As pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training camps across Florida and Arizona this week, one of the most intriguing storylines is unfolding in Phoenix. Christian Yelich, the Milwaukee Brewers’ star left fielder and 2018 National League MVP, has arrived with a clean bill of health and sky-high expectations for the 2025 season.
Yelich, now 33, is determined to prove that his injury-shortened 2024 campaign was merely a speed bump on the road back to the rarefied air he breathed during his MVP season. Despite the premature end to his resurgent year, the dynamic outfielder still slashed an impressive .315/.406/.504 with 11 home runs and 21 stolen bases over 73 games.
Offseason Back Surgery a Turning Point
The biggest question mark surrounding Yelich entering 2025 was the state of his balky back, which required season-ending surgery in late July. However, all indications are that the procedure was a resounding success.
“Unless something crazy happens here, I don’t see why I wouldn’t be ready [for Opening Day],” Yelich confidently declared upon his arrival at camp.
This is music to the ears of Brewers fans, who are hoping that a pain-free Yelich can spearhead a return to the playoffs after the club narrowly missed out on the postseason in 2024. With their superstar anchoring the heart of the lineup and patrolling left field, Milwaukee has the look of a legitimate contender in the wide-open National League.
Brewers Banking on Internal Improvements
Of course, Yelich can’t carry the load alone. The Brewers’ front office opted for a quiet offseason, largely standing pat and hoping for organic growth from within after losing All-Star shortstop Willy Adames to free agency. This puts even more pressure on Yelich to be the rising tide that lifts all boats.
“We’ve faced challenges every year it seems on this team,” Yelich acknowledged. “It’s going to take somebody stepping up in here because they didn’t really go outside of the organization to fill those voids.”
Yelich’s Defensive Value Remains High
While much of the focus will understandably be on Yelich’s offensive output, his ability to man left field at a high level should not be overlooked. Even coming off back surgery, he remains committed to providing value with his glove.
“I still feel like I’m capable of playing the outfield and I’d like to do that as much as possible,” Yelich stated, though he acknowledged that occasional DH days could be mixed in to maintain his freshness.
Manager Pat Murphy echoed this sentiment, confirming that Yelich is still viewed as the team’s primary left fielder. This defensive stability, coupled with a return to peak offensive form, could make Yelich one of the league’s most valuable players once again.
The Road Ahead
As the Brewers embark on their Cactus League schedule and begin the march toward Opening Day, all eyes will be on Yelich. Can he recapture the magic of his 2018 MVP campaign? Will his back hold up to the rigors of a full season? The answers to these questions may very well determine Milwaukee’s fate in the hypercompetitive National League.
One thing is certain: a healthy and motivated Christian Yelich makes the Brewers exponentially more dangerous. If the spring in his step and the confidence in his voice are any indication, the baseball world could be in for a serious reminder of just how special this generational talent can be.
