Christian Yelich Scratched from Lineup Due to Back Issues

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Milwaukee Brewers designated hitter Christian Yelich was scratched from Wednesday night’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies due to lower back soreness. This disclosure was made shortly before the game, raising concerns among fans and the team alike.

Yelich, who was originally set to bat in the cleanup spot, has had a solid season so far, boasting a .268 batting average along with a team-high 27 home runs and 92 RBIs. This season has seen him play in 132 of 139 games, making his absence especially notable.

This marks the first time Yelich has experienced back issues since undergoing season-ending surgery on his back last August. Throughout his career, he has battled similar problems. The 33-year-old missed 20 games early last season due to a low back strain and was placed on the injured list again in July 2024.

While it’s unclear how long this current issue will sideline him, Yelich is hopeful to return for Thursday’s series finale against Philadelphia. In his absence, Jackson Chourio, who was originally expected to take a day off due to a hamstring cramp, will step in as Milwaukee’s designated hitter and bat second.

The Brewers entered Wednesday with a record of 85-54, leading the National League Central Division by five games over the Chicago Cubs. Meanwhile, the Phillies held an 80-58 record, leading the East by six games over the New York Mets.