Yelich expected back in starting lineup Tuesday
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Reigning National League MVP Christian Yelich is expected to return to the Brewers' starting lineup Tuesday against the Twins after Milwaukee's off-day on Monday.
The outfielder has been out of the lineup in each of the past five games due to a back injury, but he pinch-hit Sunday. Logging his first plate appearance since last Monday, Yelich struck out swinging in a six-pitch at-bat against Rangers left-hander Mike Minor with the tying run on second base in the bottom of the eighth inning.
“I mean, it’s looking like it,” Yelich said about his potential return after Sunday's game. “You would have to ask [manager Craig Counsell]. But I feel good. It was nice to feel that.”
This isn't the first time this season Yelich has been sidelined by a back issue. He was previously out of the lineup for six straight games from April 29 to May 4. However, he has managed to avoid the injured list to this point.
In his most recent start, Yelich went 4-for-5 with a pair of homers. He's hitting .335 with an MLB-leading 39 home runs and a 1.130 OPS on the year.