The Milwaukee Brewers announced today that right-hander Jacob Misiorowski has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a left tibia contusion, with the designation retroactive to July 31. Right-hander Logan Henderson has been recalled to take Misiorowski’s place on the active roster.
Misiorowski was slated to start today’s game against the Nationals but will instead miss time due to this injury. While the fact that the injury does not involve his arm is advantageous for fans, the absence of such a key player could pose challenges for the Brewers as they battle for position in the competitive NL Central, currently leading by just two games over the Chicago Cubs. Although his injury may be a setback, if it only sidelines him for the minimum timeframe, there’s a chance he could return for the series against the Reds on August 15.
The Brewers are optimistic that Misiorowski’s injury is minor. Despite some controversy over his All-Star selection given his limited major league experience, he has made a mark with a 2.70 ERA, a 3.10 FIP, and an impressive strikeout rate of 36.4% over 33 1/3 innings this season. Although his 10.9% walk rate is notably elevated for a starter, his dominant fastball, which averages 99 mph, compensates for these control issues.
In addition to Misiorowski’s injury, the Brewers are grappling with other setbacks. Star outfielder Jackson Chourio is on the injured list with a hamstring strain that may keep him sidelined until September, and Sal Frelick was removed from a recent game due to knee soreness, although this is deemed precautionary. The team’s health appears to be a concern following a quiet trade deadline, during which they only added backup catcher Danny Jansen and injured right-hander Shelby Miller, while trading away starter Nestor Cortes Jr.
With Misiorowski unavailable, Henderson will take the mound in his absence. The young pitcher recently debuted in the majors and has performed well, boasting a 1.71 ERA and a 3.05 FIP in his four appearances. As he steps into this increased role, potentially against the Nationals, fans hope that Henderson can continue to impress and help the Brewers maintain their standing in a fiercely competitive division.
This situation presents an opportunity for Henderson to solidify his place in the rotation during a critical juncture of the season, as the Brewers navigate through injuries while striving for postseason success.