Brandon Woodruff's journey through the past few seasons has been a challenging one, marked by a series of untimely injuries. After being limited to just 11 starts in 2023 due to a shoulder capsule issue that required surgery, Woodruff missed the postseason.
The following year was all about recovery, and by 2025, he was cautiously reintroduced to the mound, making his return on July 6. Unfortunately, a lat strain later in the season curtailed his campaign after only 12 starts, sidelining him once again during the playoffs.
As the 2026 season approaches, the Milwaukee Brewers are facing the possibility of starting without Woodruff for the third consecutive Opening Day. The organization, along with Woodruff, is taking a measured approach to his comeback.
Brewers manager Murphy highlighted the team's cautious strategy, stating, “We’re just going slow by design. We’d love to have him available for Opening Day, especially with the inexperience in our starting staff.” This sentiment underscores the importance of Woodruff's health over immediate availability.
Woodruff himself is focused on the long game, expressing that his main goal is to stay healthy when it truly counts. “Opening Day is up in the air right now,” he admitted.
“My priority is to be healthy. I want to be available at the end of the year when it matters most.”
For Brewers fans, Woodruff's uncertain status is a concern, but the organization is clearly prioritizing his long-term health. Ensuring that their seasoned right-hander is fit for the crucial stages of the season is paramount, even if it means a delayed start.