Milwaukee Brewers right-hander Quinn Priester will start the regular season on the injured list and could be out into May with thoracic outlet syndrome.
A compressed nerve near Priester's shoulder is causing discomfort in his right arm.
"In my head, I would love (to return) late April, May, but I certainly think I'm on the optimistic side as a player," Priester told reporters Friday. "I want to be back as quick as possible. Ultimately, I'll trust whatever the scheduling is, to make sure we do it right."
As of now, the belief is Priester will not have to undergo surgery.
In his first season with the Brewers, Priester earned his way into the starting rotation and went 13-3 with a 3.32 ERA in 29 appearances (24 starts). In three major league seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates (2023-24), Boston Red Sox (2024) and Brewers, he is 19-12 with a 4.45 ERA in 50 appearances (39 starts).
Priester, who was limited to two outings in Milwaukee's nine playoff games, has already returned to light throwing and has a bullpen session scheduled for next weekend.
Milwaukee manager Pat Murphy said there was "a chance" Priester can rehab his way through the injury without surgery. Priester first felt wrist discomfort in August and the discomfort did not subside during the offseason.
Brewers right-hander Brandon Woodruff continues recovery from shoulder surgery in 2023 and a lat strain that halted his return last season in September. Woodruff also is expected to go on the IL to start the season, leaving the team without two starters.
Milwaukee opens its season March 26 at home against the Chicago White Sox.
--Field Level Media
