Milwaukee Brewers right-handed pitcher Brandon Woodruff is poised to be part of the team’s starting rotation for the 2026 Opening Day, according to recent updates from Spring Training. After overcoming a significant shoulder injury that kept him off the mound for nearly two years, Woodruff has made steady progress toward full health. His return to the Majors in 2025 was promising, though shortened by a lat strain late in the season.
With a healthy offseason behind him, Woodruff accepted Milwaukee’s one-year, $22 million qualifying offer during the winter, signaling his commitment to the Brewers for the upcoming season. Despite cautious preparation in Spring Training, Woodruff is now reportedly ready to begin his season with Milwaukee’s pitching staff.
Progress in Spring Training and Expectations for Opening Day Role
The Brewers are taking a measured approach to Woodruff’s return this spring due to his injury history, initiating his program slowly to ensure durability. Concerns had been raised about whether he would be prepared for Opening Day, but team sources in Arizona have confirmed he remains on schedule to start the season with the rotation. On March 1, Woodruff is set for a two-up live batting practice session followed by a planned progression of game action as part of his recovery.
Brandon Woodruff is scheduled for a two-up live BP session on March 1 and then begin game progression, the Brewers say.
“On track to begin the season in the rotation.”
— Todd Rosiak (@Todd_Rosiak) February 24, 2026
It is important to note that while Woodruff is expected to be in the starting rotation, he is not necessarily the Opening Day starter. That role has been filled in recent seasons by Corbin Burnes and Freddy Peralta, who have started the last four Opening Days for Milwaukee. Woodruff himself was the Brewers’ Opening Day pitcher in 2020 and 2021 before his injury setbacks.
Last season, after returning from his shoulder issues, Woodruff recorded a 7-2 win-loss record with an earned run average (ERA) of 3.20 across 12 starts, demonstrating his potential impact when healthy.
Additional Insights from Wisconsin Sports Circles
- Brewers’ Jacob Misiorowski shares candid thoughts on adopting “the Miz” nickname
- Jacob Misiorowski and manager Pat Murphy maintain a positive atmosphere despite recent Spring Training losses
- Brewers outfielder Sal Frelick comments on the team’s quiet approach during free agency
As Brandon Woodruff prepares to contribute to the Brewers in 2026, his return represents a significant boost for Milwaukee’s pitching depth. Keeping an experienced, effective arm like Woodruff healthy and active could play a key role in the Brewers’ push for success this season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Woodruff performs in Spring Training and how he fits into the rotation when the regular season begins.
Brandon Woodruff is scheduled for a two-up live BP session on March 1 and then begin game progression, the Brewers say.
"On track to begin the season in the rotation."
— Todd Rosiak (@Todd_Rosiak) February 24, 2026
