Full Breakdown
Quinn Priester to Begin Season on Injured List Due to Wrist Injury
3/14/2026, 11:05:33 PM
Injury Diagnosis and Recovery Timeline
Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Quinn Priester will start the 2026 season on the injured list due to a right wrist issue linked to thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). Manager Pat Murphy confirmed that Priester has been experiencing discomfort since August of the previous season and has not pitched during spring training. The injury was diagnosed by a vascular specialist in Dallas, who indicated that Priester's condition is the least severe of three TOS-related issues and may be treated without surgery. Priester expressed optimism about his recovery, stating, "I think in my head late April or May, but I certainly think I'm on the optimistic side."
Performance Background
Priester, 25, had a notable performance in the previous season after being acquired from the Boston Red Sox in early April. He achieved a record of 13 wins and 3 losses, with a 3.32 ERA over 29 appearances, including 24 starts. His impressive run included a club-record 12-game winning streak and contributed to the Brewers winning 19 consecutive games in which he pitched. Despite his success, Priester faced challenges in the postseason, struggling in a Game 3 loss to the Chicago Cubs but performing well against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL Championship Series.
Treatment and Future Outlook
The Brewers are hopeful that Priester can avoid surgery and recover through treatment. Murphy noted that while thoracic outlet syndrome often requires surgical intervention, the team is optimistic about Priester's chances of returning to form. Priester has been able to throw lightly off a mound and has a bullpen session scheduled for March 21, just days before the season opener on March 26. He emphasized the importance of a careful recovery process, stating, "It's a long season... get back as fast as possible -- but as smart as possible."
Criticism and Concerns
While the Brewers remain hopeful about Priester's recovery, there is concern regarding the long-term implications of thoracic outlet syndrome, which can often lead to extended absences for athletes. The decision to manage the injury without surgery has drawn scrutiny, as some experts suggest that early surgical intervention may lead to better outcomes for similar conditions.
Official Statements
Brewers manager Pat Murphy stated, "Often, thoracic outlet requires surgery. But in this case, we're not there. We're feeling like there's a chance that he's going to come through this." Priester himself expressed relief at finally understanding the nature of his injury, indicating that having a clear path forward is beneficial for his recovery.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think in my head late April or May, but I certainly think I'm on the optimistic side -- as a player, I want to be back as quick as possible,” — Quinn Priester, Milwaukee Brewers Pitcher
- “But in this case, we’re not there. We’re feeling like there’s a chance that he’s going to come through this.” — Pat Murphy, Brewers Manager
As the Brewers prepare for the season without Priester, the focus will be on his recovery and the potential impact on the team's pitching rotation.
