MIAMI — Milwaukee Brewers right-hander Brandon Woodruff struck out eight and threw two-hit ball through six innings against Miami on Sunday to win his first start in the majors since the 2023 season.
The two-time All-Star was activated off the injured list before the game. He hadn't pitched in the big leagues since having shoulder surgery after the 2023 season. He is 47-26 with a 3.10 ERA in 116 career starts and 15 relief appearances.
Woodruff (1-0) struck out the side in the first inning and was lifted after six innings and throwing 53 of his 70 pitches for strikes without a walk. Both of the hits he allowed were by Marlins left fielder Heriberto Hernandez, who singled in the third and homered in the fifth.
Grant Anderson and Abner Uribe each pitched a scoreless inning before Trevor Megill worked the ninth for his 20th save in 23 opportunities in the 3-1 victory.
Woodruff's return was a long time coming.
He left his first rehab stint this season with tendinitis in his right ankle. He was pitching for Triple-A Nashville on June 3 when a 108 mph line drive struck him in the right elbow, leaving a bruise that delayed his return.
The 32-year-old right-hander was back on the mound last Sunday for Nashville. He allowed four runs, four hits and three walks in 3 2/3 innings against Jacksonville. He threw 53 of 82 pitches for strikes.
In other moves by the Brewers before the finale of the three-game series against Miami, right-hander Chad Patrick was optioned to Triple-A and outfielder Garrett Mitchell (shoulder) was moved to the 60-day IL.
