The Milwaukee Brewers' playoff aspirations have taken a significant hit as star outfielder Christian Yelich will miss the remainder of the 2024 MLB season. Yelich, who has been battling persistent back issues that have marred much of his career, is scheduled to undergo season-ending back surgery on Friday.
The announcement came on Thursday from both Yelich and the Brewers, bringing a premature end to what was shaping up to be a remarkable bounceback season for the 32-year-old. Prior to his last appearance on July 23, Yelich registered a .315/.406/.504 slash line, complemented by 11 home runs and 21 stolen bases over 73 games. His performance, translating to an impressive 152 OPS+, highlighted a revitalization in his career.
Yelich's decision to undergo surgery was one made after careful consideration and consultation with medical personnel. "After careful consideration and consultation with medical personnel, I have decided to undergo season-ending back surgery," said Yelich. "I ultimately felt it was in the best interest of myself and the Brewers to have the surgery with the expectation of being back at 100% for next season."
The surgery will be performed by Dr. Brandon Rebholz, offering hope that Yelich can overcome the debilitating back issues that have often sidelined him. This year alone marks the fifth of the nine-year, $215 million contract extension he signed in March 2020, a deal that sees him earning $26 million annually from 2025 to 2028, with a $20 million mutual option for 2029.
Despite Yelich's stellar offensive numbers this season, his defensive metrics have seen a decline, grading him as below average in the field. Nonetheless, his absence from the lineup creates a void that the Brewers will have to manage as they march towards the postseason. As of now, the Brewers stand at an overall record of 69-52 and hold a comfortable nine-game lead in the NL Central, boasting the largest division lead in baseball.
The Brewers' roster is not without its depth, featuring several left-handed hitters such as Jake Bauers, Tyler Black, Sal Frelick, Garrett Mitchell, and Brice Turang. Yet, the organization made efforts to secure a left-handed hitter to replace Yelich before the July 30 trade deadline but were unsuccessful. Since Yelich's injury, the team has managed to keep their head above water with an 11-9 record.
Yelich's latest bout of lower back inflammation, which began in July, doesn't mark the first time he's encountered such issues. His history of back problems has cast a shadow over his otherwise illustrious career. Nevertheless, the Brewers remain hopeful and confident in their collective ability to weather the storm. "We have a very special team here and it will be disappointing not to be able to contribute on the field down the stretch," Yelich expressed. "However, I have the utmost confidence in my teammates and will be cheering them on with all of you, the great fans of Milwaukee."
Indeed, the resilience of Yelich and the Brewers organization will be tested in the coming weeks. "Thank you for all your support. Go Brewers!" Yelich added, reinforcing his commitment to the team's cause despite his physical setback.
As the Brewers continue their push for postseason success without one of their pivotal figures, the focus will pivot to the rest of the squad stepping up and filling the gap left by Yelich. The playoffs are within reach, and Milwaukee's pursuit of glory will forge ahead, script altered but spirit undeterred.