Branyan returned to the Brewers in and went to spring training competing with Wes Helms for the starting spot at third base. He missed a month of the season, from June 2 to July 4, with a fractured middle finger on his left hand. Branyan went 5-for-17 in six rehab games with the Triple-A Nashville Sounds. After Branyan was activated from the disabled list, the Brewers optioned Prince Fielder to the minor leagues to make room for Branyan on the major league roster. Though he was off the disabled list, Branyan was still bothered by injuries throughout the rest of the season. By the end of the 2005 season, Branyan had played 59 games at third base, five at first base and three in left field. On the offensive side, Branyan batted .257 with 11 doubles, 12 home runs and 31 RBIs.