October 4, 2025

Brewers Lose Woodruff for NLDS Against Cubs

here-intlog
October 4, 2025
6:32 am
Milwaukee

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.