Doctors have cleared Brandon Woodruff to begin mound work, fueling a long-shot bid to bolster the Milwaukee Brewers’ rotation just in time for a potential deep postseason run.
Brandon Woodruff continues to make encouraging progress in his attempt to return to the Milwaukee Brewers’ pitching staff during the 2026 season.
Woodruff, who recently resumed throwing, was scheduled to have his injured right shoulder examined Friday. The evaluation would determine whether he could advance to throwing from a mound.
A positive development
David Gasper from Brewers Daily reported Sunday that doctors cleared Woodruff to begin mound work, representing another important step in his recovery.
Manager Pat Murphy stressed that Woodruff remains an extreme long shot to return during the postseason. The right-hander still needs additional time and has not thrown a bullpen session.
Murphy has not completely abandoned hope, but he recognizes how difficult it would be for Woodruff to return during a potential World Series appearance after spending two months unable to throw. Nevertheless, the Brewers see no reason for him to stop pursuing that possibility.
“It sounds like Brandon Woodruff got approval from doctors for throwing off the mound, per Pat Murphy,” Gasper wrote.
“Murphy stressed it remains an extreme outside chance he can return for the postseason, but Woodruff’s throwing progression is continuing.”
Receiving medical clearance to throw from a mound is a major development for Woodruff, but he is not close to pitching in a game. Milwaukee would likely need to make a deep postseason run for him to have enough time to complete his progression.
Woodruff’s continued rehabilitation reflects his commitment to the Brewers. He was initially ruled out for the remainder of the season, and surgery appeared necessary.
Further evaluation determined that he would not need an operation, allowing him to begin working toward a possible return.
The chances of Woodruff pitching again in 2026 remain slim, but he continues pushing forward. A World Series run could create an opportunity for the homegrown Brewers star to rejoin the team on MLB’s biggest stage.
For the moment, his progress is the most important development. Milwaukee would welcome his return this season, but the positive updates carry significance even if he does not pitch during the postseason.
When Woodruff first landed on the Injured List, the potential surgery also placed his availability for the 2027 season in danger. Barring a setback, that concern no longer appears as serious.
Woodruff’s mindset for Brewers
Woodruff’s persistence illustrates the competitive drive that has defined his career. Continuing an exhausting rehabilitation process without any guarantee of returning this season requires discipline, patience and considerable mental strength.
He also possesses a deep connection to the organization. As a homegrown player, Woodruff understands what postseason success would mean to the Brewers, their clubhouse and Milwaukee.
His determination to contribute, even with the odds against him, demonstrates loyalty to his teammates.
The right-hander brings experience, leadership and credibility to the pitching staff. Younger pitchers can learn from how he prepares, responds to adversity and remains engaged while injured.
Woodruff is not allowing an uncertain timeline to reduce his effort. His willingness to pursue an unlikely return reveals his toughness and sense of responsibility.
Whether he pitches in 2026 or continues preparing for 2027, his recovery is moving in an increasingly positive direction.
