Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Christian Yelich will miss the remainder of the 2024 MLB season due to a season-ending back surgery scheduled for Friday. The announcement came on Thursday from Yelich and the Brewers, marking a significant blow for the team as they head into the final stretch of the season.
Yelich’s persistent back issues have been a recurring theme throughout much of his career. Despite managing to stay on the field for a significant portion of this season, his latest bout of lower back inflammation proved too severe to ignore. Yelich last played on July 23, and his absence has been felt on and off the field.
Dr. Brandon Rebholz will perform the procedure, which aims to address the chronic pain and discomfort that have plagued Yelich. "After careful consideration and consultation with medical personnel, I have decided to undergo season-ending back surgery," Yelich said. "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 enjoying a comeback season, hitting .315/.406/.504 with 11 home runs and 21 stolen bases over 73 games, translating to a stellar 152 OPS+. His resurgence at the plate was a key factor in the Brewers' strong performance this year. His absence leaves a notable void in the lineup.
Brewers' Roster Adjustments
The Brewers have leaned on a variety of left-handed hitters like Jake Bauers, Tyler Black, Sal Frelick, Garrett Mitchell, and Brice Turang to fill in the gaps left by Yelich. Despite attempts to secure another left-handed hitter before the July 30 trade deadline, the Brewers were unsuccessful in their pursuit. Nonetheless, the team has managed to maintain a competitive edge, achieving an 11-9 record since Yelich's last game.
"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."
Current Standings and Future Prospects
Despite Yelich's absence, the Brewers currently hold an impressive 69-52 record and boast a nine-game lead in the NL Central, the largest division lead in baseball. This cushion provides some relief as the team navigates the final weeks without one of their star players. The Brewers' deep roster and strong overall performance suggest they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges ahead.
Yelich’s defensive metrics grade him as below average at this point in his career, and his current contract status will see him earn $26 million annually from 2025 to 2028, with a $20 million mutual option for 2029. This year marks the fifth of the nine-year, $215 million contract extension he signed in March 2020, underscoring the long-term commitment between Yelich and the team.
"Thank you for all your support. Go Brewers!" Yelich added, acknowledging the fans' unwavering support. The Brewers continue to press forward, with the hope that Yelich will return healthier and ready to contribute in the 2025 season.