MILWAUKEE -- The Milwaukee Brewers faced a significant setback as their star designated hitter, Christian Yelich, was a late scratch from Wednesday night's game against the Philadelphia Phillies due to lower back soreness. Yelich, who was originally slated to bat in the cleanup spot, has been a cornerstone of the Brewers' offense this season, boasting a .268 batting average, a team-high 27 home runs, and 92 RBIs.

Key Highlights:

• Yelich's Injury History: This isn't the first time Yelich has battled back issues. Last season, he missed 20 games early on due to a low back strain and later underwent season-ending surgery in mid-August 2024 after leading the National League with a .315 average.
• Team Standings: Both the Brewers (85-54) and the Phillies (80-58) entered Wednesday's game leading their respective divisions, with the two best records in the National League. The Brewers hold a five-game lead over the Cubs in the Central Division, while the Phillies are six games ahead of the Mets in the East.
• Series Context: The Phillies took the series opener with a 10-8 victory on Monday, and both teams had a day off on Tuesday. This series is crucial as both teams aim to solidify their playoff positions.

Impact on the Brewers:

Yelich's absence is a significant blow to the Brewers' lineup, especially in the midst of a tight division race. The team will need to rely on other key players to step up in his absence. Meanwhile, the Phillies will look to capitalize on this opportunity to extend their lead in the East.

Looking Ahead:

The Brewers and Phillies are set to continue their series, with both teams eager to gain an edge as the regular season winds down. Fans will be watching closely to see how the Brewers adjust without Yelich and whether the Phillies can maintain their momentum.