Brandon Woodruff, a Brewers pitcher sidelined by shoulder inflammation since July, has confirmed he will not require the previously planned surgery on his right shoulder. Following a positive four-week scan, he will begin a five-week throwing progression instead of undergoing a season-ending operation. While there鈥檚 a slim possibility of returning to the mound in 2026, team manager Pat Murphy emphasizes that actual recovery will determine whether that prospect is realistic. This news comes after a difficult period marked by prior injuries and surgeries, where the conclusion of Woodruff's career was considered imminent.

By the Numbers
  • Woodruff had a 2.98 ERA over nine starts by July.
  • He underwent shoulder surgery in October 2023, with a recovery time of around 20 months.
State of Play
  • Woodruff is beginning a five-week throwing progression after avoiding surgery.
  • Manager Murphy remains cautiously optimistic about a potential return in 2026.
What's Next

Woodruff will begin his throwing progression this week, with his recovery's success determining any future involvement in games. The Brewers will carefully monitor his rehabilitation process, weighing the risks as he transitions back to pitching.

Bottom Line

Avoiding surgery could significantly impact Woodruff's career, offering him a chance for a comeback when many believed that chapter might be closing. His recovery will be crucial, not just for him but for the Brewers, as they look for reinforcements amid a challenging season.