From Monday, August 15th, 2011
Brewers 3, Dodgers 0
W: Wolf (10-8) L: Lilly (7-13) SV: Axford (35)
Four double plays and a triple play capped off a great night defensively for the Brewers. The defense would have been nothing it was not for the three home-runs that propelled Milwaukee to victory.
Randy Wolf had another stellar performance as he seems to be getting better as the season wears on. Wolf pitched eight innings of no-run baseball and gave up six hits. He had men on in four of the eight innings and he allowed a season-high five walks, but double plays quickly took care of all that. Randy also lowered his ERA to 3.30, best among the Brewers starting rotation.
It is no surprise Wolf is pitching so well in a pennant race. He is a solid veteran with a lot of experience to contribute to this young team. Randy is exactly what the Brewers need in the middle of their starting five and as long as he stays healthy, he will keep on pitching gems.
In the second inning with men on at first and second, James Loney hit a hard ball just past the outreached arm of Wolf. Josh Wilson made a great pick up and scooped it in one motion out of his glove to Yuniesky Betancourt, who was waiting for the ball at second. Betancourt than fired to Prince Fielder at first base for the second out. Fielder noticed Matt Kemp making a break for home and quickly threw a perfect ball to George Kottaras, who put an excellent tag on Kemp before he could touch the plate. The umpire rang him up for the sixth triple play in Milwaukee Brewer history.
Kemp attempted to make the argument he was safe, but replays showed he was definitely out. His right arm actually slid past home plate without ever touching it. If he had only extended his arm inward, history would be told differently.
The next inning another dynamic play occurred. After rookie Dioner Navarro hit a ground-rule double, Justin Sellers singled to center field. Jerry Hairston picked up the ball and hurled a rocket home as Navarro was rounding third. The ball met Kottaras perfectly as he tagged Dioner in stride for the first out.
In the fourth inning Hairston was at it again, but this time it was a different play. Wolf issued a walk to Andre Ethier and had to face Matt Kemp with one on. Kemp hit a blooper to shallow right center where Hairston came crashing in hard and dove to make the miraculous catch. Ethier was so sure that the ball was going to drop that he was already rounding second. Hairston got up and threw to first base for the amazing double play.
After all the outstanding defense it was time for the Brewers to take advantage and put some runs on the board, enter Ryan Braun. With an 0-2 count, Ted Lilly tried to put the ball up above the strike zone to get Ryan to chase. Fortunately, the ball did not get as high as intended and Braun crushed it deep to left center field. It ended the no-hit threat and gave Milwaukee a lead they would not relinquish.
Jonathan Lucroy hit a pinch-hit homer to left field and Corey Hart followed with a solo-shot of his own in the bottom of the eighth inning to give John Axford some insurance. It was Lucroy's ninth and Hart's 18th of the year respectively.
The Axe-Man came in to close the game. After getting one out, Kemp reached base on a single. Juan Rivera then lined out to Prince Fielder who stepped on the bag for the unassisted double play to end the game. Very fitting for a team that just had their best defensive effort of the season.
Showing posts with label Randy Wolf. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Randy Wolf. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Brew defeat Cards, win sixth straight
From Wednesday, August 10th, 2011
Brewers 5, Cardinals 1
W: Wolf (9-8) L: Westbrook (9-6)
Randy Wolf dominated the Cardinals and pitched eight innings to give the Brewers their fifth straight road victory.
Once again Milwaukee got on the board first and continued to win when doing so. Corey Hart led off the game with a walk as Nyjer Morgan and Ryan Braun followed with back-to-back singles. Prince Fielder hit a sacrifice fly to center field to score Hart. Casey McGehee walked and the Brewers seemed to be heading for a big inning when Yuniesky Betancourt unfortunately grounded into a double play to end the threat.
The Cardinals came right back with a run of their own when Albert Pujols scored Rafeal Furcal with a sacrifice fly of his very own. It was the only run Wolf surrendered the entire game. Randy only allowed five men to reach base in what was by far his best performance of the season. Although he only had one strikeout, there was great movement on the ball and he was constantly mixing his pitches to fool the St. Louis batters. Wolf's ERA is now lowered to 3.48 and he has been a solid number three for the Brewers impressive starting rotation this year.
Milwaukee took the lead again in the third when Braun scored from second off of Fielder's double. McGehee grounded out and Betancourt made up for his double play in the first when he singled home Prince.
The game did not conclude without some controversy. After Jerry Hairston's base hit, Josh Wilson hit a sacrifice bunt to move him over. Pitcher Marc Rzepczynski threw the ball off target and Pujols had to take his foot off the bag in order to catch the ball. Wilson seemed to get there at the same time Pujols attempted to step on first. The umpire called Wilson safe and Tony La Russa came flying out of the dugout to argue the call. La Russa was quickly ejected and the Brewers made him pay as Corey Hart added some insurance with a single that scored both Hairston and Wilson.
Although Wolf probably could have finished with a complete game, manager Ron Roenicke was not willing to take any chances as he sent in Francisco Rodriguez to pitch the ninth. K-Rod got the first two batters out, but ran into trouble when he allowed back-to-back singles. Rodriguez got Yadier Molina to ground out for the win.
The Brewers send Yovani Gallardo to the mound in the finale in an attempt to get their second straight road sweep.
Brewers 5, Cardinals 1
W: Wolf (9-8) L: Westbrook (9-6)
Randy Wolf dominated the Cardinals and pitched eight innings to give the Brewers their fifth straight road victory.
Once again Milwaukee got on the board first and continued to win when doing so. Corey Hart led off the game with a walk as Nyjer Morgan and Ryan Braun followed with back-to-back singles. Prince Fielder hit a sacrifice fly to center field to score Hart. Casey McGehee walked and the Brewers seemed to be heading for a big inning when Yuniesky Betancourt unfortunately grounded into a double play to end the threat.
The Cardinals came right back with a run of their own when Albert Pujols scored Rafeal Furcal with a sacrifice fly of his very own. It was the only run Wolf surrendered the entire game. Randy only allowed five men to reach base in what was by far his best performance of the season. Although he only had one strikeout, there was great movement on the ball and he was constantly mixing his pitches to fool the St. Louis batters. Wolf's ERA is now lowered to 3.48 and he has been a solid number three for the Brewers impressive starting rotation this year.
Milwaukee took the lead again in the third when Braun scored from second off of Fielder's double. McGehee grounded out and Betancourt made up for his double play in the first when he singled home Prince.
The game did not conclude without some controversy. After Jerry Hairston's base hit, Josh Wilson hit a sacrifice bunt to move him over. Pitcher Marc Rzepczynski threw the ball off target and Pujols had to take his foot off the bag in order to catch the ball. Wilson seemed to get there at the same time Pujols attempted to step on first. The umpire called Wilson safe and Tony La Russa came flying out of the dugout to argue the call. La Russa was quickly ejected and the Brewers made him pay as Corey Hart added some insurance with a single that scored both Hairston and Wilson.
Although Wolf probably could have finished with a complete game, manager Ron Roenicke was not willing to take any chances as he sent in Francisco Rodriguez to pitch the ninth. K-Rod got the first two batters out, but ran into trouble when he allowed back-to-back singles. Rodriguez got Yadier Molina to ground out for the win.
The Brewers send Yovani Gallardo to the mound in the finale in an attempt to get their second straight road sweep.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
McGehee's three homers power Crew in win
From Tuesday, August 3rd, 2011
Brewers 10, Cardinals 5
W: Wolf (8-8) L: Jackson (8-8)
Casey McGehee is back and in a big way. The previously slumping Brewer has regained his mojo from last season and it could not come at a better time.
Milwaukee took the series in front of a sellout crowd at Miller Park and only lost one game on the eleven game home stand, a nail bitter that went into extras the previous night. The Brewers are now 3 1/2 games up on the second place Cardinals and they do not plan on looking back.
Randy Wolf got out to a rocky start giving up four earned runs in the first two innings, but the Brewers offense backed him up with plenty of run support. Wolf ultimately gave up five earned runs on nine hits in six innings pitched, but the outcome was all that mattered, which was a win for him and the team.
St. Louis scored first on a David Freese single that sent home Matt Holliday, but the Brewers came pounding back to ensure the lead did not last. Corey Hart started off the home half of the first inning with a solo shot to left field. Hart has been on a tear during the home-stand and seems to be peaking at the right time. After Nyjer Morgan popped up, Ryan Braun doubled down the left field line. With two outs the other red hot Brewer, Casey McGehee, belted a two-run homer to right field that gave Milwaukee the lead.
The Brewers advantage did not last long as the Cardinals came right after Wolf in the second. With one out, Corey Patterson doubled to right field and Edwin Jackson followed with a single. With runners on second and third, Rafael Furcal hit a rare homer on a line drive to left field that scored three runs.
The Brewers answered in the third. Morgan led off with a single but Braun ended the momentum with a double play, uncommon by his standards. Prince Fielder hit a two-out single to get the fans back into it. Casey McGehee succeeded with another two-run home-run to left field that give Milwaukee the lead.
Wolf began to shut down the Cardinal batters and the Brewers were now in the driver seat. They would tack on two more runs in the fifth and sixth for a commanding 9-5 lead heading into the seventh inning, which is where a pleasant day turned into an extraordinary one.
Casey McGehee hit his third home-run and recorded his fifth RBI of the game, both career highs. This third one went to dead center meaning that Casey hit one to the right, one to the left, and one to center. As he rounded the bases, Miller Park went into a frenzy. When he returned to the dugout, his teammates mauled him with high-fives and hugs. The fans still remained loud as Casey gave a curtain call to a standing ovation.
"It was an out-of-body experience, one that I will never forget," McGehee told reporters after the game.
The bullpen came in for three shut-out innings to give the Brewers a victory. Milwaukee now turns their winning act on the road to Houston, where they will play a beat up Astros team.
Brewers 10, Cardinals 5
W: Wolf (8-8) L: Jackson (8-8)
Casey McGehee is back and in a big way. The previously slumping Brewer has regained his mojo from last season and it could not come at a better time.
Milwaukee took the series in front of a sellout crowd at Miller Park and only lost one game on the eleven game home stand, a nail bitter that went into extras the previous night. The Brewers are now 3 1/2 games up on the second place Cardinals and they do not plan on looking back.
Randy Wolf got out to a rocky start giving up four earned runs in the first two innings, but the Brewers offense backed him up with plenty of run support. Wolf ultimately gave up five earned runs on nine hits in six innings pitched, but the outcome was all that mattered, which was a win for him and the team.
St. Louis scored first on a David Freese single that sent home Matt Holliday, but the Brewers came pounding back to ensure the lead did not last. Corey Hart started off the home half of the first inning with a solo shot to left field. Hart has been on a tear during the home-stand and seems to be peaking at the right time. After Nyjer Morgan popped up, Ryan Braun doubled down the left field line. With two outs the other red hot Brewer, Casey McGehee, belted a two-run homer to right field that gave Milwaukee the lead.
The Brewers advantage did not last long as the Cardinals came right after Wolf in the second. With one out, Corey Patterson doubled to right field and Edwin Jackson followed with a single. With runners on second and third, Rafael Furcal hit a rare homer on a line drive to left field that scored three runs.
The Brewers answered in the third. Morgan led off with a single but Braun ended the momentum with a double play, uncommon by his standards. Prince Fielder hit a two-out single to get the fans back into it. Casey McGehee succeeded with another two-run home-run to left field that give Milwaukee the lead.
Wolf began to shut down the Cardinal batters and the Brewers were now in the driver seat. They would tack on two more runs in the fifth and sixth for a commanding 9-5 lead heading into the seventh inning, which is where a pleasant day turned into an extraordinary one.
Casey McGehee hit his third home-run and recorded his fifth RBI of the game, both career highs. This third one went to dead center meaning that Casey hit one to the right, one to the left, and one to center. As he rounded the bases, Miller Park went into a frenzy. When he returned to the dugout, his teammates mauled him with high-fives and hugs. The fans still remained loud as Casey gave a curtain call to a standing ovation.
"It was an out-of-body experience, one that I will never forget," McGehee told reporters after the game.
The bullpen came in for three shut-out innings to give the Brewers a victory. Milwaukee now turns their winning act on the road to Houston, where they will play a beat up Astros team.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Wolf shuts down Astros
From Friday, July 29, 2011
Brewers 4, Astros 0
W: Wolf (7-8) L: Lyles (0-6)
Randy Wolf was superior against the Houston Astros on Friday night as he recorded his first win since early June.
Wolf did not allow a run and gave up only four hits in seven innings. It was a pitching duel between Wolf and Houston's starter Jordan Lyles. The Astros had base runners in the first, second, and third but could not do anything with them, while the Brewers did not get a hit until the fifth.
Milwaukee finally got something going as soon as Hunter Pence was removed from the game due to a trade to the Phillies. Prince Fielder led off with a double to right field. Newly acquired second baseman Felipe Lopez followed with a single to give Casey McGehee runners at the corners. Lopez played with the Brewers in 2009 and has spent the majority of this season in the Tampa Bay Rays farm system. McGehee singled on a soft ground ball to third base which was enough to score Fielder. Two batters later, George Kottaras singled home Lopez.
The Astros had base runners again in the sixth but Wolf quickly shut down the threat and continued his dominance.
Takashi Saito and Kameron Loe finished the last two innings. Since the Brewers had a four-run lead, Francisco Rodriguez and John Axford were given some much needed rest. Saito and Loe each pitched a three-up, three-down inning to close out the game.
Felipe Lopez said in an interview after the game that he is excited to be back in Milwaukee because he loves the atmosphere at the ballpark and wants nothing more than to help the Brewers be a contender. He continued to say that when he walked into the clubhouse that everything felt right and this is where he was meant to be. Lopez has been off this season for his standards, but when he played in Milwaukee he was nothing short of outstanding. He went two for four and scored a run in the win.
Brewers 4, Astros 0
W: Wolf (7-8) L: Lyles (0-6)
Randy Wolf was superior against the Houston Astros on Friday night as he recorded his first win since early June.
Wolf did not allow a run and gave up only four hits in seven innings. It was a pitching duel between Wolf and Houston's starter Jordan Lyles. The Astros had base runners in the first, second, and third but could not do anything with them, while the Brewers did not get a hit until the fifth.
Milwaukee finally got something going as soon as Hunter Pence was removed from the game due to a trade to the Phillies. Prince Fielder led off with a double to right field. Newly acquired second baseman Felipe Lopez followed with a single to give Casey McGehee runners at the corners. Lopez played with the Brewers in 2009 and has spent the majority of this season in the Tampa Bay Rays farm system. McGehee singled on a soft ground ball to third base which was enough to score Fielder. Two batters later, George Kottaras singled home Lopez.
The Astros had base runners again in the sixth but Wolf quickly shut down the threat and continued his dominance.
Takashi Saito and Kameron Loe finished the last two innings. Since the Brewers had a four-run lead, Francisco Rodriguez and John Axford were given some much needed rest. Saito and Loe each pitched a three-up, three-down inning to close out the game.
Felipe Lopez said in an interview after the game that he is excited to be back in Milwaukee because he loves the atmosphere at the ballpark and wants nothing more than to help the Brewers be a contender. He continued to say that when he walked into the clubhouse that everything felt right and this is where he was meant to be. Lopez has been off this season for his standards, but when he played in Milwaukee he was nothing short of outstanding. He went two for four and scored a run in the win.
Monday, July 18, 2011
D-Backs pitching to much for Brewers
Diamondbacks 3, Brewers 0
W: Collmenter (5-5) L: Wolf (6-7) SV: Hernandez (9)
The lack of run support this season for Randy Wolf is getting ridiculous. Once again Wolf goes deep into a game, gives up a few runs, and has a loss to show for it.
Wolf surrendered three runs, two earned, on eight hits in 7.1 innings pitched. He was in trouble with base runners throughout the game but still managed to throw the correct stuff to get out of it. In the third inning with bases loaded and zero outs, Wolf got the double play he was hoping for which allowed one run to score. He miraculously got out of the inning with only the one run to give his team a legitimate chance.
Unfortunately, the Brewers could not get their offense going as they only managed to garner three hits the entire night.
Milwaukee made great defensive plays, but also allowed two errors. Nyjer Morgan made an outstanding catch as he crashed into the wall in left field, but Wolf allowed a double the very next batter and then gave up a two-run homer that broke the game wide open. The next inning Morgan made an incredible diving catch in center field, making general manager Doug Melvin look smarter and smarter every game for acquiring him at the end of spring training.
The best play of the game at the time took place in the fourth inning. With runners at the corners and two outs in a one run game, Wolf caught Arizona's Ryan Roberts in a run down at first base. Prince Fielder began to chase Roberts towards second when he quickly realized that Chris Young began to run home. Fielder immediately threw home to catcher George Kottaras who scooped the ball out of the dirt on one hop and made an excellent tag on Young to end the inning.
This was a huge play because it stopped the Diamondbacks from scoring another run and gave the Brewers momentum. Obviously in the bigger scheme this ended up having no effect on the game, but it is good to know that Milwaukee can make these plays for when it really counts.
Arizona's rookie starting pitcher Josh Collmenter tossed a superior game as he only gave up three hits in eight innings. The Brewers had no answer for him and Collmenter was not shy about pointing it out as he threw every pitch with confidence. By time the ninth inning rolled around, Milwaukee seemed like they just wanted the game to be over.
Ryan Braun did not play again as Mark Kotsay started for him. The Brewers are still against putting Braun on the 15-day disabled list even though he has already missed 10 days. Manager Ron Roenicke figures Ryan will be ready soon so there is no need for the DL at this point.
W: Collmenter (5-5) L: Wolf (6-7) SV: Hernandez (9)
The lack of run support this season for Randy Wolf is getting ridiculous. Once again Wolf goes deep into a game, gives up a few runs, and has a loss to show for it.
Wolf surrendered three runs, two earned, on eight hits in 7.1 innings pitched. He was in trouble with base runners throughout the game but still managed to throw the correct stuff to get out of it. In the third inning with bases loaded and zero outs, Wolf got the double play he was hoping for which allowed one run to score. He miraculously got out of the inning with only the one run to give his team a legitimate chance.
Unfortunately, the Brewers could not get their offense going as they only managed to garner three hits the entire night.
Milwaukee made great defensive plays, but also allowed two errors. Nyjer Morgan made an outstanding catch as he crashed into the wall in left field, but Wolf allowed a double the very next batter and then gave up a two-run homer that broke the game wide open. The next inning Morgan made an incredible diving catch in center field, making general manager Doug Melvin look smarter and smarter every game for acquiring him at the end of spring training.
The best play of the game at the time took place in the fourth inning. With runners at the corners and two outs in a one run game, Wolf caught Arizona's Ryan Roberts in a run down at first base. Prince Fielder began to chase Roberts towards second when he quickly realized that Chris Young began to run home. Fielder immediately threw home to catcher George Kottaras who scooped the ball out of the dirt on one hop and made an excellent tag on Young to end the inning.
This was a huge play because it stopped the Diamondbacks from scoring another run and gave the Brewers momentum. Obviously in the bigger scheme this ended up having no effect on the game, but it is good to know that Milwaukee can make these plays for when it really counts.
Arizona's rookie starting pitcher Josh Collmenter tossed a superior game as he only gave up three hits in eight innings. The Brewers had no answer for him and Collmenter was not shy about pointing it out as he threw every pitch with confidence. By time the ninth inning rolled around, Milwaukee seemed like they just wanted the game to be over.
Ryan Braun did not play again as Mark Kotsay started for him. The Brewers are still against putting Braun on the 15-day disabled list even though he has already missed 10 days. Manager Ron Roenicke figures Ryan will be ready soon so there is no need for the DL at this point.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Milwaukee walks off, Crew tied for first
Brewers 4, Reds 3
W: Loe (3-7) L: Cordero (3-3)
What a way to head into the All-Star break. A thriller once again, Milwaukee is beginning to prove they can win the close game without a big home run.
The Brewers walked off for the second time in three games against a divisional rival who is struggling to stay in the hunt for first. Every facet of the game Sunday was outstanding and the fans could not have asked for a more exciting win.
Randy Wolf pitched a great game as he only allowed three runs, two earned, on seven hits in seven innings. He has been a breath of fresh air for the Brewer's starting rotation and without him to hold everything in place, who knows where the team would be.
With the bases loaded early for the Red's, Wolf had to work extra hard to try and get out of it. He threw a pitch inside on Scott Rolen, who was hit as he swung the bat. Rolen trotted to first when both the home plate and first base umpires agreed that he did not swing. Television replays showed that he clearly went around and a furious Ron Roenicke questioned the call. Unfortunately, the decision was made and the Brewer's were down one run early.
Rickie Weeks led off the Brewer's half of the first with a double and Carlos Gomez followed it with a sacrifice bunt to move Weeks to third. Corey Hart then singled to score Weeks and the Brewers had the game tied after one.
The Red's came right back the next inning and took the lead on Joey Votto's single that scored Drew Stubbs. Milwaukee would get another run of their own as Gomez tripled to score Weeks from first base. The game was now tied after two.
Cincinnati would take the lead once again in the fourth inning on a Weeks throwing error, which allowed Ramon Hernandez to score.
The Brewer's were left with three outs to score one run and Red's closer Francisco Cordero came in an attempt to shut them down. Milwaukee fans seemed excited that Cincinnati would go this route considering the success the Brewers have had against Cordero the last couple days.
Yuniesky Betancourt led off the inning with a ground out. Pinch hitter Nyjer Morgan did what he has done all season, make big plays when it really counts. After he singled to reach first base, he stole second in a close play that really got the Miller Park crowd pumping. George Kottaras walked to give Milwaukee runners at first and second.
Pinch hitter Mark Kotsay walked up to the plate as Brewer fans rose to their feet and began to make some noise. It was obvious that Cordero was nervous after what had took place two nights ago. Kotsay stood up tall and ready to rock. He ripped a line drive up the middle that nearly took Cordero's head off. Morgan scored with ease and the Brewers tied the game with the red hot Rickie Weeks coming to the plate. Cordero's first pitch nailed Rickie in the shoulder as well as the head. A furious Weeks jumped up off the ground and looked as if he was about to storm the mound. He kept his cool and walked to first base as he continued to yell at Cordero.
With the bases loaded and one out, Ron Roenicke sent veteran Craig Counsell to the plate. Counsell took a couple balls and fought off some strikes. He then sent a fly ball to shallow left field that Kottaras was able to score on for the walk off. Milwaukee fans went crazy as the Brewer players stormed the field in celebration. If anybody needed this it was Counsell, who has struggled for most of the season.
The Brewers are now in a tie with St. Louis for first place. The Pittsburgh Pirates are one game behind them and Cincinnati are four. This is only the third time in Brewer's franchise history that they are in first place at the All-Star break. The other two times were in 1982 and 2007. Milwaukee will have their work cut out for them the rest of the way, but if they can play like they did today there should be no reason why they will not be in contention.
W: Loe (3-7) L: Cordero (3-3)
What a way to head into the All-Star break. A thriller once again, Milwaukee is beginning to prove they can win the close game without a big home run.
The Brewers walked off for the second time in three games against a divisional rival who is struggling to stay in the hunt for first. Every facet of the game Sunday was outstanding and the fans could not have asked for a more exciting win.
Randy Wolf pitched a great game as he only allowed three runs, two earned, on seven hits in seven innings. He has been a breath of fresh air for the Brewer's starting rotation and without him to hold everything in place, who knows where the team would be.
With the bases loaded early for the Red's, Wolf had to work extra hard to try and get out of it. He threw a pitch inside on Scott Rolen, who was hit as he swung the bat. Rolen trotted to first when both the home plate and first base umpires agreed that he did not swing. Television replays showed that he clearly went around and a furious Ron Roenicke questioned the call. Unfortunately, the decision was made and the Brewer's were down one run early.
Rickie Weeks led off the Brewer's half of the first with a double and Carlos Gomez followed it with a sacrifice bunt to move Weeks to third. Corey Hart then singled to score Weeks and the Brewers had the game tied after one.
The Red's came right back the next inning and took the lead on Joey Votto's single that scored Drew Stubbs. Milwaukee would get another run of their own as Gomez tripled to score Weeks from first base. The game was now tied after two.
Cincinnati would take the lead once again in the fourth inning on a Weeks throwing error, which allowed Ramon Hernandez to score.
The Brewer's were left with three outs to score one run and Red's closer Francisco Cordero came in an attempt to shut them down. Milwaukee fans seemed excited that Cincinnati would go this route considering the success the Brewers have had against Cordero the last couple days.
Yuniesky Betancourt led off the inning with a ground out. Pinch hitter Nyjer Morgan did what he has done all season, make big plays when it really counts. After he singled to reach first base, he stole second in a close play that really got the Miller Park crowd pumping. George Kottaras walked to give Milwaukee runners at first and second.
Pinch hitter Mark Kotsay walked up to the plate as Brewer fans rose to their feet and began to make some noise. It was obvious that Cordero was nervous after what had took place two nights ago. Kotsay stood up tall and ready to rock. He ripped a line drive up the middle that nearly took Cordero's head off. Morgan scored with ease and the Brewers tied the game with the red hot Rickie Weeks coming to the plate. Cordero's first pitch nailed Rickie in the shoulder as well as the head. A furious Weeks jumped up off the ground and looked as if he was about to storm the mound. He kept his cool and walked to first base as he continued to yell at Cordero.
With the bases loaded and one out, Ron Roenicke sent veteran Craig Counsell to the plate. Counsell took a couple balls and fought off some strikes. He then sent a fly ball to shallow left field that Kottaras was able to score on for the walk off. Milwaukee fans went crazy as the Brewer players stormed the field in celebration. If anybody needed this it was Counsell, who has struggled for most of the season.
The Brewers are now in a tie with St. Louis for first place. The Pittsburgh Pirates are one game behind them and Cincinnati are four. This is only the third time in Brewer's franchise history that they are in first place at the All-Star break. The other two times were in 1982 and 2007. Milwaukee will have their work cut out for them the rest of the way, but if they can play like they did today there should be no reason why they will not be in contention.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Two in a row tough for Brew to swallow
Diamondbacks 7, Brewers 3
W: Duke (2-3) L: Wolf (6-6) SV: Hernandez
The night was filled with "firsts" at Miller Park.
It was Arizona's starting pitcher Zach Duke's first victory at Miller Park, but more troubling it was Milwaukee's first back-to-back loss at home this season. Most teams would be thrilled to have their first consecutive losses on their home turf come this late in the season. Unfortunately for the Brewers, it is the circumstances that surround the defeats that are troubling.
Randy Wolf can not blame this debacle on a lack of run support. The Brewers were already down four runs before they even stepped to the plate. Wolf allowed a season high seven earned runs on ten hits in six innings pitched. The Diamondbacks were on him early and did not let up.
Over the past week the Brewers either pitched well or had a prolific offense. It was never together, but at least one was accomplished. Tonight both imploded and it was not a sight to be seen. I understand that Prince Fielder and Corey Hart both homered, but that is nothing unusual. Home runs have always seemed easy for the Brewers to come by. However, a couple of them are not a substitute for offense, at least not when Milwaukee pitches the way they have as of late.
The Brewers have now lost seven of their last eight games. It has gone from troubling to agonizing. A minor setback has now become a major slump.
I realize that all teams have slumps throughout the season and many fans may think this is nothing to be overly concerned about. Let me share some important knowledge with you. Prior to the Yankee's series one week ago, the Brewer's had a three game lead in first place. It was their first three or more game lead in first place since 2007. One week later Milwaukee is in third place, two games behind the first place Cardinals. What took the Brewers three months to accomplish, they lost in one week. Who knows, if the Brewers continue this for one more week they could be out of the pennant race. That is how flimsy baseball standings are, especially when teams reach the top.
Milwaukee can still salvage the predicament they are in. Yovani Gallardo must beat the Diamondbacks tomorrow in the series finale and the Brewers must bring it hard against the Reds for their four-game series this weekend.
W: Duke (2-3) L: Wolf (6-6) SV: Hernandez
The night was filled with "firsts" at Miller Park.
It was Arizona's starting pitcher Zach Duke's first victory at Miller Park, but more troubling it was Milwaukee's first back-to-back loss at home this season. Most teams would be thrilled to have their first consecutive losses on their home turf come this late in the season. Unfortunately for the Brewers, it is the circumstances that surround the defeats that are troubling.
Randy Wolf can not blame this debacle on a lack of run support. The Brewers were already down four runs before they even stepped to the plate. Wolf allowed a season high seven earned runs on ten hits in six innings pitched. The Diamondbacks were on him early and did not let up.
Over the past week the Brewers either pitched well or had a prolific offense. It was never together, but at least one was accomplished. Tonight both imploded and it was not a sight to be seen. I understand that Prince Fielder and Corey Hart both homered, but that is nothing unusual. Home runs have always seemed easy for the Brewers to come by. However, a couple of them are not a substitute for offense, at least not when Milwaukee pitches the way they have as of late.
The Brewers have now lost seven of their last eight games. It has gone from troubling to agonizing. A minor setback has now become a major slump.
I realize that all teams have slumps throughout the season and many fans may think this is nothing to be overly concerned about. Let me share some important knowledge with you. Prior to the Yankee's series one week ago, the Brewer's had a three game lead in first place. It was their first three or more game lead in first place since 2007. One week later Milwaukee is in third place, two games behind the first place Cardinals. What took the Brewers three months to accomplish, they lost in one week. Who knows, if the Brewers continue this for one more week they could be out of the pennant race. That is how flimsy baseball standings are, especially when teams reach the top.
Milwaukee can still salvage the predicament they are in. Yovani Gallardo must beat the Diamondbacks tomorrow in the series finale and the Brewers must bring it hard against the Reds for their four-game series this weekend.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Brewers swept by Yankees
Yankees 5, Brewers 0
W: Sabathia (11-4) L: Wolf (6-5)
The series in New York sums up the Brewers season on the road pretty well. Nothing seems to be going right and the losing continues.
With the 81st game of the season played today, it tells us two things. The season is half way done and the Brewers have some work to do. The good news is if the season did end today, the Brewers would have won the National League Central for the first time since 1982 and would be in the playoffs. I realize the Cardinals still have to play their game tonight but I am confident that Milwaukee would own the tiebreaker. However, if the Brewers do not shape up, first place will become a distant memory.
C.C. Sabathia pitched an outstanding game as he surrendered six hits over 7.2 innings. He threw all of his pitches efficiently, particularly his power slider which was excellent. His 13 strikeouts explains the Brewer's struggles at the plate.
Randy Wolf was not nearly as good, as he gave up four earned runs on seven hits in seven innings pitched. After Brett Gardner and Nick Swisher got on base, Wolf gave up a double to Robinson Cano, which gave the Yankees a two-run lead in the first inning. Any time you give Sabathia that kind of run support early on in a game, it is going to be a long day for the opposition. Mark Teixeira got his league leading 25th home run of the season on a solo shot to left field.
Ryan Braun continues his career-best hit streak, which is now at 20 games. His first-inning single made him the fifth player in franchise history to record a hitting streak of at least 20 games. Braun is now half way to Paul Molitor's franchise record of 39 games. Braun leads the majors in consecutive game hit streaks, ahead of Nick Markakis who is at 18 games and Prince Fielder who is at 11.
The Brewers look to continue their success against the Minnesota Twins as they visit Target Field this weekend.
W: Sabathia (11-4) L: Wolf (6-5)
The series in New York sums up the Brewers season on the road pretty well. Nothing seems to be going right and the losing continues.
With the 81st game of the season played today, it tells us two things. The season is half way done and the Brewers have some work to do. The good news is if the season did end today, the Brewers would have won the National League Central for the first time since 1982 and would be in the playoffs. I realize the Cardinals still have to play their game tonight but I am confident that Milwaukee would own the tiebreaker. However, if the Brewers do not shape up, first place will become a distant memory.
C.C. Sabathia pitched an outstanding game as he surrendered six hits over 7.2 innings. He threw all of his pitches efficiently, particularly his power slider which was excellent. His 13 strikeouts explains the Brewer's struggles at the plate.
Randy Wolf was not nearly as good, as he gave up four earned runs on seven hits in seven innings pitched. After Brett Gardner and Nick Swisher got on base, Wolf gave up a double to Robinson Cano, which gave the Yankees a two-run lead in the first inning. Any time you give Sabathia that kind of run support early on in a game, it is going to be a long day for the opposition. Mark Teixeira got his league leading 25th home run of the season on a solo shot to left field.
Ryan Braun continues his career-best hit streak, which is now at 20 games. His first-inning single made him the fifth player in franchise history to record a hitting streak of at least 20 games. Braun is now half way to Paul Molitor's franchise record of 39 games. Braun leads the majors in consecutive game hit streaks, ahead of Nick Markakis who is at 18 games and Prince Fielder who is at 11.
The Brewers look to continue their success against the Minnesota Twins as they visit Target Field this weekend.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Gallardo gets pounded in first, lasts only three
Red Sox 12, Brewers 3
W: Wakefield (4-2) L: Gallardo (8-4)
Who would have guessed in a weekend with former aces Shaun Marcum and Yovani Gallardo starting, Randy Wolf would pitch more innings than both of them combined.
Gallardo had an error and gave up six earned runs in the first inning, four of them before a single out was recorded. He gave up a season high eight earned runs in three innings.
Jacoby Ellsbury and Dustin Pedroia led off the first inning with back-to-back singles. After a wild pitch moved the runners to second and third, Adrian Gonzalez hit a ground ball to the left of first base. Prince Fielder made a good play on it and sent a perfect throw to Gallardo, who simply dropped the ball as he stepped on first. A routine double play (if the wild pitch and error did not occur) turned into runners on the corners with one run in. Kevin Youkilis made Gallardo pay for the mistake, crushing a three-run home run over the green monster in left field. Four runs, zero outs, and Gallardo's pitch count skyrocketing.
Still in the first, bases loaded, the Red Sox got back to the top of their order. Jacoby Ellsbury hit a two-out ground-rule double that plated two more runs. Finally Gallardo got out of the inning after throwing 45 pitches. His day lost and the Brewers on their way to another losing road series.
The Brewer's offense was no match for Tim Wakefield's famous knuckleball as they struggled mightily all day. Nyjer Morgan and Prince Fielder were the only players to really break through. After Casey McGehee hit a two-out double off the green monster in the second inning, Nyjer Morgan hit a home run to right field that barely cleared the wall. Prince Fielder hit a solo shot to right in the seventh inning.
A 2-5 record on the road trip is not what Milwaukee was looking for, especially when the next couple of weeks are only going to get more difficult. The Brewers look to bounce back against the Tampa Bay Rays Monday night at Miller Park.
W: Wakefield (4-2) L: Gallardo (8-4)
Who would have guessed in a weekend with former aces Shaun Marcum and Yovani Gallardo starting, Randy Wolf would pitch more innings than both of them combined.
Gallardo had an error and gave up six earned runs in the first inning, four of them before a single out was recorded. He gave up a season high eight earned runs in three innings.
Jacoby Ellsbury and Dustin Pedroia led off the first inning with back-to-back singles. After a wild pitch moved the runners to second and third, Adrian Gonzalez hit a ground ball to the left of first base. Prince Fielder made a good play on it and sent a perfect throw to Gallardo, who simply dropped the ball as he stepped on first. A routine double play (if the wild pitch and error did not occur) turned into runners on the corners with one run in. Kevin Youkilis made Gallardo pay for the mistake, crushing a three-run home run over the green monster in left field. Four runs, zero outs, and Gallardo's pitch count skyrocketing.
Still in the first, bases loaded, the Red Sox got back to the top of their order. Jacoby Ellsbury hit a two-out ground-rule double that plated two more runs. Finally Gallardo got out of the inning after throwing 45 pitches. His day lost and the Brewers on their way to another losing road series.
The Brewer's offense was no match for Tim Wakefield's famous knuckleball as they struggled mightily all day. Nyjer Morgan and Prince Fielder were the only players to really break through. After Casey McGehee hit a two-out double off the green monster in the second inning, Nyjer Morgan hit a home run to right field that barely cleared the wall. Prince Fielder hit a solo shot to right in the seventh inning.
A 2-5 record on the road trip is not what Milwaukee was looking for, especially when the next couple of weeks are only going to get more difficult. The Brewers look to bounce back against the Tampa Bay Rays Monday night at Miller Park.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Brewers even series against Red Sox
Brewers 4, Red Sox 2
W: Wolf (5-4) L: Lester (9-3) SV: Axford (19)
Randy Wolf was not completely dominate, but that is still better than most pitchers on a good day. He gave up two earned runs on nine hits, but how he pitched out of trouble against the Red Sox was outstanding.
One of the most underrated pitchers, mainly because his bad outings are horrendous, Wolf does not get nearly enough credit. His 3.15 ERA is second best on the team among starters and his 5-4 record can be justified by a huge lack of run support. In eleven games this season Wolf has given up two earned runs or less, while taking a no decision in four of those games. Don't get me wrong, I still believe he is the fourth best pitcher in the Brewers starting rotation, but he is pitching like an ace as of late.
Wolf was not the only star of the game. Rickie Weeks and Corey Hart led off the game with back-to-back home runs. Rickie Weeks caught a break when Red Sox first baseman Adrian Gonzalez dropped a foul ball along the first base line. Weeks then crushed the next pitch over the "green monster" in left field, becoming the first person since 1979 to lead off a game with a home run after his foul ball was dropped. The Brewers are the first team since the 2003 New York Yankees to have two lead off back-to-back home run games in a season.
Casey McGehee continues his hot streak with an RBI single after Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder both walked with two outs. George Kottaras homered for the second time in as many games since being called up from AAA Nashville.
John Axford recorded his 19th save of the season with ease. Yovani Gallardo takes the mound next to help the Brewers take the series.
W: Wolf (5-4) L: Lester (9-3) SV: Axford (19)
Randy Wolf was not completely dominate, but that is still better than most pitchers on a good day. He gave up two earned runs on nine hits, but how he pitched out of trouble against the Red Sox was outstanding.
One of the most underrated pitchers, mainly because his bad outings are horrendous, Wolf does not get nearly enough credit. His 3.15 ERA is second best on the team among starters and his 5-4 record can be justified by a huge lack of run support. In eleven games this season Wolf has given up two earned runs or less, while taking a no decision in four of those games. Don't get me wrong, I still believe he is the fourth best pitcher in the Brewers starting rotation, but he is pitching like an ace as of late.
Wolf was not the only star of the game. Rickie Weeks and Corey Hart led off the game with back-to-back home runs. Rickie Weeks caught a break when Red Sox first baseman Adrian Gonzalez dropped a foul ball along the first base line. Weeks then crushed the next pitch over the "green monster" in left field, becoming the first person since 1979 to lead off a game with a home run after his foul ball was dropped. The Brewers are the first team since the 2003 New York Yankees to have two lead off back-to-back home run games in a season.
Casey McGehee continues his hot streak with an RBI single after Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder both walked with two outs. George Kottaras homered for the second time in as many games since being called up from AAA Nashville.
John Axford recorded his 19th save of the season with ease. Yovani Gallardo takes the mound next to help the Brewers take the series.
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