Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Rhys Hoskins aims to return to play approximately six weeks after sustaining a thumb injury, the player revealed to the team’s beat reporters. Hoskins suffered a Grade 2 sprain of the ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb along with a bone bruise, requiring an extended recovery period that has sidelined him since the injury occurred.
The injury happened three days ago during a lunging tag attempt on Miami Marlins infielder Eric Wagaman at first base. Hoskins immediately removed his glove and was examined by the Brewers’ training staff. Jake Bauers substituted for Hoskins at first base the following inning, while Andrew Vaughn was called up from Triple-A Nashville to fill Hoskins’ roster spot.
Recovery Process and Medical Perspective on Absence Length
Hoskins will wear a splint on his left thumb for the next two weeks before starting strength training and gradually resuming baseball activities. While some medical professionals have suggested a four-week recovery and others an eight-week absence, Hoskins is targeting a middle ground, which would mean a return around mid-August.
Hoskins’ Performance This Season and Impact on the Brewers
The 32-year-old slugger has posted improved stats in his second season with the Brewers compared to his debut campaign. Currently, Hoskins holds a batting line of .242/.340/.428 with 12 home runs and 12 doubles, reflecting a weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 115. His plate discipline has shown progress, as his walk rate increased from 10.3% last year to 11.9% this season, while his strikeout rate dropped from 28.8% to 26.7%. After strong performances in April and May, Hoskins slumped throughout much of June but appeared to regain form with a .237/.354/.526 slash line across 12 games leading up to the injury.
Brewers’ Current Options and Roster Considerations
In response to Hoskins’ absence, the Brewers have shifted focus to the newly configured lineup featuring the Bauers and Vaughn combination. Vaughn made an immediate impact by hitting a three-run home run in his first at-bat after joining the Brewers, while Bauers continues to maintain a solid on-base percentage of .328 against right-handed pitchers, supported by a 15.3% walk rate in those matchups. The right-handed hitting Vaughn and left-handed Bauers could form a short-term platoon to cover the first baseman spot if Hoskins’ return arrives closer to the earlier timeline.
Nonetheless, the Milwaukee bench lacks depth. It currently includes Andrew Vaughn, backup catcher Eric Haase, third baseman Andruw Monasterio, who carries a .241/.321/.327 career batting line, and rookie catcher/infielder Anthony Seigler, who has limited MLB experience. Prospect Tyler Black, who might have offered additional support, has underperformed in Triple-A since recovering from a broken hamate bone, batting .129/.260/.177 over 73 plate appearances.
Potential Moves Ahead and Strategic Implications
Given the Brewers’ thinned bench and the uncertain timeline for Hoskins’ return, there is a possibility Milwaukee may seek to add a versatile player who can cover first base and provide more offensive production off the bench. Such a move would bolster manager Pat Murphy’s options and help stabilize the lineup during this period. While the current Bauers-Vaughn tandem offers some short-term relief, acquiring an additional multi-position hitter would address offensive gaps and provide more lineup flexibility as the Brewers await Hoskins’ recovery.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Rhys Hoskins married?
A. Hoskins has enjoyed seeing his wife, Jayme, adapt to being a mom after they had their first daughter, Rory Jane.