UPDATE: The Milwaukee Brewers have placed veteran right-hander Shelby Miller on the 60-day injured list, raising concerns about a potential second Tommie John surgery following a sprained ulnar collateral ligament in his throwing elbow. This critical news comes as Miller expressed urgency about his situation during a press conference on Wednesday.
Miller, who turns 35 next month, revealed that he will consult with Dr. Keith Meister regarding his MRI results and the next steps in his recovery. “Surgery seems like a realistic option,” Miller stated, highlighting the severity of his condition and its potential impact on his baseball career.
After feeling a pop in his elbow while pitching during the eighth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday, Miller was immediately removed from the game. Milwaukee manager Pat Murphy expressed his disappointment, stating, “Here’s a veteran who comes to a new team, earning the total respect of everybody… But I’m more crushed for the guy.”
With Miller joining fellow Brewers relievers on the injured list, including Trevor Megill (right flexor strain) and DL Hall (right oblique), the team faces mounting pressure as they lead the NL Central by five games over the Chicago Cubs.
Miller’s absence is particularly poignant as he aimed to contribute significantly to the Brewers’ playoff push for their first World Series title in franchise history. He reflected on his future, admitting, “I’m definitely probably going to miss next year… We’ll see how my arm feels, see where I’m at in my life.”
In a corresponding move, Joel Payamps has been called up from Triple-A Nashville to bolster the bullpen. Miller, who has struggled with a 5.59 ERA in 11 appearances since being traded from the Arizona Diamondbacks, expressed a mix of hope and realism about his career. “A second TJ’s never easy,” he warned, acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead.
The Brewers are now in a critical phase of the season, and fans are left to ponder how Miller’s potential absence will affect their championship aspirations. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and we learn more about Miller’s condition and the Brewers’ strategy moving forward.