As the 2025 MLB season progresses into its fourth week, fantasy baseball managers are grappling with significant injuries to key starting pitchers, requiring them to scour the waiver wire for alternatives. Among the most notable injuries are those affecting Blake Snell, Yu Darvish, and Brandon Woodruff. Snell, now with the Los Angeles Dodgers after a strong season with the San Francisco Giants, is currently on the 15-day injured list due to shoulder inflammation. He has recently begun a throwing program, but his return is still weeks away. Yu Darvish of the San Diego Padres has been sidelined with elbow inflammation, though recent reports suggest he is progressing towards a bullpen assignment, potentially returning by early May. Finally, Brandon Woodruff of the Milwaukee Brewers is on track for a return after successfully completing multiple simulated games and rehab assignments, with expectations for him to rejoin the rotation soon.

Brandon Woodruff, the Milwaukee Brewers' pitcher, made a successful return to the mound with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, throwing 68 pitches over four innings. He expressed satisfaction with his performance after 19 months of recovery from shoulder surgery. Woodruff struggled initially, allowing three runs but improved his command as the game progressed, recording 44 strikes. Looking ahead, he aims to increase his pitch count and innings in subsequent rehab starts, with the ultimate goal of rejoining the Brewers in the majors.

Woodruff emphasized the importance of staying positive and focused during rehab, reflecting on how the experience has deepened his appreciation for the game. His determination to regain his form bodes well for fantasy managers keeping an eye on his return, as he possesses the potential to make a significant impact once fully healthy.

The Milwaukee Brewers have recalled Logan Henderson from Triple-A Nashville to support a pitching staff currently plagued by injuries. Prior to their recent 5-0 win over the Detroit Tigers, the Brewers were struggling with a 4.93 ERA, ranking 28th in the majors. Manager Pat Murphy emphasized the need for help, given the depleted roster, and acknowledged Henderson's potential based on his recent performance in the minors, where he posted a 3.21 ERA and struck out 24 in 14 innings.

Henderson's minor league success followed a pattern of adjusting to the strike zone after a rocky start to the season. The Brewers aim for him to replicate the impact of pitcher Quinn Priester, who has been impressive since joining the team. The bullpen has faltered with a 5.94 ERA, a stark contrast to their previous year's strength. However, recent outings hint at improvement, providing a glimmer of hope for the struggling pitching staff.

Brandon Woodruff is set to embark on a rehab assignment with the Nashville Sounds, as he strives to return to the Brewers' rotation following a lengthy absence due to shoulder surgery. The 32-year-old right-hander has not pitched in the majors since September 23, 2023, but prior to the injury, he had built a solid resume with a 3.10 ERA and two All-Star selections over seven seasons. The Brewers, currently battling injuries to multiple starting pitchers, are keen to have him back in the lineup soon.

Woodruff's rehab assignments can last up to 30 days, positioning him for a return to the mound within weeks. Milwaukee, with a current record of 8-6, is in first place in the NL Central and has managed a resurgence after a rough start to the season. The team is eager for Woodruff's return, particularly as they face the Arizona Diamondbacks and seek a fourth consecutive series victory.

As the 2025 MLB season progresses, the return of key pitchers Grayson Rodriguez, Brandon Woodruff, and George Kirby is a hot topic among fantasy baseball enthusiasts. Rodriguez, sidelined with elbow inflammation, is expected to undergo further rehabilitation, potentially returning by early May. His impressive stats from last season make him a valuable asset for the Baltimore Orioles.

Meanwhile, Brandon Woodruff is inching closer to returning after a lengthy shoulder recovery, with a mid-May return on the horizon. His past performance suggests he could significantly bolster the Milwaukee Brewers' lineup. On the other hand, George Kirby is also expected to return around the same time, following shoulder inflammation recovery. Each pitcher's return could have a ripple effect on their respective teams' rotations.