Brandon Woodruff makes his 2025 debut for the Brewers vs. Marlins on July 6. Can his return lift Milwaukee to a series win amid injury concerns for Rhys Hoskins?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The day Brewers fans have been waiting for is finally here. After a long and arduous recovery, ace Brandon Woodruff is set to take the mound for his 2025 season debut this afternoon against the Miami Marlins. His return couldn't be more timely, as Milwaukee looks to bounce back from a tough 4-2 loss on Saturday and secure a series victory.
With six prospects ranked in the top 100, the Brewers' farm system is a certified powerhouse, promising a bright future for years to come.
It feels like an eternity since we've seen No. 53 toe the rubber, but Brandon Woodruff is officially back. After missing the entire first half of the season, his presence immediately elevates a starting rotation that has already seen spectacular performances from rookie Jacob Misiorowski. Facing Marlins righty Edward Cabrera, Woodruff's pitch count will be heavily scrutinized, but just having his competitive fire back on the field is a massive boost for a team with championship aspirations. His return is the biggest story in Milwaukee today.
While Woodruff's return is cause for celebration, the team is holding its breath over the status of Rhys Hoskins. The first baseman exited Saturday's game with left thumb discomfort after making a tag, a concerning development for one of the lineup's key power bats. His absence was felt in the 4-2 loss, a game where the offense struggled despite a brilliant 3-for-4 performance from Jackson Chourio. The team is calling it 'day-to-day,' but fans will be anxiously awaiting the lineup card before first pitch.
The present is exciting, and the future might be even brighter. While Woodruff returns to the big league club, rookie sensation Jacob Misiorowski was just named the NL Rookie of the Month for June, a testament to his immediate and electric impact. This award is just another feather in the cap for the Brewers' player development pipeline. In the latest July updates from Baseball America and MLB Pipeline, the Crew's farm system was ranked among the best in baseball, boasting an incredible six prospects in the top 100. The organization is built for sustained success.
Today is more than just another game; it's a potential turning point. With Woodruff back on the mound, the Brewers have a chance to not only win the series against Miami but to send a message to the rest of the league. All eyes will be on the Sheriff's return and the pre-game report on Rhys Hoskins. Let's hope for a dominant debut and good news on the injury front. Go Brewers!