The Milwaukee Brewers‘ big league roster has already been hit hard this season with veteran Wade Miley and rookie Robert Gasser both undergoing season-ending Tommy John surgery. Now, another blow comes from within their farm system. One of the Brewers’ 2023 draft picks, 18-year-old pitching prospect Hayden Robinson, is set to undergo the same surgery after sustaining an injury to his ulnar collateral ligament (UCL).
Curt Hogg of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that Robinson, who was drafted in the 14th round of the 2023 MLB Draft, injured his UCL earlier this month. The Brewers pried him away from his commitment to Nicholls State University by signing him for $347,500, demonstrating their belief in his potential.
Robinson, who was one of several high school pitchers drafted by Milwaukee in the later rounds, had been showing promise in the Arizona Complex League. Over six appearances, including three starts, he pitched 18.2 innings, striking out 28 batters while walking seven, and posted an impressive 2.41 ERA.
The news of Robinson’s injury and impending surgery is a significant setback. The Brewers had high hopes for their young pitcher, who had started his professional career with strong performances. His injury adds to the list of Brewers pitchers facing long rehabs, which could impact the team’s depth and development plans.
Other high school pitchers drafted by Milwaukee in 2023 who signed include Bishop Letson, Bjorn Johnson, Josh Adamczewski, and Justin Chambers, who has since been traded. The Brewers’ focus on young pitching talent in the draft highlights their strategy of building a strong pipeline, but Robinson’s injury underscores the inherent risks involved in developing young arms.
Robinson’s journey to recovery will be closely monitored, and the Brewers organization will undoubtedly support him through the rehabilitation process. The hope is that he will return stronger and continue his path to potentially contributing to the Brewers’ future success.
Brewers prospect injury news: 2023 14th round pick Hayden Robinson, who was off to a stellar start in the complex league, suffered an injury to his UCL and will require surgery. Robinson had flashed some of the best stuff in the league before getting hurt earlier this month.
— Curt Hogg (@CyrtHogg) June 24, 2024
