Baseball has an uncanny way of keeping its participants humble, a truth the Milwaukee Brewers have experienced firsthand this season. At the outset, skepticism surrounded the Brewers, with many speculating that the team would stumble following significant offseason departures. The exit of manager Craig Counsell, top executive David Stearns, and star pitcher Corbin Burnes signaled to many a presumed setback for the team from Milwaukee.
A Season of Surprises
Defying these expectations, the Brewers emerged as a formidable force by late August. Holding the largest division lead in Major League Baseball, they showcased resilience and strategic prowess. The front office’s decision to bolster the roster with key players like Rhys Hoskins and Gary Sánchez played a pivotal role in their ascent. Young talent also became a cornerstone of their success. William Contreras, Joey Ortiz, Blake Perkins, and Garrett Mitchell made impressive contributions at the plate, further solidifying the team's offensive front.
Emerging Young Talent
Brice Turang has particularly drawn attention as one of the league’s premier defensive second basemen. His adeptness on the bases is evidenced by successfully swiping 37 out of 42 attempts. With an emphasis on grounders and line drives, Turang retained remarkable contact rates, whiffing on just 13% of his swings. Not to be outdone, Jackson Chourio showcased a .900 OPS since June, an impressive feat bolstered by his ability to make consistent, quality contact. A lucrative $82 million contract before taking a major league at-bat underscores the franchise's faith in his potential, and he is expected to achieve a 20-20 season.
A Dominant Pitching Staff
Milwaukee’s pitching remains a cornerstone of their success, making them one of the best units in the National League. Bryan Hudson has been stellar, compiling a 1.65 ERA over 38 appearances. Tobias Myers followed suit with a 2.81 ERA out of 19 games, 18 of which were starts. Colin Rea posted an impressive 119 ERA+ and maintained a 3.00 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 23 appearances. Jared Koenig also proved reliable with a 2.09 ERA across 47 1/3 innings this season.
"The Brewers have excelled in getting the most from their pitchers in recent years -- some of our sources have talked up Cameron Castro as a key on that end," remarked an unnamed source, underscoring the behind-the-scenes efforts that have fortified Milwaukee’s bullpen.
Season Setbacks and Prospects
Despite Christian Yelich undergoing season-ending back surgery, the Brewers have maintained momentum, boasting a 72-52 record as of Tuesday. In head-to-head games against NL Central teams, Milwaukee's record stands at an impressive 25-14, outscoring their divisional rivals by 54 runs. Their performance against other opponents is also strong, holding a 47-38 mark.
With 13 more games to be played against divisional rivals before the season concludes, the Brewers are in a strong position to secure consecutive NL Central crowns for the first time in franchise history.
The journey through this season underscores the oft-quoted humility of baseball—a sport where doubt can be a significant motivator. The Milwaukee Brewers have transformed skepticism into standout performances, highlighting a team that not only rises to challenges but thrives amid them.