All-Star beginning outfielder Christian Yelich not too long ago introduced that he’ll endure season-ending again surgical procedure, considerably impacting the Brewers’ sturdy season. With them on monitor to win the NL Central, Yelich’s absence can be a serious blow to the lineup as they purpose for a postseason bid and past.
“It wasn’t getting higher, tried every part I may, ran out of choices and it got here time to decide, so surgical procedures scheduled. Simply was the most suitable choice, that we actually had left. It sucks , there’s actually no different technique to put it aside from it sucks, it is horrible,” Yelich mentioned in his announcement on Instagram.
Earlier than the harm, Yelich boasted a .315 batting common, the best within the NL.
In response to the loss, Milwaukee searches for what participant(s) will step as much as fill within the footwear of Yelich.
Jackson Chourio
Since July 24 (19 video games) .354/.393/.595, 5 HR, 13 RBI, 4 SB
Jackson Chourio has been on a rare run within the second half of the season, particularly since Yelich’s harm. He’s solely the second rookie in franchise historical past to attain 15 house runs and 15 stolen bases in a single season, becoming a member of Ryan Braun from 2007. For the reason that All-Star break, Chourio boasts a .365 batting common, the second-highest within the majors within the span. The previous No. 1 prospect shouldn’t be solely assembly expectations however has additionally emerged as the important thing consider filling the void left by Yelich’s absence.
Garrett Mitchell
Since July 24 (20 video games) .222/.323/.333, 1 HR, 3 RBI
After beginning the yr sidelined with a fractured left hand, Garrett Mitchell has returned to the Brewers lineup as a daily starter. The 2020 first-round draft decide has confronted a collection of accidents since his debut in 2022, enjoying only a complete of 47 video games throughout his rookie and sophomore seasons. Regardless of lacking the beginning of the season this yr, he has already appeared in 37 video games. Although his statistics could appear modest, he nonetheless has so much to show, having performed solely 81 video games over the previous three years. As a left-handed hitter, Mitchell has been given extra alternatives to start out within the lineup. Outdoors of the bat, his glove is probably the most distinguished issue to his sport, and the principle cause why supervisor Pat Murphy leans to giving him extra time within the beginning lineup.
Sal Frelick
Since July 24 (19 video games) .220/.281/.271, 3 RBI
Sal Frelick has been a fixture within the Brewers’ lineup this season, enjoying in 110 of 121 video games. With Yelich formally out for the yr, Frelick’s position turns into much more essential. Though he is posted a .259 batting common and .333 on-base proportion for the season, he has struggled not too long ago, hitting simply .220 with a .281 on-base proportion since July 24. Nevertheless, like Mitchell, Frelick’s distinctive defensive abilities proceed to make him a invaluable asset, as he constantly delivers highlight-reel performs. Because the Brewers enter a vital stretch for the division title, he might want to rediscover offensive rhythm to assist propel Milwaukee towards success.
Blake Perkins
Since July 24 (12 video games).357/.387/.3936 RBI, 3 SB
Blake Perkins has been a gentle performer for the Brewers in 90 video games this season. As a switch-hitter, he is posted a .257 batting common and a .330 on-base proportion, whereas contributing six house runs and 34 RBI. Along with his offensive contributions, Perkins brings an distinctive defensive presence to the outfield, commonly making highlight-reel performs together with his leather-based. Presently on the 10-day IL as of Aug. 12 because of a proper calf pressure, he can be a vital asset when he returns, providing each reliability on the plate and stand-out protection to bolster the lineup.