BREAKING: Christian Yelich is back in action for the Milwaukee Brewers after missing five games due to lower back soreness. The 33-year-old outfielder made his return on Monday night as the Brewers kicked off a crucial three-game series against the playoff-contending Texas Rangers in Arlington, Texas.
Yelich, who has been a key player for the Brewers this season, batted fourth in the lineup. Before his absence, he had participated in 132 of Milwaukee’s 144 games, boasting impressive stats of a .268 batting average, 27 home runs, and 92 RBIs. This comeback is particularly significant as Yelich only played 73 games last year due to a serious back surgery.
Brewers manager Pat Murphy expressed gratitude for Yelich’s resilience:
“Feels good, wants to play. It’s an amazing thing that he’s played so many games… it’s amazing that it hadn’t happened yet, so we have to be thankful.”
Yelich’s last-minute scratch before a 6-3 victory over Philadelphia last Wednesday raised concerns, particularly as he had been experiencing pain since late last month during a series against Arizona. Remarkably, he had managed to play through 22 consecutive games prior to his absence.
Murphy noted Yelich’s eagerness to return:
“He came to me today and said, ‘I’m in there, right?'”
His leadership and determination to get back on the field are crucial as the Brewers push for a strong finish to the season.
In addition to Yelich’s return, the Brewers welcomed right-hander Grant Anderson back from the injured list, boosting their bullpen ahead of the series. Anderson had been sidelined since August 23 due to right ankle tendinitis. He has a record of 2-5 with a 2.87 ERA in 57 appearances this season, striking out 66 batters over 62.2 innings.
Meanwhile, the Brewers continue to navigate injuries, with All-Star closer Trevor Megill, along with several other pitchers, still on the injured list. Murphy confirmed that Megill is set to throw a simulated game on Tuesday in hopes of a swift return.
As the Brewers aim for a playoff spot, every game is crucial, making Yelich’s health and performance even more significant. Stay tuned for further updates as the series unfolds and the playoff race intensifies.
