The Milwaukee Brewers are getting ready to face the St. Louis Cardinals, as they prepare for the matchup with an 18-16 record. Holding an above .500 mark, they are pushing to stay competitive in their tough division.
Right-handed pitcher Brandon Woodruff is going into his ninth season with the Brewers. He recently signed a one-year, $22.025 million contract ahead of the 2026 season, providing the veteran leadership they needed.
It was considered a risky move given his past injury history, including a torn anterior capsule in his shoulder in 2023, a lat strain in 2025 and now, shoulder inflammation he suffered in the second inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks in April, which placed him on the 15-day injured list.
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In six starts this season, Woodruff has logged a 3.60 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 25 strikeouts across 30 innings, showing a slight dip from his peak form but still providing quality innings.
According to Adam McCalvy of MLB.com, Woodruff underwent a minor procedure to drain fluid from his shoulder and is trending toward a return to the mound Saturday. Brewers manager Pat Murphy said Woodruff will likely need only a couple of bullpen sessions before rejoining the rotation.
That is encouraging news for Milwaukee, which is looking to stabilize its starting staff and maintain depth. When healthy, Woodruff brings a power fastball, sharp cutter, effective changeup and strong command that limits walks.
Woodruff's return would provide a major boost to the Brewers’ starting staff while restoring valuable veteran presence in the clubhouse.
Originally drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2011 and later selected by Milwaukee in the 11th round of the 2014 MLB Draft, Woodruff has developed into a key arm. The two-time All-Star also finished fifth in Cy Young Award voting in 2021, highlighting his impact.
