Brandon Woodruff Out of NLDS with Lat Strain, May Return

The Milwaukee Brewers will head into the 2025 National League Division Series without their ace, Brandon Woodruff. He’s sidelined by a right lat injury from September, and honestly, it stings for Milwaukee fans.

Woodruff’s comeback had already been a huge story this year. After nearly two years away from the mound following shoulder surgery, he looked sharp and brought hope back to the rotation.

Doctors say his surgically repaired shoulder is healthy, which is a relief. Still, missing him for the postseason is a serious blow.

Let’s dig into what happened, how it’s affecting the Brewers, and what might come next—both in these playoffs and down the road.

Brandon Woodruff’s comeback journey

After major shoulder surgery, a lot of people wondered if Woodruff could ever be the same. This season, he put those doubts to rest with a strong 7–2 record and a 3.20 ERA over 12 starts.

He brought stability to the Brewers’ rotation. Fans got to believe again that the team’s ace was truly back.

From surgery to success

Getting back wasn’t easy for Woodruff. Almost two years of rehab and constant uncertainty would test anyone’s patience.

He signed a two-year deal while still rehabbing, showing his commitment to Milwaukee. The Brewers clearly believed in him too, and that $20 million mutual option for 2026 says a lot about how much they value him—on the field and in the clubhouse.

The setback: lat injury in September

Just as the Brewers were gearing up for October, Woodruff’s right lat gave out. His 15-day injured list stint technically ended before the NLDS, but he still hasn’t started throwing again.

Manager Pat Murphy called a return in time for the National League Championship Series “unlikely.” That pretty much dashed any hopes for a quick comeback.

Health of the shoulder brings long-term optimism

At least his shoulder looks good, which matters a lot for his future. Lat strains aren’t great, but they usually heal with rest and the right treatment.

The Brewers seem confident this injury won’t haunt him the way his shoulder did.

Impact on the Brewers’ postseason push

Woodruff’s absence leaves a real hole in Milwaukee’s rotation. His playoff experience and knack for shutting down tough lineups would’ve been huge against the Cubs.

Now, the Brewers have to lean on the arms they’ve got and shift their pitching plans to fill the gap.

Leadership off the field

Even stuck on the sidelines, Woodruff’s still making a difference. General Manager Matt Arnold pointed to his fire, leadership, and the way he lifts the clubhouse.

When October baseball rolls around, having a respected veteran around can mean more than you’d think.

Woodruff’s gratitude and connection to Milwaukee

During rehab and his comeback, Woodruff’s talked openly about how much Milwaukee and the Brewers mean to him. Eleven seasons with the club have left him deeply rooted here.

He’s been grateful for the chance to return, and that loyalty shows in everything he does.

Looking ahead: postseason and beyond

The Brewers aren’t totally shutting the door on a Woodruff appearance later in the playoffs, just in case they make a deep run. He’s focused on recovery and supporting the team however he can.

Whether he’s giving pep talks, sharing advice in the bullpen, or just being there for younger guys, Woodruff’s presence still matters a lot in Milwaukee’s playoff push.

Key points to remember

• Brandon Woodruff will miss the 2025 NLDS because of a right lat injury.
• The injury happened in September, right after he finished an impressive comeback season.
• His shoulder, which doctors repaired earlier, is healthy. That gives the team some optimism for what’s next.
• GM Matt Arnold called out Woodruff’s leadership and competitiveness.
• If Milwaukee goes deep into the postseason, there’s a shot Woodruff could return.
• Woodruff’s contract has a $20 million mutual option for 2026.

Losing your ace during the playoffs is brutal. For the Brewers, though, Woodruff’s grit this year still gives fans something to hang onto.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Woodruff (lat strain) ruled out for NLDS, could return later in playoffs