Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Blake Perkins suffered a fracture by a hit-by-pitch off his right shin during batting practice. Brewers manager Pat Murphy said Perkins is expected to return in early May. He will likely be shut down for three to four weeks and miss the season’s start. Late last season, Perkins spent time on the 10-day injury list with a strained left calf. But this injury is more severe. Last season, Perkins sported a .240 batting average, along with 43 RBIs and 23 stolen bases. Compared to 2023, Perkins recorded significantly more stolen bases in 2024 but practically doubled his strikeouts. However, Perkins is a key outfielder for the Brewers, and he still demonstrated that he was a strong contributor last season. He’s an underrated center fielder rewarded for his strong performance defensively in 2024, as a Rawlings Gold Glove Award finalist.
Injury news: Brewers outfielder Blake Perkins fouled a pitch off his right shin in live BP and suffered a fracture. He’s down 3-4 weeks to heal. Looking like a May return if all goes well, Pat Murphy said.
— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) February 22, 2025
Brewers Outfielder Blake Perkins Sidelined With Fracture
Perkins Starting Brewers Camp on Injured List
Following the rehab that Perkins will undergo to mend his fracture, he will then proceed to an on-ramp program. An on-ramp is meant to assist players with developing arm power as well as velocity before they return to the mound. With Perkins landing on the injury list, the Brewers’ newly acquired outfielder Manuel Margot comes in handy. The Brewers signed free agent outfielder Margot to a minor-league deal with an invite to spring training on February 21st. Margot also plays center field and hits well against left-handed pitchers.
Perkins, who is 28 years old, is a solid defender in center field and a switch-hitter who primarily bats right-handed. Perkins sees the ball well in the outfield and effortlessly glides to it. He also has a solid throwing arm, and with his 23 stolen bases last season, he has raw speed. His athleticism makes him a solidified defender who is fun to watch. While his offense is still developing, according to Baseball Savant, Perkins ranked in the 87th percentile with arm strength. Overall, his fielding was top-notch last season, and he received much praise.
Main Photo Credits: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
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