Jonathan Lucroy hasn't played in a game since September 8th due to a concussion, but according to Tom Haudricourt, he should be back on the field soon. He's medically cleared to play, but his "paperwork hasn't cleared union yet to exit concussion protocol".
The Brewers are going to be cautious with Lucroy, and will do everything they can to prevent another concussion, which could mean that the bulk of his playing time will come at first base.
Jonathan Lucroy working with coach Mike Guerrero on footwork at first base at Wrigley Field. pic.twitter.com/0rT4TdoDiv
— Tom (@Haudricourt) September 23, 2015
Playing at first base does not make him immune to concussions unfortunately, but it's clearly a safer option than having him catch everyday, where balls are routinely fouled back off catchers' masks.
While the Brewers received encouraging news about Lucroy, the respective prognoses for Wily Peralta and Ryan Braun were not as good.
Peralta has been shut down for the remainder of the 2015 season "with [a] recurrence of [his] oblique strain". He had a disappointing year, as he posted an ERA of 4.72, an FIP of 4.84, and made just 20 starts. Haudricourt also noted that the Brewers might have told Peralta to "show up in better shape" for 2016 as he was noticeably heavier this season.
Braun has been out since September 18th with a back injury, and while he wants to return before the season ends, time is against him.
No real progress with Ryan Braun's back. #Brewers running out of time but still wants to play.
— Tom (@Haudricourt) September 23, 2015
In 563 plate appearances this season, Braun posted a slash line of .287/.359/.503 with an ISO of .216 (his highest mark since 2012), a wOBA of .369, and a wRC+ of 131. While there's still time for him to return, the Brewers might ultimately decide the best course of action is for him to take the rest of the year off, and not risk further injury.