Milwaukee Brewers' outfielder Christian Yelich will miss the remainder of the 2024 MLB season due to an upcoming back surgery. The announcement, made on Thursday by both Yelich and the Brewers, confirmed that the surgery is scheduled for Friday and will be performed by Dr. Brandon Rebholz.
Yelich has been struggling with persistent back issues, which have plagued much of his career. His last game was on July 23, and he has been dealing with lower back inflammation since that time. "After careful consideration and consultation with medical personnel, I have decided to undergo season-ending back surgery," Yelich stated. "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."
Before his injury, Yelich was having a remarkable bounceback season. Over 73 games, he boasted a .315/.406/.504 slash line, with 11 home runs and 21 stolen bases, translating to a stellar 152 OPS+. This resurgence marked a significant improvement, highlighting the potential that had secured him a nine-year, $215 million contract extension in March 2020.
Despite these setbacks, the Brewers have managed to remain competitive. Since Yelich's injury, the team has posted an 11-9 record. They hold an overall standing of 69-52, leading the NL Central by nine games — the largest division lead in baseball. This deep roster suggests that the Brewers are prepared to tackle the challenges ahead without Yelich. However, they did attempt to secure a left-handed hitter to replace him before the July 30 trade deadline but were unsuccessful.
In the meantime, Milwaukee will rely on left-handed hitters like Jake Bauers, Tyler Black, Sal Frelick, Garrett Mitchell, and Brice Turang to fill the gap left by Yelich's absence. The collective efforts of these players will be crucial as the Brewers look to maintain their dominant position in the NL Central.
With Yelich undergoing surgery, his focus now shifts to recovery and preparing for the next season. "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. Thank you for all your support. Go Brewers!"
Yelich's injury brings attention to his long history of back problems. Despite his offensive prowess this season, his defensive metrics have rated him as below average, likely influenced by his ongoing back issues. The decision to undergo surgery reflects a long-term view, prioritizing his health and future contributions to the team.
As Yelich undergoes surgery and embarks on his recovery journey, the Brewers remain focused on their goals. With the largest division lead in baseball and a robust lineup, they are positioned well to navigate the rest of the season and make a strong push into the playoffs. The team's resilience in the face of adversity will be tested, but their current standings and depth suggest they are up for the challenge.