The Milwaukee Brewers face a significant challenge following the announcement that outfielder Christian Yelich will miss the remainder of the 2024 MLB season due to a season-ending back surgery. The procedure, scheduled for Friday, will be performed by Dr. Brandon Rebholz, as revealed on Thursday by Yelich and the Brewers.
Yelich has grappled with ongoing back problems throughout much of his career, and this latest setback has proven severe enough to necessitate surgical intervention. He last appeared in a game on July 23, marking the end of what was shaping up to be a remarkable bounce-back season. Yelich's pre-injury performance included a .315/.406/.504 slash line, 11 home runs, and 21 stolen bases over 73 games, translating to a splendid 152 OPS+.
"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."
This marks another chapter in Yelich's chronic battle with back issues. The latest bout of lower back inflammation has been a persistent issue since July, and the Brewers had to navigate the remainder of the season without their star outfielder. Their efforts to secure a left-handed hitter to replace Yelich before the July 30 trade deadline proved unsuccessful, leaving the team to adapt in his absence.
Despite this setback, the Brewers have managed an 11-9 record since Yelich's injury and currently boast a commendable 69-52 overall standing. The team's performance has afforded them a nine-game lead in the NL Central, which is the largest division lead in baseball at this juncture.
Yelich's contributions were not only pivotal at the plate; his absence is felt in the outfield as well. Yet, at this stage of his career, defensive metrics have graded Yelich out as below average. The Brewers' lineup still features a number of left-handed hitters, including Jake Bauers, Tyler Black, Sal Frelick, Garrett Mitchell, and Brice Turang, demonstrating the team's depth and resilience.
"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."
This year marks the fifth of the nine-year, $215 million contract extension Yelich signed back in March 2020. He stands to earn $26 million annually from 2025 to 2028, with a $20 million mutual option for 2029, underscoring the long-term investment the Brewers have made in the former MVP.
The team has shown they are prepared to tackle this challenge. Their deep roster indicates a preparedness to manage without Yelich, ensuring they remain competitive in their pursuit of postseason success.
In his statement, Yelich extended his gratitude to those who have supported him through his journey. "Thank you for all your support. Go Brewers!"
As the Brewers continue their 2024 campaign, the focus will undoubtedly be on maintaining their strong standing in the league. Yelich's successful recovery and return to full health will be eagerly anticipated as the team looks ahead to future seasons.