenge in Game 2 of the National League Division Series. Woodruff’s status remains day-to-day, and he is focusing primarily on treatment and recovery for his injury.
In addition to his current situation, it is noteworthy that Woodruff is under a two-year contract with the Brewers worth $17.5 million. This deal includes a $20 million mutual option for the 2026 season and a $10 million buyout, reflecting the Brewers’ long-term investment in his talent and skills. Woodruff has expressed gratitude for being part of the Brewers organization and conveyed a strong connection to the city of Milwaukee, stating that it feels like home to him.
Woodruff’s injury follows a lengthy rehabilitation period after his shoulder surgery, a process that kept him from participating in games for almost two years. His absence from the mound is particularly significant for the Brewers as they set their sights on a competitive playoff run.
Brewers general manager Matt Arnold acknowledged Woodruff’s crucial role within the team, noting that his presence on the field would have been invaluable. Arnold expressed hope that Woodruff could return to the mound before the season’s end, highlighting the ongoing determination and resilience of the organization.
As the Brewers prepare for their postseason series without Woodruff, the team and fans alike are adjusting to the news while holding onto hopes for a further playoff journey and a potential return for Woodruff should their season continue into the World Series.
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Additional Resources
- JSONline: Woodruff Won’t Pitch
- Wikipedia: Milwaukee Brewers
- New York Times: Woodruff Out
- Google Search: Brandon Woodruff
- SI.com: Woodruff Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baseball
- Reviewing the Brew: Woodruff’s Status
- Google News: Milwaukee Brewers
- MLB.com: Woodruff Won’t Pitch
- MLB Trade Rumors: Woodruff Injured
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
