Former Brewer closer John Axford, otherwise known as the “Ax Man”, had a great run with the team in the early 2010s. From 2009 to 2012 he accumulated 106 saves. This is currently third most on the Brewers saves leader board. Axford went on to play for seven other teams after his initial tenure with Milwaukee before returning in 2021. Unfortunately, he injured his elbow during his one appearance with the Brew Crew that year.
Axford returned to the Brewers in August of 2021 after a handful of Brewers relievers had gone on the COVID IL. David Stearns made a trade with the Blue Jays in order to bring the Ax Man back to Milwaukee. He was welcomed back by fans with a standing ovation, but ended up injuring his elbow during his only appearance.
The injury to Axford’s elbow ended up requiring surgery. For the second time in his career, he underwent the Tommy John procedure. This time, he was doing it in his late 30’s. 16 months after this surgery, Axford announced that he is eyeing a return to baseball.
Here is a post from John Axford. It is a heartfelt thread regarding his goal of returning to baseball and to pitch for Team Canada in this spring’s World Baseball Classic.
Last week, I got off the mound for the first time since August 2, 2021. Here’s how it went…and a thread of where it goes from here:
— John Axford (@JohnAxford) December 19, 2022
Quite frankly, I’m not sure. But I do know that I can’t quit, and can’t have my career end on my elbow giving out on me. Not after working so hard to get back to a big league mound. So my hope, intent, want, dream…is to get back out on that mound in competition one more time.
— John Axford (@JohnAxford) December 19, 2022
With the WBC in March, I’ve set my sights on suiting up for my country and giving everything I’ve got to compete one more time. Since the day I was able to start training and throwing again, this has been my hope and goal!
— John Axford (@JohnAxford) December 19, 2022
Hopefully Axford is able to accomplish his goal of competing one more time. It would be a story book ending if he is able to pitch for his country after a long rehabilitation process.
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