MILWAUKEE — Brandon Woodruff will take the mound for the Milwaukee Brewers’ fifth game of the season, a significant boost for a pitching rotation navigating early uncertainties. The two-time All-Star avoided a potential stint on the injured list, a relief for both the team and fans eager to see him return after a late-season injury sidelined him during the playoffs. Woodruff’s presence provides a much-needed veteran arm as the Brewers commence their pursuit of a fourth consecutive National League Central title.
The Brewers announced Monday that Woodruff is scheduled to start against the Tampa Bay Rays on March 31. This confirmation comes after a spring training focused on building back strength following a left shoulder strain that prematurely ended his 2023 season. The injury raised concerns about a possible delayed start to the 2024 campaign, but Woodruff successfully demonstrated his readiness during exhibition games.
“Personally, I felt good,” Woodruff said before Monday night’s exhibition game against the Cincinnati Reds at American Family Field, as reported by the Associated Press. “I was building up. My pitch count is probably a little lower than some guys coming out of spring training, but I felt like I was recovering well. I felt like my stuff was there and progressing. I didn’t necessarily desire to go down to the minor leagues, that’s kind of where I was at.”
Navigating Early Rotation Challenges
Woodruff’s availability is particularly crucial given the current state of the Brewers’ pitching staff. The team will be without right-hander Quinn Priester at the start of the season. Priester, who posted a 13-3 record with a 3.32 ERA last year, is dealing with a nerve issue, according to manager Pat Murphy. Murphy anticipates Priester could return in early May, pending his recovery. The Brewers initially linked Priester’s issue to a wrist problem and ultimately diagnosed it as partially related to thoracic outlet syndrome, a condition affecting the nerves and blood vessels in the space between the collarbone and the first rib.
The Brewers’ rotation will initially feature a mix of established players and emerging talent. Chad Patrick, who made 15 appearances as a rookie last season, will start the season opener against the Chicago White Sox on Thursday. Brandon Sproat, acquired in a trade with the New York Mets last year, will take the mound for the final two games of the White Sox series. Left-hander Kyle Harrison, who came to Milwaukee in a trade with the Boston Red Sox, is slated to start the first game of the series against the Rays on Monday.
A Rotation Built on Potential
Sproat, 25, will be making his fifth career start. Patrick, 27, finished his rookie season with a 3-8 record and a 3.53 ERA in 27 appearances. Harrison, 23, has made 42 appearances but remains relatively early in his career. The Brewers’ rotation, while promising, lacks the extensive experience that Woodruff brings to the table.
Woodruff’s return is made even more significant by his decision to accept the Brewers’ qualifying offer of $22.025 million during the offseason, as reported by the Associated Press. This commitment demonstrates his dedication to the team and provides stability to the pitching staff. He’ll be counted on to mentor the younger pitchers and provide a steadying presence as the team navigates a competitive season.
The team also features right-handed pitcher Jacob Misiorowski, a highly touted prospect. His development will be closely watched as the season progresses. The Brewers’ pitching depth will be tested throughout the year, and the performance of these young arms will be critical to their success.
Looking Ahead
The Brewers are banking on Woodruff’s experience and leadership to guide the pitching staff through the early part of the season. His ability to consistently deliver quality starts will be essential as the team aims to defend its division title. The team’s success will depend on the collective performance of the rotation, as well as the contributions from the bullpen and the offense.
“I think that’s an encouraging sign, right?” Murphy said, according to the Associated Press. “We weren’t expecting him to be here this early, but the way it’s going, he feels good and ready. You’ve got to trust the player.”
The Brewers will continue to monitor Priester’s progress and provide updates on his expected return. The team is optimistic that he will be able to contribute later in the season. For now, the focus is on getting Woodruff comfortable and building momentum as they embark on their quest for a fourth consecutive National League Central Division title.
Fans can find the latest updates on the Brewers’ schedule and roster on the team’s official website: https://www.mlb.com/brewers.
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