Milwaukee Brewers' outfielder Christian Yelich is set to miss the remainder of the 2024 MLB season due to a season-ending back surgery scheduled for Friday. This announcement was made on Thursday by Yelich and the Brewers organization.
Awarded the National League MVP in 2018, Yelich has been grappling with persistent back issues throughout a significant portion of his career. His latest stint on the injured list began after his last game on July 23, when lower back inflammation once again sidelined the star player.
“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.” Scheduled to be performed by Dr. Brandon Rebholz, the surgical procedure is aimed at resolving the recurring back complications that have marred Yelich's professional journey.
Prior to his injury, Yelich was enjoying a stellar bounce-back season, silencing many of his critics. He boasted an impressive .315/.406/.504 slash line, with 11 home runs and 21 stolen bases over 73 games. His performance had translated to a commendable 152 OPS+, proving instrumental for Milwaukee's offense.
While his on-field contributions will be missed, the Brewers have shown resilience in his absence, posting an 11-9 record since his injury. Milwaukee’s depth in their left-handed lineup, featuring hitters like Jake Bauers, Tyler Black, Sal Frelick, Garrett Mitchell, and Brice Turang, has buffered them from the full impact of Yelich's absence. This depth was tested when the Brewers sought a left-handed hitter to replace Yelich before the July 30 trade deadline but were unable to secure one.
Currently, the Brewers lead the NL Central with a 69-52 overall record, the largest division lead in baseball. "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.”
Yelich's back issues have been a recurring theme, particularly since July, adding to a history of back problems. Now in the fifth year of his nine-year, $215 million contract extension signed in March 2020, Yelich is set to earn $26 million annually from 2025 to 2028. His contract includes a $20 million mutual option for 2029, reflecting the Brewers' long-term commitment to their star outfielder, despite his struggles with injury.
Defense has been another area of concern for Yelich, with metrics grading him as below average at this stage of his career. Nevertheless, his offensive prowess has been invaluable. The Brewers’ ability to remain competitive without Yelich underscores the depth of their roster and their readiness to meet the challenge head-on. “Thank you for all your support. Go Brewers!” Yelich concluded.
As the Brewers aim to solidify their position in the NL Central and prepare for the postseason, the health and future contributions of Christian Yelich remain a crucial narrative for the team and its fanbase. His anticipated return next season, fully recovered, holds promise for continued success for both Yelich and the Brewers.