Christian Yelich to Miss Remainder of 2024 Season Due to Back Surgery
Milwaukee Brewers' outfielder Christian Yelich will sit out the rest of the 2024 MLB season, as he is set to undergo season-ending back surgery. The procedure, scheduled for Friday, was announced on Thursday by both Yelich and the Brewers. This decision comes after ongoing back issues that have significantly affected the former MVP’s career.
Yelich's last appearance on the field was on July 23. Despite his struggles with lower back inflammation, he had been enjoying a stellar season, showcasing a remarkable bounceback performance. With a .315/.406/.504 slash line, 11 home runs, and 21 stolen bases over 73 games, Yelich posted a 152 OPS+, indicating a return to form after battling health issues in recent years.
"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."
This procedure will be performed by Dr. Brandon Rebholz, who aims to correct the persistent issues that have sidelined Yelich on multiple occasions throughout his career. Yelich’s history of back problems has been well-documented, and this is another step in a prolonged effort to reclaim his dominant form and contributions to the team.
Before his injury, Yelich was a critical component of the Brewers' lineup. His absence leaves a gap in the outfield and the batting order. Milwaukee's regular lineup includes fellow left-handed hitters like Jake Bauers, Tyler Black, Sal Frelick, Garrett Mitchell, and Brice Turang. Despite efforts, the team was unable to secure a left-handed bat before the July 30 trade deadline, making Yelich’s loss even more significant.
Nevertheless, the Brewers have managed an 11-9 record since Yelich's absence, a testament to their depth and resilience. With an overall standing of 69-52, they hold a commanding nine-game lead in the NL Central, the largest division lead in baseball.
Yelich expressed his sentiments on missing the remainder 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."
The Brewers' roster depth and current standings suggest that the team is well-prepared to meet the challenge posed by Yelich’s absence. His contributions on the field will be missed, but the organization and fans remain optimistic about the future.
This year marks the fifth of the nine-year, $215 million contract extension Yelich signed in March 2020. Under this contract, he will earn $26 million annually from 2025 to 2028, with a $20 million mutual option for the 2029 season. Although his defensive metrics have graded him as below average recently, his offensive capabilities when healthy are indisputable.
Yelich concluded his statement with a message of gratitude and determination: "Thank you for all your support. Go Brewers!"
As the Brewers push toward the postseason, they will do so without one of their key players. Fans, teammates, and the organization will undoubtedly rally around Yelich, hoping for his full recovery and return to the field in 2025.