Just as the Milwaukee Brewers are revving up for the final playoff push in what’s turning into a neck-and-neck race with the Cubs, they’ve been dealt another gut punch. Right-hander Jacob Misiorowski, one of the brightest young arms in the game and a huge part of the Brewers’ recent success, is hitting the 15-day injured list thanks to a left tibia contusion. And yes, it’s retroactive to July 31, but that doesn’t make it sting any less.
Not the Arm, But Still a Big Blow for Brewers
Let’s get the good news out of the way first: it’s not his arm. Thank goodness, because if there’s one thing you don’t want to mess with in a power pitcher throwing 99 mph on average, it’s anything from the shoulder to the wrist. But still, a leg injury isn’t just about walking—it’s about delivery, balance, push-off, and stamina. That leg is part of what makes his elite velocity possible. So even if fans can breathe a little easier, there’s still reason to keep a wary eye on how quickly he can get back.
Misiorowski, for those just joining the party, is the real deal. He is averaging a 2.70 ERA in 33 1/3 innings, a mind-boggling 36.4% strikeout rate. He’s basically been the Brewers’ secret weapon, and even his elevated walk rate of 10.9% hasn’t derailed him. The fastball explodes, the slider bites, and even though his All-Star nod came after only five big-league games, well… who’s laughing now?
Henderson Gets the Spotlight in Crucial Start
Now, with Misiorowski sidelined, enter Logan Henderson. The 21-year-old rookies had a taste of the big leagues and made the most of it: 1.71 ERA and nearly 36% K-rate in four spot starts? That’s not a fluke—that’s a statement. He’ll take the mound on Sunday in what’s shaping up to be a high-stakes showdown against the Nationals, and make no mistake, this is his shot to prove he belongs for good.
And it’s not just Misiorowski that’s MIA. Jackson Chourio, the star outfielder? Hamstring strain, and don’t expect him back till September. Sal Frelick? Pulled from Friday’s game with knee soreness. Sure, the Brewers are calling it “precautionary,” but let’s be real—this team is walking wounded at a time when every game counts double.
Quiet Deadline Leaves Depth Questions Unanswered
To add salt to the wound? The trade deadline passed with a whimper. Backup catcher Danny Jansen is the only major acquisition. Shelby Miller’s still hurt, and they traded away Nestor Cortes Jr.—a reliable starter—for what, exactly? A shrug and a couple of prospects?
This team has more wins than anyone in baseball, yet they’re just two games up on the Cubs. And now, their breakout ace and two of their top outfielders are watching from the dugout. You can almost feel the tension in Milwaukee.
Henderson’s start on Sunday? It’s not just a game. It’s a spotlight. It’s a message. And if he shines, he might just help keep the Brewers’ season from spiraling.
