Milwaukee Brewers: Chase Anderson set to return Sunday

The Milwaukee Brewers didn’t make any moves after placing starter Brent Suter on the DL for good reason. Rehabbing starter Chase Anderson declared himself fit for duty and will make his return on Sunday in Colorado.

The Milwaukee Brewers were forced to juggle their rotation with guys like Michael Blazek, Paolo Espino, and Wily Peralta while Chase Anderson worked his way back from an oblique strain. Anderson’s return solidifies the rotation behind Jimmy Nelson and Zach Davies, but the team still has room for Brandon Woodruff with Brent Suter on the DL. What else does Anderson’s return mean for the Brewers?

Is Colorado an Ideal Place For Anderson To Return?

Not really, no. Even guys who aren’t coming off the DL struggle in Coors Field. It’s not the perfect place for Anderson to make his return. However, the Milwaukee Brewers are scheduled to play there and there really isn’t a better option.

Anderson has made four starts in Coors Field in his career, and the numbers aren’t great. He owns a 7.84 ERA in 20 2/3 innings of work with 16 strikeouts, seven walks, and five homers allowed.

The other concern is that he isn’t stretched out enough to work deep into the game. He also may not stick around long if he struggles early. Anderson only threw 67 pitches in his most recent rehab start. He may only stick around for 80 pitches or so before getting the hook.

What About After His Start In Coors?

Assuming Anderson makes it through his start in Colorado unscathed, he gets to face the Dodgers in Los Angeles for his next start. Anderson is surely thrilled to return to the Major League rotation, but the schedule makers didn’t do him any favors.

How Was Anderson Before His Injury?

He was awesome. In 16 starts, Anderson owns a 2.89 ERA with a 6-2 record. In 90 1/3 innings of work, Anderson has fanned 85 while only walking 27. He was in the middle of a breakout season before he strained his oblique on June 28th. If he hadn’t gotten hurt, he may have joined Corey Knebel in Miami at the All-Star Game. He really was that good.

Next: What Does Stephen Vogt's Return Mean To The Brewers?

Adding Chase Anderson to the rotation gives the Milwaukee Brewers another starter they can trust in almost any match up. His return takes even more pressure off the battered Brewers bullpen. He should work into the six or seventh inning almost every time out. Manager Craig Counsell won’t have to reach into the bullpen early for a few days with the combo of Anderson, Jimmy Nelson, and ‘Zach Davies away from Miller Park’. While Neil Walker is expected to boost the offense, Anderson could end up as an even bigger help for the Brewers down the stretch.