Brewers announce pitcher who will take Brandon Woodruff's turn through the rotation 1 Feb 14, 2025; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Bruce Zimmermann works out during spring training camp. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Brewers announce pitcher who will take Brandon Woodruff’s turn through the rotation

Originally posted on WI Sports Heroics | By Tyler Koerth_ | Last updated Sep 22, 2025 8:38 PM ET

Over the weekend, the Milwaukee Brewers announced devastating news that Brandon Woodruff was being placed on the injured list with a lat strain. He first felt the discomfort during a bullpen over the weekend, the strain has been labeled moderate, and there is not much optimism that he will be ready for the playoffs.

With just a week remaining in the regular season and the NLDS set to begin on October 4, the long-term focus for Woodruff is clearly his postseason availability. In the short term, however, the Brewers had a more immediate challenge: finding someone to step into his spot in the rotation.

Milwaukee Brewers announce which pitcher will take Brandon Woodruff’s turn through the rotation

On Saturday, the Brewers designated Joel Payamps for assignment and selected the contract of Bruce Zimmermann. The 30 year hasn’t made a big league appearance since 2023, but in a twist of fate he is now slated to start Tuesday against the San Diego Padres, which originally was Woodruff’s day to pitch;

When Bruce Zimmermann was called up to the Brewers on Saturday, it was supposed to be for only one day. He was even told so in the interest of transparency. Then Brandon Woodruff got hurt, and now Zimmermann is lined up to start Tuesday night against the Padres. Life moves fast.

— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) September 22, 2025

As Adam McCalvy of MLB.com reported, Zimmermann was told straight up that he was coming up for one day with the Brewers. However, with Woodruff being diagnosed with a lat strain that same day, plans changed, and he now will start at least one game for Milwaukee.

Notably, with Zimmermann scheduled to pitch on Tuesday, he lines up to start the Brewers’ final regular season game against the Reds. Even if he doesn’t get the start, he’ll be available to pitch, giving Milwaukee the option to use him for bulk innings without risking another last-minute injury to one of their key arms heading into the playoffs.

Zimmermann brings some experience to the table, with 27 career big-league starts under his belt. As a starter, he had a 4.11 ERA in Triple-A this season. While his role may seem minor in the shadow of the Woodruff injury, his performance could still play a meaningful part in helping the Brewers secure the best record in baseball, which would guarantee them home field advantage throughout the playoffs. He also could have a hand in whether or not Cincinnati makes the post season or not.

This article first appeared on WI Sports Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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