Brewers Would Be Taking Major Risk By Activating Brandon Woodruff For World Series

The Milwaukee Brewers find themselves in a precarious position as they consider activating pitcher Brandon Woodruff for the World Series. Despite being sidelined for most of the season due to a shoulder injury, Woodruff has made a valiant effort to return to the mound. Just before undergoing surgery, his shoulder showed signs of healing, prompting him to commence a throwing progression and eventually participate in a 31-pitch bullpen session at Dodger Stadium. Last Tuesday, he was set to face live hitters, a significant step towards his potential return.

However, the team's decision to activate Woodruff comes with considerable risk. Should he join the World Series roster, he would need to replace one of the 13 pitchers on the National League Championship Series roster, most of which have seen minimal use during the postseason. The primary concern lies in Woodruff's potential for re-injury.

According to the rules, a player can only replace a roster spot if he suffers an acute, non-chronic injury or ailment. The Brewers fear that any subsequent injury may be deemed recurrent or pre-existing, thereby precluding the possibility of adding another pitcher in Woodruff's stead. As reported by The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal, club officials have been in discussions with Major League Baseball to ascertain how this rule might be interpreted.

Woodruff, the franchise's longest-tenured player, may only be capable of pitching in limited capacity, perhaps restricted to one-inning outings. The Brewers must carefully weigh all potential outcomes before deciding to activate the pitcher.