URGENT UPDATE: The Milwaukee Brewers’ injury woes deepen as right-hander Nick Mears has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to back tightness. This announcement came just before their critical matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates on September 1, 2023. Mears’ placement is retroactive to Tuesday, intensifying concerns for the Brewers’ bullpen.
The team has swiftly responded by recalling Carlos Rodríguez from Triple-A Nashville. Rodríguez, 23, has struggled in his brief stint with Milwaukee, holding a 9.95 ERA across two appearances. However, he has demonstrated promise in the minors, sporting a 3.86 ERA with one save in 15 games.
Mears’ injury adds to a growing list of Brewers’ relievers currently sidelined. All-Star closer Trevor Megill is dealing with a right flexor strain, while left-hander DL Hall is out with a right oblique injury. Right-handers Grant Anderson and Shelby Miller are also on the injured list due to a right ankle and right elbow issue, respectively. Miller’s situation is particularly dire, as he’s facing a potential second Tommmy John surgery after landing on the 60-day IL earlier this week.
Milwaukee entered Friday’s game boasting the best record in Major League Baseball, leading the NL Central by 5.5 games over the Chicago Cubs. With injuries piling up, the team remains hopeful for a swift recovery for Megill, who could return by mid-September. Anderson is slated to throw an inning in a rehabilitation assignment Saturday, while Hall’s potential return is projected for late September.
Mears has had a solid season thus far, recording a 5-3 record and a 3.42 earned run average over 59 appearances, striking out 43 batters in 52 2/3 innings. The mounting injuries could pose a significant challenge as the Brewers aim to maintain their lead in the playoff race.
Fans and analysts are urged to stay tuned for further updates on the ongoing situation within the Brewers’ roster as the team navigates this critical phase of the season.
