Brewers Get Rough Update on Brandon Woodruff's Timetable for Return
The Milwaukee Brewers received unfortunate news about their starting pitcher as they push for not only the NL Wildcard, but the NL Central division title.
Starter Brandon Woodruff exited his last outing against the Diamondbacks after straining his left oblique, and word is it'll be at least six weeks until the ace could potentially return.
The Brewers’ initial expectation is that Brandon Woodruff will miss six weeks with his oblique injury.
— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) July 22, 2019
This is a costly blow to a team in the thick of the playoff race. As it stands, the Brewers hold a half game lead over the second wildcard spot at 53-48, and are only a half game behind the Nationals for the top spot.
A blow to their starting rotation could be devastating, especially considering the season Woodruff is having. The third-year big leaguer, in his first campaign as a starter, is 11-3 with a 3.75 ERA and 136 strikeouts in 20 starts.
RHP Brandon Woodruff has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a left oblique strain. RHP Burch Smith was recalled from Triple-A San Antonio. pic.twitter.com/4SWRpSayrw
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) July 22, 2019
The injury could also adjust the Brewers' deadline plans, as another arm could be important as they hit the home stretch. Chase Anderson has pitched well, but the rest of Milwaukee's rotation has been suspect at best.
If the Brew Crew wants to play late into October again this season, it'll be crucial for them to weather the storm while they await Woodruff's return.