Brewers Outfielder Sal Frelick Suffers Injury Ahead of MLB Playoffs
Milwaukee Brewers right fielder Sal Frelick experienced a frightening moment on Friday night in a game against the New York Mets. While chasing a foul ball hit by Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez, Frelick collided with the right field wall, injuring his left hip and falling to the ground in pain. The impact was so severe that Frelick had to be helped off the field and into the clubhouse for further evaluation.
Initially, X-rays conducted at the ballpark did not provide a clear diagnosis of Frelick’s injury. As a result, the team has scheduled an MRI for him on Saturday to get a more detailed understanding of the extent of the damage. Manager Pat Murphy expressed concern about Frelick’s condition, indicating that it is likely he will be sidelined for a period of time due to the injury sustained during the collision.
At just 24 years old, Frelick has been a key player for the Brewers this season, establishing himself as a regular starter in the outfield. With a batting average of .259, an on-base percentage of .320, and a slugging percentage of .335, Frelick has contributed significantly to the team’s offensive production. In addition to his offensive contributions, Frelick has showcased his defensive skills with 22 doubles, four triples, two home runs, and 18 stolen bases. His well-rounded performance has earned him a Wins Above Replacement (WAR) value of 2.0 this season.
The timing of Frelick’s injury is particularly concerning for the Brewers, as they are already without the services of their star outfielder Christian Yelich, who has been out of action since July. In Yelich’s absence, Frelick has stepped up to fill the void in the outfield, making his potential absence a significant loss for the team as they prepare for the upcoming playoffs.
If Frelick is unable to play in the postseason, the Brewers will have to rely on other outfielders to step up and fill the void. Jackson Chourio, Garrett Mitchell, and Blake Perkins are likely candidates to see increased playing time in Frelick’s absence, as the team looks to maintain their momentum heading into the playoffs.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Frelick’s availability, the Brewers have already secured the NL Central division title and will enter the playoffs as the No. 3 seed in the National League. Their first postseason matchup will be against the No. 6 seed in the Wild Card Series, with the Brewers set to host the opening game on Tuesday.
As the team awaits the results of Frelick’s MRI, they will be hoping for a positive prognosis that will allow him to return to action in time for the playoffs. The Brewers’ depth in the outfield will be tested in Frelick’s absence, but they remain confident in their ability to overcome adversity and compete at a high level in the postseason.
