Will Brandon Woodruff Make the Brewers’ World Series Roster?

Brandon Woodruff Tests Shoulder Ahead of World Series Decision

Milwaukee Brewers right-hander Brandon Woodruff threw a 23-pitch live batting practice session at American Family Field, registering fastballs in the 90-92 mph range as the club evaluates its roster for the Fall Classic. According to MLB.com, it marked the first time the two-time All-Star faced live hitters since suffering a shoulder injury on July 4 that was initially projected to end his season.

The Brewers face a Friday morning roster deadline ahead of Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Rays. President of baseball operations Matt Arnold stated that management is still working through meetings, leaving the final composition of the pitching staff unresolved. Woodruff acknowledged the tight timeline and unique nature of his potential return following months of rehab.

Front Office Weighs Postseason Roster Rules and Replacement Risks

Milwaukee’s front office reached out to Major League Baseball for clarification regarding postseason roster replacement regulations. As reported by The Athletic, the organization holds concerns that under MLB rules, teams cannot replace a player unless he suffers an acute, non-chronic injury during a series. Because Woodruff’s shoulder issue stems from a long-term concern, officials must determine whether a potential setback would leave the club shorthanded.

Teams are permitted to carry 13 pitchers on a postseason series roster. During the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Brewers carried 13 arms, though relievers Kyle Harrison, Chad Patrick, and Antonio Senzatela saw minimal or no action. Harrison represents the 13th pitcher on the depth chart following a difficult second half, giving Milwaukee a decision on whether to risk losing him as a mop-up option if Woodruff is activated for multiple-inning duty.

The Tampa Bay Rays present a specific matchup consideration, having posted a .751 OPS against right-handed pitching compared to a .678 mark against left-handers. Harrison is one of six lefties the Brewers carried on their previous two postseason rosters.

From July Surgery Reversal to Live Batting Practice

Woodruff last appeared in a major league game on July 4, when pain in his surgically repaired shoulder prompted a shutdown and scheduled August surgery. Unexpected healing altered that trajectory, allowing the veteran pitcher to avoid a second major operation on his throwing arm in just over three years. He subsequently completed a high-intensity 31-pitch bullpen session in Los Angeles before advancing to Tuesday’s live session against teammates Jackson Chourio, Brice Turang, William Contreras, Christian Yelich, and Jake Bauers.

As the franchise’s longest-tenured player prepares for the possibility of participating in the organization’s first World Series in 44 years, Woodruff emphasized that his focus remains entirely on the team’s championship goal rather than personal milestones.

Brandon Woodruff Throws Live Pitches During Rehab

When did Brandon Woodruff last pitch in a major league game before his recent rehab?

Woodruff last appeared in a game on July 4, before shoulder capsule issues sidelined him for the majority of the season.

How many pitches did Woodruff throw in his live batting practice session?

He threw 23 live pitches to the Brewers’ starting hitters at American Family Field, topping out at 90-92 mph.

What specific roster concerns prompted the Brewers to contact Major League Baseball?

According to reporting from The Athletic, the front office sought clarification on whether a chronic shoulder injury could be replaced under MLB rules if a player suffers a postseason setback.

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