Milwaukee Brewers' outfielder Christian Yelich is slated to miss the remainder of the 2024 MLB season due to a forthcoming back surgery, scheduled for Friday. This announcement, delivered on Thursday by Yelich and the Brewers, marks the culmination of a protracted battle with back issues that have troubled Yelich for much of his career.
Yelich last graced the field on July 23, but persistent back inflammation has rendered his return this season impossible. The surgery will be performed by Dr. Brandon Rebholz, a specialist who is expected to address the chronic pain and discomfort that have 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."
Before his injury, Yelich was experiencing an impressive resurgence. In the 73 games he played, he posted a .315/.406/.504 slash line and accumulated 11 home runs and 21 stolen bases, translating to a 152 OPS+. These numbers signify a return to form for the talented outfielder, whose career has been hampered by injuries in recent years.
The Brewers, who were unable to secure a left-handed hitter to replace Yelich before the July 30 trade deadline, have nonetheless maintained a respectable performance in his absence, going 11-9 since his injury. Currently, the team holds an overall standing of 69-52, with a commanding nine-game lead in the NL Central—the largest division lead in baseball.
The regular lineup has managed to compensate for Yelich's absence with the contributions of left-handed hitters such as Jake Bauers, Tyler Black, Sal Frelick, Garrett Mitchell, and Brice Turang. This depth has been crucial for the Brewers as they continue their campaign without one of their star players.
Yelich acknowledged the tough decision to step away from the game for the rest of the 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. 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 back problems are not a new development. This bout of lower back inflammation, which began in July, is just the latest in a series of issues that have plagued him. His defensive metrics have also taken a hit, grading him out as below average at this stage of his career.
Since signing a nine-year, $215 million contract extension in March 2020, this year marks the fifth season of that deal. Yelich is set to earn $26 million annually from 2025 to 2028, with a $20 million mutual option for 2029. This financial commitment underscores the Brewers' long-term investment in Yelich, making his health and return to form imperative for the team's future success.
The Brewers' deep roster and current standing, however, suggest they are well-prepared to face this challenge. The resilience of the team and the leadership within the clubhouse will be critical as they navigate the remainder of the season without their star outfielder.
While Yelich's journey this season ends here, his focus is already on the future. Undergoing back surgery is a significant step toward ensuring he returns stronger and healthier. Both Yelich and the Brewers are optimistic about what lies ahead, anticipating a fully recovered player ready to contribute at his highest level in the upcoming season.
As the Brewers press on with their sights set on post-season success, Yelich’s message of support and commitment to recovery resonates. It’s a reminder of the perseverance required in professional sports and the unwavering dedication athletes demonstrate, both on and off the field.