BREAKING: The Milwaukee Brewers have announced that right-hander Nick Mears has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to back tightness. This news comes just before their game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on September 1, 2023. Mears’ injury is retroactive to August 29, adding to the Brewers’ growing list of sidelined relievers.
The Brewers quickly responded by recalling Carlos Rodríguez from Triple-A Nashville. Rodríguez, who is 23, has had a mixed record, boasting a 9.95 ERA in two games with Milwaukee but showing promise with a 3.86 ERA in 15 games for Nashville.
Mears, now 28, has contributed significantly this season with a record of 5-3 and a 3.42 ERA across 59 appearances, striking out 43 batters over 52.2 innings. His absence is particularly impactful as he joins fellow relievers including All-Star closer Trevor Megill (right flexor strain), DL Hall (right oblique), and Grant Anderson (right ankle) on the injured list. Notably, Shelby Miller was placed on the 60-day injured list due to a sprained ulnar collateral ligament, raising concerns about a potential second Tommy John surgery.
As the Brewers lead the National League Central by 5.5 games over the Chicago Cubs, the timing of these injuries could have significant ramifications for their playoff ambitions. The team remains optimistic, with Megill aiming for a mid-September return, while Anderson is expected to appear in a rehabilitation assignment this weekend. Hall may also rejoin the roster by late September.
The Brewers entered Friday’s matchup with the best record in Major League Baseball, making their current situation even more pressing. Fans are eager to see how the team will navigate these challenges as they push toward the postseason.
Stay tuned for updates on Mears’ condition and the Brewers’ efforts to maintain their lead despite these injuries.