UPDATE: The Milwaukee Brewers have just placed starting shortstop Joey Ortiz on the 10-day injured list due to a strained left hamstring, creating a significant gap for the NL Central leaders. This announcement came shortly after the Brewers secured a 4-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs on August 24, 2023.
Ortiz, 27, suffered the injury while grounding out in the fifth inning, leaving the team scrambling for a replacement. Manager Pat Murphy confirmed that Ortiz’s injury is classified as a low-grade strain, suggesting he may not be sidelined for an extended period. Ortiz has had a notable season, hitting .233 with seven homers, 43 RBIs, and 11 steals across 125 games, including a stellar .343 batting average and .830 OPS this August.
“I felt like I was finally kind of getting a groove going, especially offensively,” Ortiz expressed, emphasizing his frustration. “Things happen. It’s baseball. It’s going to happen. I’ve just got to do what I can to get back.”
In Ortiz’s absence, Andruw Monasterio will step in as the Brewers’ primary shortstop. Monasterio, 28, has contributed with a .254 batting average, two homers, and 11 RBIs in 43 games this season. The Brewers are counting on him to maintain stability in the infield during this critical stretch of the season.
Additionally, the team has reinstated first baseman/outfielder Jake Bauers from the injured list after he dealt with a left shoulder impingement since mid-July. The 29-year-old Bauers has struggled this season, posting a .197 average with five homers and 18 RBIs in 59 games. He voiced his relief at returning, stating, “Since April, May, I’ve been dealing with it.”
Outfielder Jackson Chourio is also on the mend, currently assigned to a rehabilitation stint with Triple-A Nashville. The 21-year-old hasn’t played since straining his right hamstring on July 29. Murphy emphasized the need for Chourio to be fully prepared before returning to the majors, saying, “He’s got to be able to get comfortable standing on the diamond back-to-back days.”
As the Brewers navigate this injury setback, fans will be eager to see how the team adapts. With the playoffs approaching, every game counts, and the Brewers are determined to keep their winning momentum. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as Ortiz’s recovery progresses. Stay tuned for the latest developments as the Brewers strive to maintain their position at the top of the NL Central.