Christian Yelich took a big step towards being available on Opening Day for Brewers

Milwaukee Brewers veteran Christian Yelich gave fans plenty to be excited about this past weekend as he made his long-awaited spring training debut. Taking his first at-bats since undergoing back surgery last August, the former MVP stepped into the box three times on Saturday. The results? Two strikeouts before driving in a run with a groundout to shortstop.

On paper, it might not seem like much, but for Yelich, every swing was a step in the right direction. After battling nagging back issues for several seasons, his microdiscectomy procedure was meant to provide lasting relief. Now, stepping back onto the field for the first time in months, he’s focused on regaining his form, and his confidence. MLB.com’s Adam McCalvy caught up with the Brewers first baseman Rhys Hoskins who captured the moment well:

“He was saying today, ‘Oh, I’m kind of nervous.’ This guy’s been in the league for 10-plus years, a former MVP, and we’re here on March 1 and he’s kind of nervous, that’s cool for him.”

Those nerves speak volumes. Even after 13 seasons in the big leagues, Yelich still feels the weight of expectation. He’s never been one to coast, and after a few up-and-down years, he’s determined to show he's still got it.

What version of Christian Yelich will the Brewers see in 2025?

Yelich’s journey with the Brewers has been a rollercoaster. After spending his first five seasons in Miami, Milwaukee acquired him in 2018 in what would prove to be a franchise-altering move. He wasted no time making an impact, winning the NL MVP award in his first season with the team and nearly repeating the feat in 2019. Injuries, however, have since limited his ability to play at an elite level.

That’s why this return is significant. The three-time All-Star isn’t just looking to stay on the field, he’s looking to thrive again. By his own account, this weekend’s outing was a “win,” a foundation to build on over the next four weeks of camp. Given Yelich’s work ethic, that’s more than enough time for him to get back into a rhythm.

With Milwaukee’s outfield depth, expect Yelich to see more at-bats as a designated hitter this season. While managing his workload will be key, his bat remains a valuable asset in the Brewers’ offense. If this really is the healthiest he’s felt in years, then Milwaukee could be getting something they haven’t seen in a while, an unleashed Christian Yelich. That would be a big win.