Brandon Woodruff Removed From Start After Velocity Dip
MLB Trade Rumors • • sports
Key Points:
- Brewers pitcher Brandon Woodruff was removed from a game in the second inning due to a significant drop in velocity, with fastballs averaging around 85 mph compared to his usual 93 mph.
- Woodruff reported feeling "dead" but no pain, leading the team to pull him as a precaution; his manager emphasized the importance of not risking long-term damage.
- Woodruff has a history of shoulder issues, including surgery in 2023 and a lat strain in 2025, which have limited his starts and raised concerns about his durability.
- Despite these challenges, Woodruff accepted a $22.025 million qualifying offer to return to Milwaukee for 2026 and had a mixed start to the current season with a 3.77 ERA but reduced strikeout rates.
- The Brewers may rely on minor league call-ups or bullpen arms to fill Woodruff's rotation spot if he requires time on the injured list, with further medical evaluations pending.
