Slugging Brewers first baseman Eric Thames faces an extended absence after an MRI scan on Wednesday revealed a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb.
The Brewers placed Thames on the 10-day disabled list Wednesday and recalled right-hander Brandon Woodruff from Triple-A Colorado Springs. While Thames is sidelined, hot-hitting Jesus Aguilar is the leading candidate to play regularly at first base, with Ryan Braun as the backup.
Similar injuries sustained by MLB stars Bryce Harper and Mike Trout in recent seasons suggest Thames will miss at least six to eight weeks.