The Milwaukee Brewers suffered a significant blow just before the start of the 2023 season, as the team announced that star outfielder Jackson Chourio has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a hairline fracture in his left hand. The injury is believed to have occurred when Chourio was hit by a pitch during an exhibition game ahead of the World Baseball Classic on March 4. Initial imaging at the time resulted in a diagnosis of a contusion, but a recent MRI revealed the fracture at the base of his third metacarpal. According to Todd Rosiak of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Chourio is expected to miss two to four weeks.
Jackson Chourio's Injury Impact on Brewers' Outfield Depth
Chourio, 22, is entering his third big league season and has been a key contributor to the Brewers' outfield. In his first 279 major league games, he has posted a.272/.317/.463 slash line (115 wRC+) while providing plus baserunning and quality outfield defense. Despite being better suited for corner outfield positions, Chourio played primarily center field last season.
With Chourio sidelined, the Brewers will have to rely on their remaining outfield depth to fill the void. The current outfield mix includes Blake Perkins, Garrett Mitchell, Sal Frelick, Christian Yelich, Jake Bauers, and Brandon Lockridge. Frelick, known for his exceptional defensive skills, is expected to be the everyday right fielder, while Mitchell should handle center field against right-handed pitching. Perkins, a switch-hitter who performs better from the right side, could form a platoon with Mitchell in center field. Bauers and Lockridge create a viable platoon option in left field, with Yelich potentially mixing in some left field work as well.
Short-Term Solutions and Long-Term Implications for the Brewers
While the Brewers have a tenable short-term solution for Chourio's absence, his injury puts a strain on the team's outfield depth. All of the outfielders on the Brewers' 40-man roster are now in the majors, leaving little room for additional injuries. The team has begun giving corner infield prospect Tyler Black some reps in the outfield corners, and current top prospect Jett Williams has outfield experience should the need arise, though he is not yet on the 40-man roster.
The timing of Chourio's injury is particularly unfortunate for the Brewers, who are expected to compete in a tightly contested division. With five off-days in the next month, Chourio may only miss around 10% of the team's 162 games. However, even a short-term absence of one of their most talented players could have significant implications for the team's performance in the early part of the season.
Key Takeaways
- Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a hairline fracture in his left hand.
- Chourio is expected to miss two to four weeks, impacting the Brewers' outfield depth early in the season.
- The Brewers will rely on a mix of players, including Blake Perkins, Garrett Mitchell, and Sal Frelick, to fill the void left by Chourio's absence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is Jackson Chourio expected to be out?
- Jackson Chourio is expected to miss two to four weeks due to a hairline fracture in his left hand.
- Who will replace Chourio in the Brewers' outfield?
- The Brewers will rely on a mix of outfielders, including Blake Perkins, Garrett Mitchell, and Sal Frelick, to fill the void left by Chourio's absence.
- How does Chourio's injury impact the Brewers' season outlook?
- While Chourio's injury is a significant blow to the Brewers, the team has a tenable short-term solution for his absence. However, his absence could have implications for the team's performance in the tightly contested division early in the season.
