Brandon Woodruff Set to Start Season for Milwaukee Brewers

Milwaukee Brewers' right-hander Brandon Woodruff is confirmed to start the team's fifth game of the season against the Tampa Bay Rays on March 31, 2024. This announcement comes as a relief for the Brewers, who are facing a rotation that lacks experience. Woodruff, a two-time All-Star, had been recovering from a lat strain that sidelined him during the postseason, raising concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season.

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Woodruff's return is crucial for the Brewers, especially with fellow pitcher Quinn Priester expected to miss the start of the season due to a nerve issue related to thoracic outlet syndrome. Manager Pat Murphy indicated that Priester might return by early May if his recovery progresses well. The absence of Priester places additional pressure on Woodruff, who is the most experienced pitcher in the rotation at 33 years old.

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The Brewers' starting rotation will feature several young pitchers alongside Woodruff. Jacob Misiorowski, who made 15 appearances as a rookie last season, will take the mound for the season opener against the Chicago White Sox. Other pitchers include Chad Patrick and Brandon Sproat, both of whom are relatively inexperienced, with Sproat making only his fifth career start. Kyle Harrison, another young lefty, will also be part of the rotation after being acquired in a trade with the Boston Red Sox.

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Manager Pat Murphy expressed optimism regarding Woodruff's condition, stating, "I think it's an encouraging sign... the way it was going, it went so well in terms of he feels great, and he feels like he's ready." Woodruff himself noted, "I felt like personally I was in a good spot... I felt like the stuff was there and coming along."

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While the Brewers are hopeful about Woodruff's return, some analysts have raised concerns about the overall depth and experience of the pitching staff. The reliance on younger, less proven pitchers could pose challenges as the team aims for a fourth consecutive NL Central title.

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As the Brewers prepare for the season, they will closely monitor Woodruff's performance and the development of their younger pitchers. The team's success will depend significantly on how well they can navigate the early part of the season without Priester and with a rotation that is still finding its footing.

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