Despite the adversity the Milwaukee Brewers pitching staff has faced with multiple injuries, manager Pat Murphy has tried to maintain a positive attitude. However, the ongoing injuries have started to take a toll on the team, with rookie left-hander Robert Gasser potentially becoming the third pitcher to miss the entire season due to elbow issues. Gasser sought second opinions that conflicted, leading to uncertainty about the best course of action for his injury.
Gasser was initially diagnosed with a strained flexor and was advised rehab by the team’s medical staff. However, a second opinion from Dr. Neal ElAttrache revealed that while Gasser’s UCL was intact, it was not as strong as it should be, suggesting another Tommy John surgery. With conflicting opinions, Gasser decided to seek a third opinion from Dr. Keith Meister to determine the best way forward. Murphy expressed pessimism about Gasser’s situation, highlighting the challenges faced by the rookie pitcher.
The Brewers’ pitching rotation has been hit hard by injuries, starting with Brandon Woodruff’s shoulder surgery that ruled him out for the season. Three-fifths of the season-opening rotation, including Jakob Junis, DL Hall, and Joe Ross, have also been sidelined with injuries. Veteran pitcher Wade Miley was also lost for the season due to Tommy John surgery, leaving the team with a significant lack of depth in their pitching staff. Murphy acknowledged the challenges of piecing together a rotation with nine pitchers on the injured list.
Despite the injuries, Robert Gasser had made a strong start to his major league career since being called up from Triple-A Nashville. With a 2-0 record and a 2.57 ERA in five starts, Gasser has provided stability to the team’s rotation. His impressive performance, including a historic streak of posting a sub-2.00 ERA while walking only one batter over his first four starts, has been a bright spot for the Brewers amidst their pitching struggles. However, with the ongoing uncertainty about his injury, Gasser’s future remains uncertain.
Murphy emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive attitude despite the challenges faced by the Brewers’ pitching staff. The manager’s faith in his players and the team’s ability to persevere through adversity was evident, even as they continue to search for solutions to their pitching woes. As they await the results of Gasser’s third opinion and navigate through a season filled with injuries, the Brewers will need to rely on their depth and resilience to overcome the obstacles that have been thrown their way.
