The Milwaukee Brewers lost a starter Wednesday when they placed veteran left-hander Jose Quintana on the 15-day injury list due to a strained left calf, and they got back a key reliever in Nick Mears, who was activated off the IL after recovering from a back injury.
But perhaps the biggest news from the team Wednesday was that All-Star closer Trevor Megill experienced a setback while recovering from a right flexor strain. The Brewers hoped to get Megill back sometime this week, but the right-hander reported soreness after throwing live batting practice. His timetable now remains uncertain.
“His health is paramount … so we’re disappointed. Not in him, in the situation,” manager Pat Murphy said.
Megill, who emerged as the Brewers’ closer last season, has a 5-3 record with a 2.54 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and a career-high 30 saves this season. His NL All-Star nod was the first of his career.
Quintana, 36, will be out at least the remainder of the regular season, but he has visions of returning for the playoffs, if needed. He reportedly played catch Tuesday and ran Wednesday without issue. He has posted an 11-7 record with a 3.96 ERA and 1.29 WHIP in 24 starts for Milwaukee this season. He could prove helpful for the best-of-seven National League Championship Series should the Brewers make it that far.
Mears, 28, had a minimum stay on the IL, having last pitched on Sept. 1. He has a 5-3 record with a 3.42 ERA, 0.91 WHIP, 16 holds and one save.
