Christian Yelich to Miss Remainder of 2024 Season Due to Back Surgery
In a significant blow to the Milwaukee Brewers, star outfielder Christian Yelich is set to miss the remainder of the 2024 Major League Baseball season. Yelich will undergo season-ending back surgery on Friday, as announced jointly by him and the Brewers on Thursday.
The announcement came as Yelich continues to grapple with persistent back issues that have plagued his career. The surgical procedure, which will be performed by Dr. Brandon Rebholz, aims to address Yelich’s ongoing lower back inflammation that has sidelined him since July 23.
“After careful consideration and consultation with medical personnel, I have decided to undergo season-ending back surgery,” stated Yelich. “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.”
This season has been an impressive comeback for Yelich, who was posting a noteworthy .315/.406/.504 slash line, with 11 home runs and 21 stolen bases over 73 games before his injury. His stellar performance translated to an outstanding 152 OPS+, showcasing that Yelich was once again a formidable presence at the plate.
Despite battling a history of back problems, Yelich had been an integral part of the Brewers' lineup. This year marks the fifth of his nine-year, $215 million contract extension signed in March 2020, with Yelich set to earn $26 million annually from 2025 to 2028. The contract also includes a $20 million mutual option for 2029.
The Road Ahead for the Brewers
With Yelich’s absence, the Brewers will lean on their deep roster, which includes left-handed hitters such as Jake Bauers, Tyler Black, Sal Frelick, Garrett Mitchell, and Brice Turang. Yelich’s defensive metrics had already begun to grade him below average, making the contributions from these younger players even more critical down the stretch.
The Brewers attempted to secure a left-handed hitter before the July 30 trade deadline to bolster their lineup in Yelich’s absence but were unable to finalize a deal. In spite of this, the team has managed to compile an 11-9 record since Yelich last played, a testament to their depth and resilience.
Currently, the Brewers hold a 69-52 record and boast the largest division lead in baseball, with a nine-game advantage in the NL Central. This cushion gives the team some breathing room as they adapt to life without their star outfielder for the rest of the season.
Yelich’s Dedication to the Team
“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 words underscore his commitment to the Brewers and his belief in the team's potential to succeed, even in his absence. His optimism and support from the sidelines will no doubt serve as motivation for his teammates as they look to secure a strong finish to the season.
“Thank you for all your support. Go Brewers!” Yelich concluded, showing his appreciation for the fans who have stood by him and the team.
While Yelich’s surgery is undoubtedly a setback, both for him personally and for the Brewers, the organization remains poised to continue their competitive push. With a solid roster and a substantial division lead, Milwaukee fans have every reason to remain hopeful as their team eyes a postseason berth, bolstered by the collective efforts of players stepping up in Yelich’s stead.