Jul 9, 2026 5:30 PM
A new injury discovered via MRI threatens to sideline the right-hander indefinitely, leaving the Milwaukee Brewers veteran facing a potential career-ending crossroads following his latest shoulder setback.
Milwaukee Brewers fans aren't going to like what they hear when it comes to the status of Brandon Woodruff.
Nothing has been confirmed just yet, but "Big Woo" is set to get a second opinion after a scary sighting in an MRI.
MLB.com's Adam McCalvy said Woodruff's MRI revealed "a new injury to the anterior capsule."
Further consultation is required before he and the Brewers move forward, but this is not a good sign whatsoever for the 33-year-old.
Woodruff's career could be over
It's important for Brewers fans to remember that Woodruff had his anterior capsule repaired in October 2023, an injury that kept him out until July 2025. At this stage in his career, there might not be a scenario where he fully recovers and is able to return to the majors.
Woodruff already acknowledged this could've been his last season with the Brewers, but now, it may be his last season in the MLB altogether. Again, it's a bit too early to speculate, but more will be learned after his meeting with Dr. Keith Meister "in the coming days," according to McCalvy.
Meister is no stranger to the Mississippi native as he took care of Woodruff's procedure three years ago. After having not one, but two setbacks here in 2026, one can only put the worst-case scenario into their brain, especially since this initial MRI revealed a new injury.
Woodruff must prioritize long-term health
Brewers manager Pat Murphy told McCalvy the results were "inconclusive right now," but the discovery of a new injury is what has fans patiently awaiting the second opinion. Whenever that may be, Woodruff needs to look in the mirror and ask himself what's more important.
Sure, this could be his chance to win a World Series with the Brewers, but it's simply not worth it if there's an increased chance of a long-term injury. This organization has been unbelievable kind to Woodruff, and vice-versa, so there will likely be some sort of coaching opening for the righty, should he so choose to go that route.
The Brewers could always make a trade for a new starter at the deadline, even if that's unlike what they've done in years past. At this point, a rental isn't looking so bad, especially if Woodruff is indeed being shut down for the remainder of the season.
No matter what happens, Woodruff has had a historic career in Milwaukee, and it's one that's worth celebrating.
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