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Posts for October, 2011
Sunday game time moved back
Major League Baseball has announced that Sunday's game time for the Arizona Diamondbacks-Milwaukee Brewers National League Divisional Series at Miller Park has been moved back to 4:07 p.m. Central.
The game has been moved back to create more separation for the Detroit Tigers-New York Yankees ALDS game. That game is scheduled to start at 2:07 p.m.
Also, MLB has announced the roof will be CLOSED for today's game. (9)
Game time is changed for Sunday's game
Major League Baseball has announced that Sunday's National League Division Series game on Sunday between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Arizona Diamondbacks has been changed to a 4:07 p.m. start.
The game had been scheduled for 3:37 p.m.
Also, the Miller Park roof will be closed for Saturday's game.
Hairston starting at third base
Brewers manager Ron Roenicke just told us that Jerry Hairston Jr., not Casey McGehee, will be starting at third base today in Game 1 of the NLDS against Arizona at Miller Park. McGehee, of course, was mired in a dreadful slump at the end of the season and Hairston started playing more toward the end.
Here is the Brewers' lineup:
RF Corey Hart
CF Nyjer Morgan
LF Ryan Braun
1B Prince Fielder
2B Rickie Weeks
3B Jerry Hairston Jr.
SS Yuniesky Betancourt
C Jonathan Lucroy
RHP Yovani Gallardo »Read Full Blog Post(19)
Hairston Jr. gets the nod at third
In the final analysis, Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke liked the way Jerry Hairston Jr. closed out the regular season at the plate.
With that in mind, he gave Hairston the start at third over Casey McGehee for today's National League Divisional Series Game 1 against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Miller Park.
"I just think that he's been swinging the bat better," Roenicke said. "He's also good defensively. And then matchups, looking at what he does against (Ian) Kennedy. We'll see tomorrow. I haven't made up my mind 100 percent. I know what I'd like to do." »Read Full Blog Post(5)
Parker included on Diamondbacks' roster
Arizona manager Kirk Gibson confirmed this morning that right-handed pitcher Jarrod Parker, the Diamondbacks' top-ranked prospect, did make the 25-man playoff roster.
Parker made his big-league debut Tuesday in Arizona's 7-6 comeback victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers and tossed 5 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing four hits.
Lefty Zach Duke was not included on Arizona's roster for the division series against the Brewers. »Read Full Blog Post(6)
Greinke ready to go
Brewers right-hander Zack Greinke, who will pitch Game 2 of the NLDS on Sunday on short rest, says he's good to go despite not having the normal time between starts.
"I'm plenty comfortable," he said. "I didn't throw that many pitches last time (74 vs. Pittsburgh) because we planned on it possibly happening."
Manager Ron Roenicke said Friday it was Greinke's call to go on short rest, and the pitcher explained why he wanted to do so. »Read Full Blog Post(2)
Game Blog: Brewers vs. Diamondbacks, Game 1
Brewers fans had to get up early Saturday to prepare for the 1:07 p.m. start to the National League Division Series. But no problem. They're streaming into Miller Park for Game 1 against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Yovani Gallardo, who started Game 1 of the NLDS against Philadelphia in 2008, is getting another chance three years later, and this time he's a 17-game winner. The Brewers won twice against Arizona with Gallardo starting this season. Ian Kennedy makes his postseason debut for the Diamondbacks. In his only appearance against Milwaukee this season, he pitched seven scoreless innings in a game Arizona won, 4-0, in Phoenix on July 21.
We're about ready to go. Brewers announcer Bob Uecker bows to the fans before throwing out the first pitch to manager Ron Roenicke. Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson and Roenicke are going over the ground rules at home plate and shake hands.
You can also follow the Brewers box on our live MLB scoreboard. »Read Full Blog Post(242)
Gallardo, Fielder shine in Game 1 victory
Brewers right-hander Yovani Gallardo was masterful and Prince Fielder pounded a two-run home run in the seventh to break open a close game as Milwaukee beat the Arizona Diamondbacks, 4-1, in Game 1 of the National League Division Series on Saturday at Miller Park.
Gallardo outdueled Arizona's 21-game winner, Ian Kennedy, who kept the Diamondbacks close until Fielder homered to right field after a two-out double by Ryan Braun in the seventh.
Gallardo allowed just one run in eight innings, giving up an eighth-inning homer to center by Ryan Roberts. The Brewers pitcher tied Don Sutton's franchise mark with nine strikeouts in a playoff game. »Read Full Blog Post(22)
Game 2 ceremonies set
The Brewers just announced their pre-game ceremonies for Game 2 of the NLDS on Sunday at Miller Park.
Hall of Famer Robin Yount will throw out the ceremonial first pitch and the national anthem will be performed by Whitney Clapper.
The parking lots will open at 10 a.m. and the gates will open at 2 p.m. »Read Full Blog Post(6)
Jitters aplenty for playoff newcomers
There is no practicing for this. First playoff games just have to be experienced.
So Nyjer Morgan must be forgiven for whipping through that first at bat. He may have had 1,623 career at bats, but this was his first ever in October. »Read Full Blog Post(5)
Gallardo at a new level
Slowly but surely, Yovani Gallardo has matured and progressed as one of the best home-grown pitchers the Brewers ever have produced.
Over that past few weeks, however, the 25-year-old right-hander has moved up to a new level of excellence.
"He's been great his whole career but if you look at the last month he's really taken a step forward," said leftfielder Ryan Braun. "He has been dominant. He has thrown the ball better probably over the last month than I've ever seen and I've seen him since we were in (Class) A ball together. »Read Full Blog Post(10)
Video: Haudricourt on Brewers' Game 1 victory
CineSport's Brian Clark asks Tom Haudricourt of the Journal Sentinel about Prince Fielder's homer and Yovani Gallardo's dominant day in the Brewers' Game 1 win.
Players deal with daytime shadows
It was a partly cloudy day for Game 1 of the NLDS on Saturday -- which made it interesting inside Miller Park, even with the roof closed.
Sunlight filtered in through the windows that face south and west and once caused Brewers center fielder Nyjer Morgan to lose one. He made the play but it took a little extra effort. »Read Full Blog Post(15)
Roof will be closed today
I just heard from Brewers vice president Tyler Barnes, who said the Miller Park roof will be closed today for Game 2 of the NLDS at Miller Park between the Brewers and Diamondbacks.
Game time has been adjusted to 4:07 p.m., for those who hadn't heard.
Even though it's supposed to be a sunny, relatively mild day for this time of year, Barnes said the roof will be closed because of falling temperatures when the sun sets. »Read Full Blog Post(19)
Hairston stays in lineup at third
Jerry Hairston Jr. made a huge contribution to the Brewers' Game 1 victory on Saturday, and his reward was a spot in the starting lineup again for Game 2.
Manager Ron Roenicke kept his lineup the same - with Hairston at third base instead of Casey McGehee - despite McGehee's 5-for-5 career mark against Arizona's Game 2 starter, Daniel Hudson. Hairston is 1 for 4 in his career against Hudson.
Hairston hit a sacrifice fly and had an infield hit in the Brewers' 4-1 victory on Saturday and he made four assists while making some tough plays in the field. »Read Full Blog Post(20)
Hairston starting again at 3B
Not even a perfect career average against Arizona Diamondbacks starter Daniel Hudson was enough to get Casey McGehee back into the lineup at third base today for the Milwaukee Brewers.
McGehee comes into Game 2 of the NLDS having gone 5 for 5 with a double and a home run in his career against Hudson, but it still wasn't enough to convince manager Ron Roenicke to go with him over Hairston.
Hairston had a solid Game 1, going 1 for 2 with walk and a bases-loaded sacrifice fly that drove in the Brewers' first run in the fourth inning. He also made several tough plays in the field, including a stab and throw to gun down Justin Upton at first in the sixth. »Read Full Blog Post(2)
Tony Plush, live at the Apollo
Ok, so it wasn't quite an entertainment show as the headline might suggest but as one might expect, our interview session this morning before Game 2 of the NLDS with Brewers centerfielder Nyjer Morgan was a load of fun.
Here are some highlights:
*On the Brewers' "Beast Mode" gestures after doing something good: »Read Full Blog Post(3)
How do you see this one playing out?
They just closed the Miller Park roof - no surprise, the Brewers announced earlier in the day that the lid would be shut.
And now there go the panels.
How's that play out in your head for Hudson v. Greinke in a place where No. 13 never loses? »Read Full Blog Post(10)
Kennedy takes a shot at Lucroy
Diamondbacks' Game 1 starter Ian Kennedy wasn't happy with his own performance in Arizona's 4-1 loss to the Brewers on Saturday at Miller Park.
And he also had a critical appraisal of Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy, who was 1 for 3 against Kennedy with a bloop RBI single in the sixth inning.
"It was a guy (Lucroy) who can't really hit and Gallardo can swing it a little bit," Kennedy told the Arizona Republic when asked if he thought about walking Lucroy to pitch to Gallardo with two outs in the sixth. "There was no thought for me at all at least." »Read Full Blog Post(19)
Head-to-head lineup comparison, '82 vs. '11, take your pick
Ryan Braun just hit a monster shot to center, his first post-season homer to give the Brewers a 2-0 lead in the first against Arizona.
Braun should finish in the top two or three in NL MVP voting. Against his contemporaries, Braun compares quite favorably. He is one of the best all-around players in the league.
But could you compare him against players from back in the day? Baseball is one of the few sports in which it can be done. Football and basketball, not so much. »Read Full Blog Post(27)
Game Blog: Brewers vs. Diamondbacks, Game 2
Zack Greinke, just three days removed from pitching in the regular-season finale against Pittsburgh, takes the mound for Game 2 of the National League Division Series today at Miller Park. Greinke was unbeaten (11-0) at home during the regular season, so Brewers manager Ron Roenicke wanted to use him where he has been so effective, if possible.
Greinke (16-6, 3.83 ERA) had a relatively low pitch count (74) in six innings against the Pirates on Wednesday. The Diamondbacks will rely on right-hander Daniel Hudson (16-12, 3.49) to try to even the series before the teams head to Phoenix later tonight. The roof is closed for Game 2.
You can also follow the Brewers box on our live MLB scoreboard. »Read Full Blog Post(201)
Balk, bunt prove huge as Brewers beat D'backs again
A balk and a bunt helped put the Milwaukee Brewers in a commanding position in the National League Division Series on Sunday.
The Brewers took advantage of a rare meltdown by Arizona Diamondbacks reliever Brad Ziegler to score five runs in a sixth-inning rally, leading to a 9-4 victory at Miller Park. Milwaukee took a 2-0 advantage in the best-of-five series, with Game 3 scheduled in Phoenix on Tuesday.
Arizona hit three home runs against Brewers starter Zack Greinke, including a two-run blast by Justin Upton that tied the score at 4-4 in the fifth. »Read Full Blog Post(21)
'Beast mode' goes national
The national TV audience and media is getting it's first prolonged and up-close look at the Brewers' "beast mode" gestures, made by players after getting a big hit. Leftfielder Ryan Braun even did one after throwing out a runner at the plate in Game 1.
Asked about that antic, which grew out of the love of Prince Fielder's children for the movie "Monsters, Inc.," centerfielder Nyjer Morgan said, "It's just a little thing. Prince started doing it. It's just a team camaraderie thing."
Braun did a "beast mode" for the crowd after his first-inning, two-run homer in Game 2, a bit unusual for him. The Brewers went on to win, 9-4, to take a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series. »Read Full Blog Post(17)
Confidence, aggressiveness on display
Both Ryan Braun and Corey Hart talked about the way the Brewers are playing in the 2011 postseason following their 9-4 victory over Arizona on Sunday night.
It seems a lot different than the way they performed as the wild-card team in 2008, when they lost in four games to the Philadelphia Phillies. Now the Brewers have a 2-0 lead on the Diamondbacks as they head to Phoenix for Game 3 on Tuesday night.
Braun was 3 for 4, including a home run, and drove in three runs on Sunday. And he is 6 for 8 (.750 average) in the series. Hart contributed two singles, two runs scored and an RBI in Game 2. »Read Full Blog Post(49)
Travel/workout day
Today is a travel day for the media and workout day for the Brewers and Diamondbacks as the scene shifts in the NLDS to Phoenix, where Game 3 will take place Tuesday night (8:37 p.m. CDT).
So, look for blogs by myself and Todd Rosiak later today as we report from the workouts at Chase Field. The teams, which traveled overnight after Game 2 at Miller Park on Sunday evening, are working out in the late afternoon, which will be even later in Milwaukee because of the two-hour time difference (Arizona is not on Daylight Savings Time).
So, around dinner time or so and throughout the evening, look for blogs as we report the latest development from the series, which the Brewers lead, 2-0, after winning Games 1 and 2 at home. (65)
History on Brewers' side
Phoenix -- As we get ready to go down to the Brewers' clubhouse to talk to players before their NLDS workout today at Chase Field, we bring you this bit of history.
Since MLB went to the current playoff format in 1995, all 19 teams that took a 2-0 lead in an NLDS series advanced to the NLCS round. The Brewers hold a 2-0 lead over Arizona after winning the first two games of the series in Milwaukee.
Game 3 is Tuesday night at 8:37 p.m. CDT. »Read Full Blog Post(18)
Introducing 'Tony Clutch'
Phoenix -- Just finished up in the Milwaukee Brewers' clubhouse here at Chase Field, and we were informed that Nyjer Morgan has yet another alter ego to add to the list.
I asked Ryan Braun what his favorite was of the four we already knew about -- Tony Plush, Tony Tombstone, Tony Gumble and Tony Hush.
Then Braun dropped a little knowledge on the scribes. »Read Full Blog Post(16)
Braun likes the spotlight
Phoenix – Ryan Braun was born to be a headliner, not a warm-up act.
With the Brewers in the national spotlight during major league baseball's postseason, folks around the country can see witness what denizens of Brewer Nation have known for years: Braun is something special.
"I've seen these stretches from him where you couldn't get any better," said manager Ron Roenicke, whose club will take a 2-0 advantage in the National League Division Series against Arizona into Game 3 on Tuesday night at Chase Field. »Read Full Blog Post(18)
Fielder expects rude reception
Phoenix - Brewers slugger Prince Fielder expects the same reception from Arizona fans in Game 3 of the NLDS that he received when the Brewers played here shortly after the all-star break.
Fielder was booed roundly because, as captain of the NL Home-Run Derby four-player contingent, he passed on Arizona's Justin Upton to pick teammate Rickie Weeks.
"I'm sure they'll still boo me," Fielder said a couple of days ago. "That's OK. I don't blame them. (Upton) is their guy. They should want him in the Derby. There's no hard feelings." »Read Full Blog Post(31)
Around the web: Brewers-Diamondbacks
Here's what is being said around the web prior to Game 3 of the National League Divisional Series: (41)
D-Backs rally around Gibby
Phoenix - Arizona's Kirk Gibson is expected to run away with the 2011 National League manager of the year title.
That hasn't stopped Gibson from getting toasted for his moves -- and non-moves -- in the first two games of the NLDS against the Brewers.
Gibson has been criticized for allowing Ian Kennedy to pitch to Prince Fielder with first base open in the seventh inning of Game 1 in MIlwaukee. Fielder socked a two-run homer to give the Brewers a 4-0 lead in a game they won, 4-1. »Read Full Blog Post(49)
Brewers comfortable at Chase Field
Phoenix - The postseason is obviously a different animal but the Brewers have felt comfortable at Arizona's Chase Field in recent years.
The Brewers have gone 10-3 in their last 13 regular-season games against the Diamondbacks at Chase Field, including 2-2 this season. That series was played just after the all-star break on a 10-game swing through Colorado, Arizona and San Francisco.
The Brewers need just one victory in the two games scheduled at Chase Field to win their first postseason victory since 1982 and advance to the NLCS. They are, by the way, the first Brewers team every to take a 2-0 lead in a postseason series. »Read Full Blog Post(77)
Lucroy plays with composure of a veteran
The playoffs are not the time for jitters or nerves.
That's why NCAA basketball teams like veteran point guards in March and experienced NFL quarterbacks in January.
How about first-time catchers in October?
This is 25-year-old Jonathan Lucroy's first full season and first playoff appearance, and yet he's still playing with the composure he's had all year.
No one gave him a pre-game pep talk before Game 1 against the Arizona Diamondbacks Saturday, not the veterans, not even starting pitcher Yovani Gallardo.
"No, not at all, I mean, I was nervous myself," said Gallardo, laughing.
Lucroy actually took the every day normalcy as a sign of confidence from his teammates. He followed their lead. He went to work as usual with Gallardo, who pitched a masterful game which led to a victory.
Lucroy also drove in the game's second run with a bloop single to left in the sixth. And he controlled a screamer from Ryan Braun in left field to knock Arizona's Willie Bloomquist out at the plate in the first inning.
"I couldn't ask for a better throw," said Lucroy, "I just tried to get in front of the plate and wear it if I had to."
Lucroy dealt with serious pregame nerves, the challenging sunlight and shadows of Miller and was glad to have survived it all with a win.
"He's carried himself well all year so maybe that's why you don't need pregame advice," said Brewers closer John Axford. "He's matured quite a bit this year, done a great job behind the plate. I think just knowing that he's been here all year, I think everyone is pretty comfortable with how he was going to be in the playoffs."
But then after the Game 1, Arizona's losing pitcher Ian Kennedy took a shot at Lucroy's hitting ability, telling the Arizona Republic he "can't really hit." Kennedy said he didn't even think of walking Lucroy to pitch to Gallardo instead with two outs in the sixth.
Obviously, Brewers manager Ron Roenicke doesn't see it that way.
"Luc had a nice offensive year this year," said Roenicke. "I think if you watch him and what he's done, Luc's a good offensive catcher."
Lucroy hit .265 with 12 homers and 59 RBI in 136 regular season games, including 114 starts.
And how sweet it was then when that Lucroy snuck in a base hit in his first at bat in Game 2, a shot that went through short.
He made a contribution again in the sixth. With Jerry Hairston Jr. on third, Lucroy put down a sacrifice bunt. Relief pitcher Brad Ziegler gathered it, but missed on the flea flicker, fielder's choice to home plate and Hairston scored to lift the Brewers, 5-4. The whole thing started a five-run rally for the Brewers to win Game 2.
"Just being in the hole I am, the position I am in the lineup, sometimes you're called on to do strange things," said Lucroy. "Especially with the pitcher hitting behind you. (The bunt) is a free RBI if you execute. And I really work hard to try to get that down and it's worked out for me."
If he felt vindicated, he wasn't going to go there - another wise move for someone who might have playoff aspirations beyond Arizona.
"It don't matter to me. I just like to win," said Lucroy. "Whether it's conventionally or unconventionally, I'll take a win any day."
Whether he's picking up a third strike in the dirt to throw to first for the out, or acting like the pitcher's personal backstop, Lucroy has played calm and collected.
"You need composure with every position but especially when you're involved every single pitch," said Axford.
Added Hairston: "Being a young catcher in this game is really tough. He's done a great job handling our pitching staff and our veteran pitchers have helped him along. He's really has grown up this season."
Hairston gets another start
Phoenix -- As manager Ron Roenicke said yesterday, Jerry Hairston Jr. is back in the lineup at third base today as the Milwaukee Brewers try for the NLDS sweep against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field.
Shaun Marcum (13-7, 3.54 ERA) takes his 8-3 road record to the mound tonight, while Josh Collmenter (10-10, 3.38) and his 14 scoreless innings against the Brewers this season goes for Arizona.
Brewers »Read Full Blog Post(51)
A ghost of a town before NLDS Game 3
Phoenix - As many times as I've been here for spring training, Packers games, Bucks games, bowl games, yada, yada, the absence of people in downtown Phoenix has never ceased to capture my attention.
During the week before the Super Bowl a few years ago, I would walk at night. And for blocks would see virtually no one.
Look, I know. The Valley is like a bigger, more spread-out Atlanta. Not many people are from here. Lots of strip malls. Not a lot of character. Most of the energy is out in Scottsdale and places like that. »Read Full Blog Post(7)
Wolf wouldn't mind missing Game 4
Phoenix - Brewers lefty Randy Wolf is in a weird position. As the scheduled starter for Game 4 of the NLDS vs. Arizona, he wouldn't mind not having to pitch.
That would mean that the Brewers win Game 3 tonight and sweep the seeries, making a fourth game unnecessary.
"It's probably one of the few times in my career where I don't want to pitch tomorrow," Wolf said during an interview session this afternoon at Chase Field. "If it happens, I'll be ready. »Read Full Blog Post(7)
If there IS a Game 5...
Phoenix -- I understand fans don't think it's much of a possibility.
But should the National League Divisional Series return to Miller Park for a Game 5, Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke has his starting pitcher lined up.
To no one's surprise, it'll be Yovani Gallardo. »Read Full Blog Post(3)
No apologies for having fun
Phoenix – Thanks to their "beast mode" gestures, the multiple personalities of Nyjer Morgan and other theatrics associated with the Brewers, they have received much national attention during the National League Division Series against Arizona.
Some of that attention has even centered on their play on the field.
The Brewers have made no apologies for being a loose, playful bunch, however. In fact, they insist it is part of what makes them a successful club. »Read Full Blog Post(3)
Does playoff experience matter?
Phoenix -- Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said he feels comfortable using Randy Wolf as his Game 4 starter if needed rather than trying to rush Game 1 starter Yovani Gallardo back on short rest.
"Watching him pitch over the year, he had some huge games for us when we really needed to win," Roenicke said of the left-hander, who went 13-10 with a 3.69 earned-run average in the regular season.
" 'Wolfie' has experience. When his command is on, he's got his rhythm going, he can really throw a great ballgame." »Read Full Blog Post(7)
MORE alter egos for Nyjer Morgan
Phoenix -- I asked Nyjer Morgan before batting practice what he thought of Ryan Braun's new "Tony Clutch" nickname for him.
"It's cool, man. I can roll with whatever," he said. "If someone like 'Braunie' wants to give me a nickname like that, I'll take it."
He then went on to inform me he has a few more new ones, including one for his Latino fans.
"Antonio Picante," he said with that usual laugh before heading onto the field. (13)
Game Blog: Diamondbacks 8, Brewers 1
Shaun Marcum will try to pitch the Brewers into the National League Championship Series, which would be a first for the franchise, when he faces the Diamondbacks tonight at Chase Field. Rookie Josh Collmenter, who pitched 14 scoreless innings against the Brewers during the regular season, will pitch for Arizona. The Brewers hold a 2-0 NLDS lead after winning Games 1 and 2 at Miller Park.
I will do the game blogging tonight while Tom Haudricourt, Todd Rosiak and Michael Hunt will provide full Brewers coverage (online and in print) from Phoenix.
You can also follow the Brewers box on our live MLB scoreboard. »Read Full Blog Post(404)
Collmenter controls Brewers yet again
Phoenix — Arizona Diamondbacks rookie Josh Collmenter honed his pitching style by throwing axes as a youth.
Ultimately, it was that crazy delivery that helped him chop down the Milwaukee Brewers for the third time in as many starts against them this season.
The big right-hander surrendered just two hits and one run over seven innings, walking two and striking out six to lead the Arizona Diamondbacks to an 8-1 blowout victory over the Brewers in Game 3 of the National League Divisional Series playoffs at Chase Field. »Read Full Blog Post(5)
Marcum's slide continues
Phoenix – One of the reasons the Brewers were willing to pitch Zack Greinke on short rest at home in Game 2 of the National League Division Series was that it pushed Shaun Marcum into a road start in Game 3.
The Brewers hoped Marcum would rediscover the magic that led to an 8-3 record and 2.21 earned run average away from Miller Park. But the venue didn't matter when his late-season slide lapsed into the postseason.
Marcum was pummeled for seven hits and seven runs in 4 2/3 innings Tuesday night as the Arizona Diamondbacks took apart the Brewers, 8-1, at Chase Field to stave off elimination. »Read Full Blog Post(39)
Counsell appreciative of reception
Phoenix -- It's not often a player receives a standing ovation on the road.
Especially in the playoffs.
Yet that's what happened Tuesday night to utility man Craig Counsell, who received about as warm a welcome as any opposing player will probably ever receive at Chase Field. »Read Full Blog Post(38)
Not do or die
Phoenix - Brewers manager Ron Roenicke was asked Tuesday night after an 8-1 loss in Game 3 of the NLDS against Arizona if Game 4 was a "do or die" game.
That was an odd question considering it is the Diamondbacks, not the Brewers, who face elimination if they lose Game 4 Wednesday night at Chase Field.
"No, it's not a do or die game," said Roenicke. "We need to come out and play a solid game but certainly not do or die." »Read Full Blog Post(120)
Gomez, Kottaras get starts
Phoenix -- Carlos Gomez gets his first post-season start in center field as the Milwaukee Brewers try to finish off the Arizona Diamondbacks in Game 4 of the National League Divisional Series at Chase Field tonight.
George Kottaras also starts at catcher, as Randy Wolf takes the mound. The Brewers can't catch a break with Kottaras, as left-hander Joe Saunders is starting for Arizona.
Brewers »Read Full Blog Post(53)
Marcum, Lucroy not at odds
Phoenix - Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said today that pitcher Shaun Marcum and catcher Jonathan Lucroy were not at odds Tuesday night in Game 3 during the at-bat that led to a grand slam by Arizona's Paul Goldschmidt in the fifth inning.
Lucroy and Marcum seemed to be at odds over pitch selection, leading to a conference at the mound and apparent uncertainty in general. But Roenicke said that was not the case.
"A lot of that was the base runner on second base and making sure he wasn't giving location or pitch (to the batter)," said Roenicke. "You noticed the last pitch that 'Luc' never gave a sign. I think that was because they were making sure that the guy at second base wasn't relaying location to the hitter." »Read Full Blog Post(19)
Why can't Wolf and Lucroy work together?
Phoenix -- With Randy Wolf starting Game 4 of the National League Divisional Series for the Milwaukee Brewers tonight at Chase Field, one thing is for certain.
George Kottaras will be catching.
For reasons unknown to everybody outside the Brewers' clubhouse, Wolf has been unable to get on the same page and work successfully with Jonathan Lucroy. »Read Full Blog Post(41)
Game Blog: Diamondbacks 10, Brewers 6
The Brewers will try again to close the National League Division Series on the road, sending left-hander Randy Wolf (13-10, 3.69 ERA) to the mound against Diamondbacks lefty Joe Saunders (12-13, 3.69). Wolf has made two career post-season starts (0-0, 5.00 ERA), both coming in 2009 with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was 0-2 with a 6.08 ERA in two starts against Arizona this season. But Wolf is 7-2 with a 3.43 ERA in his career at Chase Field.
Milwaukee will try to get its offense in gear after managing just three hits against D'backs starter Josh Collmenter and relievers David Hernandez and J.J. Putz in Game 3.
I will do the game blogging tonight while Tom Haudricourt, Todd Rosiak and Michael Hunt will provide full Brewers coverage (online and in print) from Phoenix. »Read Full Blog Post(1218)
Arizona beating Milwaukee at its own game
Phoenix — The Milwaukee Brewers came into the National League Divisional Series as the best power-hitting team in the National League.
But through the first four games of the teams' best-of-five set, the Arizona Diamondbacks have beaten them soundly at their own game.
With four more added to their tally in Wednesday night's 10-6 Game 4 win at Chase Field, the Diamondbacks have now teed off on Brewer pitching for a total of nine home runs as the series heads back to Miller Park for a decisive Game 5. »Read Full Blog Post(13)
Pitching takes a beating
Phoenix – The primary reason the Brewers claimed their first National League Central Division crown was one of the most-improved starting rotations in the majors.
The Arizona Diamondbacks were not impressed. At least, not in their ballpark.
Battering the Brewers' starting pitcher early and often for the second consecutive evening, the D'Backs roared to a 10-6 victory in Game 4 Wednesday at Chase Field to even the National League Division Series at two games apiece. »Read Full Blog Post(47)
Another waiting game?
The Brewers have become accustomed to waiting after clinching a playoff berth to see who they would be playing.
That will happen again if they win Game 5 of the NLDS vs. Arizona on Friday at Miller Park.
Should the Brewers recover from the two beatings they took in Arizona in Games 3 and 4 to win the NLDS, they will have to wait to see who wins the other NLDS Game 5 between St. Louis and Philadelphia. The Brewers play at 4:07 p.m. Friday and the Cards vs. Phillies game comes afterward. »Read Full Blog Post(161)
Roenicke likes way Game 5 sets up
Brewers manager Ron Roenicke doesn't sense any panic within his team as it enters Game 5 at Miller Park on Friday.
After all, the Brewers are back home and right-hander Yovani Gallardo is back on the mound for the decisive game against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
"I like both combinations," Roenicke said. "I feel good going into tomorrow. Yovani has been pitching great. And with that confidence of coming back home, I think the guys are feeling good." »Read Full Blog Post(51)
Fielder focused on task at hand
Should the Brewers lose Game 5 of the NLDS against Arizona on Friday and see their season come to an, in all likelihood it will be the last game for first baseman Prince Fielder in a Milwaukee uniform. Fielder is a free agent this fall and it is unlikely the Brewers will be able to keep him.
Despite that possibility, Fielder has shown no indication that his future is playing on his mind.
"I think he's done a great job," said right-hander Gallardo. "Obviously, as a player, it's tough hearing things like that, questions about you contract or whether you're going to come back or not. »Read Full Blog Post(13)
Gomez makes his case
Brewers backup centerfielder Carlos Gomez continued his stellar late-season play while getting his first start of the NLDS in Game 4 in Phoenix. Gomez went 2 for 3 with a two-run home run, sacrifice bunt and stolen base.
"'Gomey,' for four games in a row, has looked as good as you can possibly look," said manager Ron Roenicke. "He's driving the ball. He's going down and getting low breaking balls.
"I'm really confident with what he's doing right now. I we get past this game (Friday), we win that one, I feel really good about 'Gomey' going into the next series facing some left-handers." »Read Full Blog Post(24)
Video: Brewers-D'Backs prepare for Game 5
The Brewers' Yovani Gallardo and Ron Roenicke as well as the D-backs' Kirk Gibson discuss their thoughts and preparation for the deciding game of the series.
Roof will be closed for Game 5
It's a beautiful autumn day, but the Miller Park roof will be closed Friday for Game 5 between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Brewers spokesman Tyler Barnes said "MLB prefers conditions consistent with how the first four games were played."
He said the translucent panels in the outfield will be open. »Read Full Blog Post(132)
Only the shadows know
The roof will be closed at Miller Park today for Game 5 of the NLDS between the Brewers and Diamondbacks but that doesn't mean shadows won't be a problem for hitters.
As the players discovered last Sunday during Game 2 with a 4 p.m. start or thereabouts, shadows still play a role with the setting sun shining through the glass panels below the roof on the first-base side of the stadium. At different times, the plate is bathed in sunlight and shadow, making it difficult to pick up pitches.
It's difficult to hit Brewer ace Yovani Gallardo and Arizona ace Ian Kennedy when they're on their game, even without shadows. With that hindrance, it's likely to be even tougher. »Read Full Blog Post(7)
Usual Brewers lineup vs. righty
The Brewers are using the lineup they regularly employ against right-handed pitchers today for Game 5 of the NLDS at Miller Park vs. Arizona.
Here are the lineups:
RF Corey Hart
CF Nyjer Morgan
LF Ryan Braun
1B Prince Fielder
2B Rickie Weeks
3B Jerry Hairston Jr.
SS Yuniesky Betancourt
C Jonathan Lucroy
RHP Yovani Gallardo
SS Willie Bloomquist
2B Aaron Hill
RF Justin Upton
C Miguel Montero
1B Paul Goldschmidt
CF Chris Young
3B Ryan Roberts
LF Gerardo Parra
RHP Ian Kennedy (89)
Roenicke 'confident' in team today
Brewers manager Ron Roenicke knows his team looked bad in Games 3 and 4 in Phoenix but he just told us he is "confident" his team will play well today in the winner-take-all Game 5 of the NLDS vs. Arizona.
"I'm not too concerned about those two games," said Roenicke. "I think we're going to bounce back and play well. That's not to say we're not going to go out and lose this game but I really think we're going to play well."
Roenicke displayed his usual calm demeanor this morning and said it's important for his players to see that he's the same every day. »Read Full Blog Post
Glad to be back in a baseball environment
The problem with Chase Field is that the game-operations people treat a baseball game like a pro basketball game.
Music. Loud music. All . . . the . . . time. Game presenters. Loud game presenters. All . . . the . . . time. T-shirt cannons. You sorta expect spotlights and laser shows to break out at any time.
On top of that, there were 8,000 empty seats at Game 4. »Read Full Blog Post(14)
Roenicke takes some time out
Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke made a quick pit stop after leaving Miller Park on Wednesday night.
"Actually I stopped by the river right next to the parking lot, and I saw a guy fly fishing," he said. "So I walked over and asked him a couple questions and watched some big old salmon swimming around. I stayed there for awhile. It was pretty cool."
Apparently the fly fisherman had no idea the guy questioning him was Roenicke. »Read Full Blog Post
Young, Roberts flip spots again
Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson made a great move in Game 4 when he flipped his batting order, putting Ryan Roberts in the No. 6 hole and pushing Chris Young down to No. 7.
At least his players sure made it look good when Roberts belted a grand slam home run in the first inning off Brewers lefty Randy Wolf and Young followed with a solo home run to left.
For Game 5, Gibson has flipped the two players back to their original spots, with Young batting sixth and Roberts seventh. »Read Full Blog Post(5)
NLCS times set
Obviously, a lot has to play out here today at Miller Park before we know who will be playing in the National League Championship Series.
Even still, Major League Baseball has announced the start times and networks for it.
SUNDAY »Read Full Blog Post(9)
Game Blog: Brewers 3, Diamondbacks 2, 10 innings
OK, the big moment is finally here. Game 5 of the National League Division Series. The Brewers win and advance or lose and finish their season. They will rely on right-hander Yovani Gallardo to try to take the charge out of the Arizona Diamondbacks, who scored 18 runs in two home games to even the series at 2-2.
Gallardo struck out nine in Game 1 as the Brewers prevailed, 4-1, at Miller Park. He has been in a groove lately and has been especially sharp with his curveball, which could be a huge weapon for him again today. "Sometimes the slider is so good that he stays with the slider," Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said. "He's a guy that pitches with what he's going that day. When his fastball is really live and he's locating well, he pitches with the fastball. Yo has three outstanding pitches and it's nice for him to be able to vary that a little bit in a ball game."
Cy Young candidate Ian Kennedy, a 21-game winner in the regular season, is back on the mound for Arizona after taking the loss in Game 1. "We were here recently and I think we will be better prepared and more comfortable in the setting," Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson said. "It's just a great opportunity." »Read Full Blog Post(1069)
Morgan's clutch hit in 10th puts Brewers in NLCS
A pressure-packed Game 5. A great pitching duel between Yovani Gallardo and Ian Kennedy. A bases-loaded jam in the eighth inning and a piece of K-Rod magic.
An Arizona comeback in the ninth inning against Milwaukee closer John Axford to tie the score.
But the Brewers have the last word as Nyjer Morgan singles home the winning run in the 10th inning to defeat the Diamondbacks, 3-2, at Miller Park. »Read Full Blog Post(36)
Video of Nyjer Morgan's game-winning hit
Just in case you need to see it again, here's MLB.com's video of Nyjer Morgan's game-winning single.
Greinke to pitch NLCS Game 1
Brewers manager Ron Roenicke just confirmed to me that right-hander Zack Greinke will pitch Game 1 of the NLCS on Sunday.
Greinke was warming up and would have pitched the 11th inning tonight of the NLDS Game 5 vs. Arizona but that wasn't necessary when the Brewers won, 3-2, in the bottom of the 10th inning on Nyjer Morgan's one-out RBI single.
Despite warming up in the pen, Greinke still will be fine to pitch Game 1 of the NLCS vs. either St. Louis or Philadelphia, said Roenicke. »Read Full Blog Post(48)
Video: Nyjer Morgan, Brewers postgame comments
The Brewers and Diamondbacks talk about Milwaukee's series clinching 3-2 victory over Arizona in Game 5 of the NLDS.
Brewers will face Cardinals, have home-field edge
Chris Carpenter pitched a complete-game shutout to lift the St. Louis Cardinals to a 1-0 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 5 Friday night in Philadelphia.
The victory means the Brewers and Cardinals will meet in the National League Championship Series and resume a rivalry which grew heated at times this season.
The Brewers again will have home-field advantage, this time in a best-of-seven series. Game 1 will be played at Miller Park at 3:05 p.m. Sunday and Game 2 will be at 7:05 p.m. Monday. »Read Full Blog Post(213)
The legend of Tony Plush
As if it needed the boost, the legend of Nyjer Morgan in Milwaukee grew ten-fold.
Call him what you want. Tony Plush. "T" Plush. Tony Hush. Tony Tombstone. Tony Gumbel. If you don't pick one, he'll do it for you.
Morgan has more aliases than a gang of bank robbers. The Brewers need five extra roster spots just to keep all of his personalities eligible. »Read Full Blog Post(146)
Home field all the way
The combination of the Brewers and Cardinals winning their respective NLDS Game 5s on Friday guaranteed Milwaukee will have home-field advantage for as long as they keep playing in the postseson.
Because St. Louis knocked off top seed Philly, the Brewers get to play host in Games 1 and 2 of the NLCS to the wild-card Cardinals as well as Games 6 and 7 if it goes that far. Games 3, 4 and 5 will be in St. Louis.
And, should the Brewers make it to the World Series, the NL has home-field advantage because -- guess who -- Prince Fielder socked a three-run homer to help win the All-Star Game in Phoenix. Wouldn't it be something if Fielder delivered home field in the Fall Classic to his own club? »Read Full Blog Post(36)
Garcia to start Game 1 for Cards
Left-hander Jaime Garcia will start Game 1 for the Cardinals against the Brewers in Game 1 of the NLCS on Sunday at 3:05 p.m. at Miller Park.
After Garcia, the Cardinals will go with right-hander Edwin Jackson, right-hander Chris Carpenter and right-hander Kyle Lohse.
The Brewers will start right-hander Zack Greinke in Game 1 and we should find out from manager Ron Roenicke today who will start Game 2. I'm guessing Shaun Marcum, who started Game 3 in the NLDS. We'll see if Roenicke makes any changes.
Right-hander Yovani Gallardo, who started the clinching Game 5 of the NLDS against the Diamondbacks, won't be available until Game 3 of the NLCS in St. Louis. (35)
No announcement on Game 2 starter
Brewers manager Ron Roenicke did not announce his Game 2 starter for the NLCS against the Cardinals but he did say he didn't plan on changing the four starters he used during the NLDS vs. Arizona.
So, assuming he wouldn't want Shaun Marcum to go more than a week without pitching, I'm guessing Roenicke will stick with Marcum in Game 2. Yovani Gallaro can't pitch until Game 3 because he pitched the NLDS clincher on Friday vs. the D-Backs.
Marcum has been in a slide for a few weeks but Roenicke said "I still like him."
There are no compelling numbers to pitch either Wolf or Marcum first. Wolf was 3-2 with a 5.34 ERA in five starts against the Cardinalls this year and Marcum was 1-1 with a 4.15 ERA in four outings against them. (7)
Don't expect any roster changes
Based on what Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said on Saturday afternoon, he won't be making any roster changes -- as teams are allowed to do -- prior to the NLCS opener tomorrow at Miller Park.
Everyone is healthy, so really, the only spot that might have been in flux was the last spot on the bench.
Roenicke went with rookie Taylor Green over Josh Wilson, largely because of the lack of lefties in Arizona's bullpen. While St. Louis has a pair in Marc Rzepczynski and Arthur Rhodes, it looks like Roenicke is still going to stick with Green as his final bat. »Read Full Blog Post(11)
La Russa responds strongly to Greinke's comments
Let the fireworks begin.
Oh, excuse me. They already have started.
Brewers' Game 1 starter Zack Greinke made a few critical comments about St. Louis ace Chris Carpenter in an interview session at Miller Park, and Cardinals manager Tony La Russa responded to Greinke's comments. »Read Full Blog Post(254)
Attanasio, Thomas in pre-game ceremony
The Brewers just announced the details of their pre-game ceremony before Game 1 of the NLCS on Sunday against St. Louis at Miller Park.
Not surprisingly, Joe Attanasio, the father of team owner Mark Attanasio, will sing the National Anthem. He did so before Game 1 of the NLDS and also before Game 3 of the 2008 NLDS, the Brewers' first home game in that series. The Brewers won both games so they're sticking with what works.
The Brewers also announced that former centerfielder Gorman Thomas, a hero of the Milwaukee teams of the late '70s and early '80s, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. »Read Full Blog Post(13)
Brewers, Cards don't like each other
Let the hostilities resume.
That was the theme Saturday as the Brewers and Cardinals took time from preparing for the National League Championship Series at Miller Park to take some verbal shots at each other.
When it was suggested to St. Louis rightfielder Lance Berkman that there is a general perception that the Cardinals and Brewers don't like each other, he bluntly replied, "And that's correct." »Read Full Blog Post(150)
Braun on the shadows, the best hitter in the game, 2011 and Rodgers
At Miller Park Saturday before the Brewers worked out, outfielder Ryan Braun covered a variety of topics:
• This will be another odd 3 p.m. start and with the weather predicted to be sunny, that could mean more squinting in to the sun at every single pitch. Braun had to do that in Game 5 Friday until the sun finally set around after the third inning.
"I couldn't see anything at all. There's nothing you can do about it. We've experienced it enough to know what we're getting ourselves in to but there's nothing we can do about it," said Braun. "You hope for clouds and rain but aside from that it's challenging. »Read Full Blog Post(16)
A few NLCS predictions
Predictions are what you want to make of them, I guess. We ran them for the NLCS and other sites do as well.
Although I couldn't find too many, here's what is being said around the web. This might make you ecstatic or perhaps a little nervous: (61)
Gomez batting seventh
Brewers centerfielder Carlos Gomez is swinging such a hot bat that manager Ron Roenicke has moved him up a notch to seventh in the batting order for Game 1 of the NLCS vs. St. Louis today.
Here are the lineups:
RF Corey Hart
3B Jerry Hairston Jr.
LF Ryan Braun
1B Prince Fielder
2B Rickie Weeks
SS Yuniesky Betancourt
CF Carlos Gomez
C Jonathan Lucroy
RHP Zack Greinke
SS Rafael Furcal
CF John Jay
1B Albert Pujols
LF Matt Holliday
C Yadier Molina
3B David Freese
2B Ryan Theriot
LHP Jaime Garcia (27)
Marcum in Game 2; Wolf in Game 4
The Brewers have listed their starting pitchers for the entire NLCS against St. Louis. After RHP Zack Greinke starts in Game 1 today, RHP Shaun Marcum will go in Game 2, followed by RHP Yovani Gallardo and LHP Randy Wolf.
Roenicke said Saturday he still had to talk with pitching coach Rick Kranitz and the pitchers to decide his rotation but decided to keep it in the same order as in the NLDS vs. Arizona.
Marcum and Wolf both pitched poorly in the road games in Arizona but Roenicke said he expected them to bounce back. Marcum was much better on the road this season, with an NL-best 2.21 ERA, but instead will pitch at home in Game 2 and could pitch at home again in Game 6, so that's interesting.
I will post comments from Roenicke about these decisions later. (24)
Low-ish payrolls in MLB's last four
The good news here before noon at Miller Park is the roof is still open on a gorgeous Sunday for the NLCS.
Here's something else:
Of the last four teams in the playoffs, none have top-tier payrolls. »Read Full Blog Post(16)
Cardinals go with 12 pitchers on NLCS roster
Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said pitchers Lance Lynn and Kyle McClellan have been added to the team's National League Championship Series roster.
Left off the roster were second baseman Skip Schumaker (strained right oblique) and fifth starter Jake Westbrook.
"The toughest thing was (leaving off) Westbrook," La Russa said. "The most compelling reason is he's our protection during the series if a starter has an early problem or you go in extra innings. In that role, you're available every day and you can't stay in shape. »Read Full Blog Post(2)
NLCS facts and figures
I thought I'd throw out some NLCS fodder for you folks to digest until game time:
*The winner of Game 1 of the NLCS has advanced to the World Series in 16 of the last 19 years. The last team to beat that trend was St. Louis in 2006.
*The Brewers and Cards are meeting in the postseason for only the second time. The other time was the 1982 World Series, won by the Cards in seven games. »Read Full Blog Post(5)
Game Blog: Brewers vs. Cardinals, Game 1
The Miller Park roof is open and it's a glorious October day for baseball. Division rivals Milwaukee and St. Louis will renew hostilities with Game 1 of the National League Championship Series. Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said he expects shadows to play a bigger role in today's game because of the 3 p.m. start time. That means more tough sun in left field than in the 4 p.m. starts during the NLDS against Arizona.
Brewers right-hander Zack Greinke didn't win any friends among the Cardinals with his comments Saturday about St. Louis ace Chris Carpenter, but Greinke gave an honest opinion. Now he will face a St. Louis lineup with Albert Pujols, Lance Berkman and Matt Holliday as the Nos. 3-4-5 hitters. Greinke was 2-1 with a 3.15 ERA in three starts against the Cardinals this season, with both victories coming at home.
The Cardinals counter with lefty Jaime Garcia, making his second postseason start. Garcia went 1-0 with a 1.93 ERA in two starts against the Brewers this season, including a complete-game shutout on May 6 at Busch Stadium. In eight career games against Milwaukee, Garcia is 3-2 with a 3.27 ERA. »Read Full Blog Post(697)
Braun, Fielder fuel Brewers' Game 1 comeback
Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder struck mighty blows in a span of two pitches, leading the Milwaukee Brewers to a comeback 9-6 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 1 of the National League Championship Series.
Braun's two-run double to right field was followed immediately by Fielder's two-run home run to right off St. Louis starter Jaime Garcia in the fifth inning. The two key hits transformed a 5-2 deficit into a 6-5 Brewers lead, and Yuniesky Betancourt added a two-run homer as Milwaukee scored six runs in the inning. »Read Full Blog Post(35)
Hairston Jr. on the Brewers' win (after he checked football scores, of course)
Know what the first thing Jerry Hairston Jr. did when he got to the Brewers clubhouse Sunday night?
Pulled out the iPad and checked his Fantasy Football league scores. He had to – because Nyjer Morgan is apparently winning.
"He had the worst draft he could possibly have, he picked like nine tight ends," said Hairston. "And he's killing everybody in fantasy football. It's unbelievable." »Read Full Blog Post(13)
Axford says he's OK
Brewers closer John Axford was struck below the pitching elbow by a liner off the bat of John Jay on the final play of the Brewers' 9-6 victory in Game 1 of the NLCS against St. Louis.
It caromed off his hip and Axford picked up the ball to throw Jay out. After the game, he wore a compression sleeve on the arm in the clubhouse but said X-rays were negative and he escaped with a bruise.
"It's honestly fine," he said. "You have to check it out and make sure. We'll see when I play catch tomorrow but I think I'm going to be fine. It's a little bit of a bruise but it actually feels pretty good." (13)
Fielder to catch ceremonial Game 2 first pitch
Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Prince Fielder will serve as catcher for the ceremonial first pitch prior to Game 2 of the National League Championship Series at Miller Park on Monday.
Throwing the pitch will be Mike Kilar, father of Treyton Kilar, a devoted fan of both the Brewers and Fielder who was killed by a drunk driver one month shy of his seventh birthday last September.
Mike and Mary Kilar, the Kilar family and the community are rallying to build the Treyton Kilar Field of Dreams in his memory. Brewers Community Foundation is making a $10,000 donation to the Whitewater Community Foundation to help the project. »Read Full Blog Post(12)
News conferences provide a few laughs
Two of the Milwaukee Brewers' most media-shy players, Zack Greinke and Yuniesky Betancourt, each had their turn in front of the microphone following the team's 9-6 win over the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 1 of the NLCS at Miller Park on Sunday night.
Greinke has actually been pretty engaging in these settings during the playoffs, and he caused a stir on Saturday with his comments about Cardinals pitcher Chris Carpenter.
In the aftermath of Sunday's game, Greinke was asked if he'd heard anything from Cardinals players during the game. He started and pitched six innings in picking up his first playoff victory. »Read Full Blog Post(92)
First pitch will be a special moment
There will be a special moment before Game 2 of the NLCS between the Milwaukee Brewers and the St. Louis Cardinals tonight at Miller Park.
The ceremonial first pitch will be thrown by Mike Kilar, whose son Treyton was killed a little more than a year ago by a drunken driver one month shy of his seventh birthday. Treyton was a huge Brewers fan and his favorite player was Prince Fielder, who will catch the first pitch tonight.
The Kilar family and the community are rallying to build the Treyton Kilar Field of Dreams in his memory. Brewers Community Foundation is making a $10,000 donation to the Whitewater Community Foundation to help the project. Fans can lend their support to this project by visiting Treysfield.org. »Read Full Blog Post(62)
Axford good to go
I just talked to Brewers closer John Axford and he said he's good to go for Game 2 of the NLCS tonight against St. Louis after taking a liner off his pitching arm on the final play of Game 1.
"I already played catch and felt good," he said. "I threw curveballs, sliders, everything was good. I'm ready to go."
I asked if Axford had much bruising or swelling and he said none to speak of. »Read Full Blog Post(7)
Morgan back in CF; Holliday hits cleanup for Cards
The Brewers are back to the lineup they use against right-handed pitchers for Game 2 of the NLCS, with Nyjer Morgan back in CF. St. Louis is starting righty Edwin Jackson.
Here is the Brewers' lineup:
RF Corey Hart
CF Nyjer Morgan
LF Ryan Braun
1B Prince Fielder
2B Rickie Weeks
3B Jerry Hairston Jr.
SS Yuniesky Betancourt
C Jonathan Lucroy
RHP Shaun Marcum »Read Full Blog Post(102)
Hawkins nursing sore fingers on pitching hand
For those wondering why reliever LaTroy Hawkins has seen such limited action in the post-season -- one inning to date -- manager Ron Roenicke explained this afternoon in his daily news conference.
Hawkins has been nursing two bruised fingers on his right (pitching) hand, the result of a Miguel Montero comebacker in Game 2 of the NLDS.
"When he took that ball off his hand, it hit his pitching fingers," Roenicke said. "So we've been trying to stay away from him." »Read Full Blog Post(22)
Game Blog: NLCS Game 2 - Cardinals 12, Brewers 3
Yes, Casey McGehee hit three homers against Edwin Jackson in a game at Miller Park in early August. But how do you take Jerry Hairston Jr. out of the lineup with the job he's done in the postseason? Brewers manager Ron Roenicke's answer is you don't. Hairston will be at third after going 2 for 4 and scoring two runs in the Brewers' 9-6 victory over St. Louis in Game 1 of the NLCS on Sunday.
"It would have been real tempting to get him (McGehee) in there, but I just don't know how to do it with the way Hairston is playing, both defensively and offensively," Roenicke said. "It's hard to take him out."
The Brewers' Shaun Marcum will try to bounce back from a rough outing in Game 3 of the NLDS against Arizona, when he allowed seven runs and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings as the Diamonbacks won, 8-1. Marcum will be opposed by Cardinals right-hander Edwin Jackson, who will be making his fifth postseason start. Jackson was the winning pitcher in Game 4 of the NLDS against Philadelphia, allowing two runs and five hits in six innings. »Read Full Blog Post(754)
Pujols leads Cardinals' 12-3 romp in Game 2
Albert Pujols insisted after Sunday's game he was swinging well, even though his St. Louis Cardinals lost to the Milwaukee Brewers.
On Monday night the Cardinals slugger went out and proved it. »Read Full Blog Post(44)
Morgan keeps it low key
Nyjer Morgan said the team could not afford to get too down about the 12-3 loss to St. Louis at home Monday night. He believed the team will still be confident heading to St. Louis for three games there.
"We're a solid unit. There are going to be days where you get tossed up a little bit. As long as you can come back – and we've shown that all year, that we can battle back the next day – hey, you're going to have these games. You just can't get down.
"It was just one of those days. They got all of their hits right now." »Read Full Blog Post(16)
Roenicke sticking with Marcum
Despite another bad result with Shaun Marcum on the mound in Game 2 of the NLCS against St. Louis, Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said he has no plans to take him out of the rotation should his turn come up again in Game 6.
"As far as I'm concerned right now, he's pitching again," Roenicke said after the Brewers took a 12-3 pounding by the Cardinals that evened the series at a game apiece.
Though Marcum had been in a prolonged skid, Roenicke gave him a vote of confidence by naming him to start Game 2, and presumably Game 6, both at home, should the series go that far. But Marcum made it through only four innings, surrendering seven hits and five runs. »Read Full Blog Post(61)
Around the web: Brewers-Cardinals, Game 2
Here's what people around the web are saying about the Brewers, and more specifically, Game 2 of the NLCS: (67)
Starting rotation unraveling
St. Louis - What has happened to the starting rotation that was paramount in getting the Brewers to postseason play?
Other than Yovani Gallardo, the Brewers' rotation has been a mess in the postseason. Check the numbers:
Yovani Gallardo 2 games 1-0, 1.29 »Read Full Blog Post(226)
Brewers' Gary VandenBerg dies
Gary VandenBerg, the Milwaukee Brewers longtime chief groundskeeper, died Monday.
VandenBerg had been ill with cancer. The Brewers said they would release more details later Tuesday. (11)
Brewers to honor Vanden Berg
The Brewers will honor head groundskeeper Gary Vanden Berg, who passed away Monday night, by wearing patches on their uniforms with "GV" on them for the remainder of the playoffs.
"He was great to work with," said team CEO Rick Schlesinger. "He will be missed. He never had a great environment to grow grass in, with all of the challenges with the roof and shadows, but he always had a possible solution or idea. He'd say, 'Let's figure something out.'
"Even though he hadn't been out at the ballpark for a while, his grounds crew kept working on his behalf. That's a tribute to Gary. They do a great job." »Read Full Blog Post(9)
Morgan might sit in Game 3
St. Louis – Brewers manager Ron Roenicke strongly hinted Tuesday that Nyjer Morgan won't be starting in center field in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against St. Louis on Wednesday night at Busch Stadium.
Morgan put the Brewers in the NLCS with his game-winning hit in Game 5 of the National League Division Series against Arizona. But he is batting only .150 in the postseason (3 for 20) with a .261 on-base percentage and has played uneven defense, including a couple of balls he didn't catch in the Cardinals' two-run third inning in Game 2.
"It's something that we have talked about," said Roenicke. "We'll talk about it again. I think it's important to score as many runs as we can against a very good pitcher. Sometimes you try something a bit new, but if a guy isn't swinging the bat well you may make a switch. »Read Full Blog Post(53)
Marcum must figure it out
St. Louis - On surface, it seems reasonable that Brewers manager Ron Roenicke would consider replacing struggling starter Shaun Marcum with left-hander Chris Narveson should the NLCS vs. St. Louis advance to Game 6. Marcum is 0-2 with a 12.46 ERA in the postseason and has been in a month-long slide (1-4, 8.18 in his last six starts).
Conversely, Narveson has fared well against St. Louis, going 1-1 with a 1.20 ERA in three games (two starts) this season and 2-2, 3.00 in 13 career outings (five starts). But Roenicke noted Tuesday that Narveson is not stretched out after having some starts skipped in September, then being shifted to relief duty for the playoffs.
"That's the thing," said Roenicke. "I would feel a lot better about maybe doing that if 'Narvy' had pitched through the last month of the season in his regular rotation and we felt if we put him in now he's going to be the same guy. »Read Full Blog Post(60)
Hairston has been in McGehee's shoes
St. Louis -- Jerry Hairston Jr. knows what Casey McGehee is feeling.
Having grabbed the starting job at third base from him at the end of the regular season and run with it in the post-season to the tune of a .375 batting average, Hairston recounted a similar situation that occurred to him earlier in his career.
"There's a guy by the name of Brian Roberts," he said with a laugh following the Milwaukee Brewers' workout at Busch Stadium Tuesday in advance of their Game 3 NLCS matchup with the St. Louis Cardinals. »Read Full Blog Post(28)
Suppan to throw out 1st pitch
St. Louis - Jeff Suppan will throw out the ceremonial first pitch tonight before Game 3 of the NLCS between the Brewers and Cardinals at Busch Stadium.
So I ask ye, Brewer Nation: Do you consider that rubbing it in a bit?
Fans in Milwaukee might have a difficult time believing it, but Suppan is a postseason hero in Cardinal Nation. He was the MVP of the 2006 NLCS vs. New York when St. Louis was en route to winning the World Series. »Read Full Blog Post(84)
Rainy forecast an issue for Game 3
St. Louis - According to this morning's St. Louis Post-Dispatch, "there is a good chance of showers and thunderstorms today, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. Rain could be an issue for the Cardinals playoff game tonight."
The Brewers and Cardinals are scheduled to play Game 3 at 7:05 p.m. at Busch Stadium.
But already Tuesday there were plenty of questions about the possibility of a delay in the series and how it might affect pitching plans. If the game were to be rained out, it would be played Thursday, with Game 4 backed up to Friday and Game 5 on Saturday. »Read Full Blog Post(65)
Kotsay - not Morgan or Gomez - starting in CF
St. Louis -- Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke threw a curveball for Game 3 of the NLCS against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium tonight.
After Roenicke intimated yesterday Nyjer Morgan would be sitting, most assumed Carlos Gomez would get the start in center field. Instead, Mark Kotsay gets the nod and hits second.
This way, the Brewers keep a left-handed bat in the lineup, and Kotsay is 4 for 11 career against Cardinals starter Chris Carpenter as well. The only concern you might have is Kotsay patrolling the gaps in center in what projects to be a low-scoring game. »Read Full Blog Post(95)
No starts and stops wanted
St. Louis -- The grounds crew is removing the small tarps from the pitching mound and home plate, so that looks like an encouraging sign.
Workers are spreading a bit of diamond dust on the infield and have the bases ready to be installed.
Cardinals manager Tony La Russa gave a weather report in his pre-game interview with reporters. »Read Full Blog Post(8)
Starting Kotsay over Morgan
St. Louis -- It's hard to believe it's come to this, but the numbers don't lie.
With Nyjer Morgan hitting just .150 so far in the post-season (3 for 20), Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke made the move today to replace Morgan in center field and in the No. 2 spot in the lineup with veteran Mark Kotsay for Game 3 of the NLCS at Busch Stadium.
Morgan, of course, has been a catalyst at the top of the Brewers' lineup for most of the season. He also delivered one of the biggest hits in franchise history, singling up the middle to win Game 5 of the NLDS last Friday at Miller Park. »Read Full Blog Post(11)
'Ticketgate' is much ado
St. Louis - Brewers traveling secretary Dan Larrea said the supposed controversy over tickets given to family members of players by the Cardinals for NLCS games here is "much ado about nothing."
A story surfaced on ESPN.com that Brewers players were upset about tickets provided for their families because they weren't similar to those given the families of Cardinals players at Miller Park. But Larrea said the players were taken aback because the seats were different than those provided during the regular season.
The families are being accomodated in three party suites down the right-field line instead of behind home plate as usual. Other tickets for members of the Brewers traveling party were scattered about the stadium in twos and threes, according to Larrea, and some of those were returned. »Read Full Blog Post(8)
How rain affects starting pitching
St. Louis -- With the premium placed on starting pitching, it's no wonder Major League Baseball is keeping a close eye on Game 3 of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium.
The Milwaukee Brewers and St. Louis Cardinals are set to go at 7:05 p.m., but with rain forecast off and on for much of the evening in the area one of the major concerns is how it will affect Yovani Gallardo and Chris Carpenter.
You don't want them to get warmed up and then have a lengthy delay, or start the game and then have to delay it a couple innings into it. With that in mind, MLB officials have been keeping a close eye on things, and informing both sides as frequently as possible what things are looking like on the radar as the game draws closer. »Read Full Blog Post(11)
Game Blog: Brewers vs. Cardinals, NLCS Game 3
St. Louis - The threat of rain has hovered over Game 3 all day, but Brewers pitcher Randy Wolf said not to worry. "Well, according to my AccuWeather on my IPhone, we are not supposed to get any rain, so I think we are going to be OK," he said. "It's usually right, too."
It remains overcast at Busch Stadium. Both managers said in their pre-game interview sessions that they did not want to lose their starters by having the game begin and then be halted by showers. Commissioner Bud Selig also was keenly aware of that and trying to take precautions.
It's Cardinals ace Chris Carpenter, fresh off a three-hitter in Game 5 of the division series against the Phillies, and Brewers right-hander Yovani Gallardo. The Brewers won both games started by Gallardo in their division series victory over the Diamondbacks, and he was the winning pitcher in Game 1 of that series. »Read Full Blog Post(972)
Cardinals relievers slam door on Brewers in Game 3
St. Louis – Four runs in the first inning were enough for the St. Louis Cardinals.
A strong effort by the St. Louis bullpen preserved a 4-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers at Busch Stadium on Wednesday night as the Cardinals took a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven National League Championship Series.
The Cardinals batted around in the first inning against Brewers starter Yovani Gallardo, but they were shut down the rest of the night. »Read Full Blog Post(59)
Bullpen, not Carpenter, beats Brewers
St. Louis – It wasn't easy for the Brewers to reconcile the fact that they couldn't take advantage of St. Louis ace Chris Carpenter on a night when he showed up without his "A" game.
Brewers starter Yovani Gallardo proved more vulnerable, at least in the first inning when the Cardinals scored all of their runs and later used a stellar bullpen effort to hold on for a 4-3 victory in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium on Wednesday night.
The second consecutive triumph by the Cardinals gave them a 2-1 lead in the series. Since the seven-game format was introduced in 1985, only five teams who fell behind, 2-1, in the NLCS advanced to the World Series. »Read Full Blog Post(49)
Roenicke: Gomez never an option for Game 3
St. Louis - Mark Kotsay had an interesting night for the Brewers while starting in center field in Game 3 at Busch Stadium.
He was doubled off second base in the first inning on a flyout and failed to make a diving catch on Jon Jay's double in the Cardinals' four-run first. But Kotsay launched a home run off Cardinals ace Chris Carpenter to cut the Brewers' deficit to 4-3 in the third inning.
But the Brewers were unable to score again and lost by the same 4-3 margin as they fell behind, 2-1, in the best-of-seven National League Championship Series. »Read Full Blog Post(174)
Kotsay in again; Hart out
St. Louis -- Mark Kotsay earns his second straight start tonight for Game 4 of the NLCS at Busch Stadium, as the Milwaukee Brewers try to even things at 2-2 against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Kotsay, of course, had a game of ups and downs in the Brewers' 4-3 loss last night. But with Corey Hart struggling, and right-hander Kyle Lohse starting, manager Ron Roenicke slid Kotsay from center to right and then re-inserted Nyjer Morgan in center.
Kotsay stays in the No. 2 spot in the lineup, while Morgan slides up to leadoff. »Read Full Blog Post(212)
Of Prince and Albert
St. Louis - One of the biggest side stories to the NLCS has been the future of the first basemen.
It's generally thought that Prince Fielder won't be back with the Brewers. There's a chance Albert Pujols will finish his Hall of Fame career with the Cardinals.
The topic came up again Thursday before Game 4. Brewers manager Ron Roenicke, who has talked about Fielder's future many times before, patiently addressed it again. »Read Full Blog Post(8)
Why Roenicke chose Kotsay
We've already seen many queries as to why Brewers manager Ron Roenicke opted to go with Mark Kotsay in right field tonight in place of Corey Hart instead of, say, putting Carlos Gomez in center and Nyjer Morgan in right.
Roenicke explained his thinking in his pre-game briefing a few minutes ago.
"Corey is scuffling," said Roenicke, referring to Hart's 1-for-12 showing in the NLCS. "And he has scuffled against Lohse (2 for 17). I talked to him last night after the game and it sounded like putting Kotsay out there was a good way to go about it." »Read Full Blog Post(10)
Weeks stays at No. 5, more on Kotsay
St. Louis - Brewers manager Ron Roenicke talked about sitting Corey Hart for Game 4 and starting Mark Kotsay in center in Game 3.
But he wasn't asked about keeping Rickie Weeks in the No. 5 spot in the lineup. But I'm not sure why you would ask him. Who else are you going to put there?
Meanwhile, Roenicke talked again about and defended his decision to go with Kotsay in center the night before. »Read Full Blog Post(35)
Walk on by is not Roenicke's favorite tune
St. Louis - Ron Roenicke doesn't like to intentionally walk hitters.
But the Brewers manager did it twice in Game 3 on Wednesday night, passing red-hot Cardinals slugger Albert Pujols. And the strategy worked as both times Matt Holliday struck out to end St. Louis threats in the fourth and sixth innings.
The Brewers have issued four intentional walks in the postseason, including three last night (one to Nick Punto in the first inning). The other intentional walk did not work out when Miguel Montero was given a pass to get to Diamondbacks rookie Paul Goldschmidt, who followed with a grand slam homer off Shaun Marcum in Game 3 of the division series. »Read Full Blog Post(10)
Greinke meets the media
St. Louis -- Zack Greinke, the Milwaukee Brewers' Game 5 starter in the NLCS, met the media on Thursday afternoon at Busch Stadium.
While he wasn't quite as entertaining as his previous news-conference appearance prior to his Game 1 start at Miller Park, he still had some interesting things to say.
Here are a few excerpts: »Read Full Blog Post(10)
Game Blog: Brewers 4, Cardinals 2
St. Louis - The Brewers will try to even the National League Championship Series tonight at Busch Stadium as left-hander Randy Wolf goes against Cardinals righty Kyle Lohse. Wolf said he is glad to have the chance to redeem himself after a poor outing in Game 4 against Arizona in the divisional round.
Mark Kotsay makes his second straight start for the Brewers, moving to right field after playing in center on Wednesday in Game 3. Brewers manager Ron Roenicke made a spirited defense of his use of Kotsay before tonight's game. "I know you guys hammered me for Kotsay yesterday, but you know, Kotsay is a good outfielder," Roenicke said. "I didn't put somebody out there who was a bad outfielder."
Nyjer Morgan, hitting .143 in the postseason and going 0 for 5 thus far in the series against the Cardinals, is back in center field tonight and leading off. Corey Hart is on the bench. »Read Full Blog Post(1253)
Wolf's solid start allows Brewers to even series
St. Louis – Left-hander Randy Wolf gave the Milwaukee Brewers the starting pitching boost they desperately needed.
And the Brewers provided just enough offense to defeat the St. Louis Cardinals, 4-2, Thursday night and even the National League Championship Series at two games apiece.
Game 5 is scheduled Friday night in St. Louis and Game 6 will be played at Miller Park on Sunday, with either a 3 p.m. or 7 p.m. start time. »Read Full Blog Post(49)
Give Roenicke credit
St. Louis - Ron Roenicke was ripped after Game 3 for his Mark Kotsay call.
But give him credit for making the right calls in Game 4.
He put Nyjer Morgan back in center and at the top of the lineup. Morgan doubled in the fifth and scored what stood as the winning run on Ryan Braun's single. He also got the slumping Corey Hart out of the top spot. »Read Full Blog Post(45)
Wolf gets his redemption
St. Louis – Suffice it to say that Randy Wolf took it very hard when he was shelled by the Arizona Diamondbacks in Game 4 of the National League Division Series in Phoenix.
"I'll be honest with you," said the Brewers veteran lefty. "The day after the Diamondbacks start, I didn't eat or shower that day. I don't know if they call that depression but it was tough to swallow."
Game 4 of the National League Championship Series went much better for Wolf and his club, to say the least. With Wolf pitching seven strong innings, the Brewers came from behind Thursday night to top St. Louis, 4-2, at Busch Stadium and even the series at two games apiece. »Read Full Blog Post(41)
Video: Game 4 post-game discussion, news conferences
The Journal Sentinel's Tom Haudricourt and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Derrick Goold discuss Game 4 of the NLCS Thursday night.
Tony La Russa, Ron Roenicke, and Ryan Braun address the media after the game.
Now a best-of-three
St. Louis - So, the NLCS has become a best-of-three.
That's what it boils down to after the Brewers won Game 4 Thursday night, 4-2, over the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium to even the NLCS at two games apiece. The team that wins two of the remaining three scheduled games will advance to the World Series.
All of which makes Game 5 tonight HUGE. The Brewers obviously want to go home ahead in the series, 3-2, with two chances at Miller Park to go to the World Series. Otherwise, they will have to win both games there to advance. »Read Full Blog Post(208)
Hart, Gomez get starting nods
St. Louis -- Corey Hart is back in right field and Carlos Gomez is in center as the Milwaukee Brewers try to take a 3-2 lead over the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 5 of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium tonight.
Manager Ron Roenicke is trying to get as many right-handed bats into the lineup with the Cardinals starting lefty Jaime Garcia.
Brewers »Read Full Blog Post(134)
Roenicke stays with Marcum for Game 6
St. Louis - Shaun Marcum has made two poor starts in the playoffs, losing Game 3 against Arizona in the division series and Game 2 against the Cardinals in the league championship series.
But Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said he will stay with Marcum as his starter for Game 6 on Sunday at Miller Park. The Brewers and Cardinals are tied at 2-2 entering Friday night's Game 5 at Busch Stadium.
"Right now we are set on Game 6," Roenicke said in an interview sessions with reporters prior to Game 5. "I don't know what would come up to change my mind on that, but we talked about it quite a bit and we feel great with Marcum going, just like we felt great with (Randy) Wolf going yesterday. We expect a real good game from Shaun." »Read Full Blog Post(45)
Betancourt warms up at right time
St. Louis -- The 2011 season has been one of peaks and valleys for Yuniesky Betancourt.
Fortunately for the Milwaukee Brewers, their shortstop is again peaking -- and at the perfect time.
Going into Game 5 of the National League Championship Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Betancourt is one of the Brewers' hottest hitters. »Read Full Blog Post(12)
Rick Kranitz talks about personal loss
St. Louis - Brewers pitching coach Rick Kranitz talked Friday about his time away from the team last month when his mother passed away.
"Well, it's been hard," he said. "I don't know if anybody knew, my mother passed away during the season on Sept. 9, and it was very hard because we were very, very close. She watched every game.
"I heard from every single guy. I can remember telling my mon when we were close there, and it was near the end that Shaun Marcum texted me and, you know, it just really made her day. So she followed us. The guys were very helpful in getting me through that. Very supportive. You know, it's just like, 'Hey, what can you say?' These guys have been unbelievable for me." (4)
Game Blog: Brewers vs. Cardinals, NLCS Game 5
St. Louis - A beautiful day in the Gateway City has turned into a cool and windy fall night. It's a pivotal fifth game in the National League Championship Series as the Brewers try to take command heading home for Game 6 and Game 7, if necessary.
Brewers right-hander Zack Greinke, who benefited from an offensive outburst in Game 1 and picked up the victory, is seeking to hold the Cardinals down. St. Louis has left-handed hitting Lance Berkman back in the cleanup spot after he was limited to pinch-hitting duty in Game 4 on Thursday.
The Brewers will be facing lefty Jaime Garcia, the pitcher they beat in the series opener at Miller Park. Manager Ron Roenicke has his usual lineup against lefties, with Jerry Hairston Jr. batting second and Carlos Gomez in center field and batting seventh. »Read Full Blog Post(1258)
Error-filled night sends Brewers to Game 5 defeat
St. Louis – A porous defense hurt the Milwaukee Brewers in their 7-1 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 5 of the National League Championship Series on Friday night.
The Brewers committed four errors and St. Louis scored three unearned runs as it moved within one game of the World Series, taking a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven NLCS. Game 6 is scheduled Sunday as the series returns to Miller Park.
"Defensively, we gave up some runs," Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said. »Read Full Blog Post(55)
The defense rests
St. Louis – Over the course of a 162-game season, a team can overcome a substandard defense with quality pitching and enough timely hits.
In the crucible of a tie-breaking Game 5 of a postseason series, however, a horrid defensive showing can put a team on the brink of extinction.
The Brewers picked a very bad time Friday night to put their worst gloves forward, gift-wrapping enough runs for the St. Louis Cardinals to pull away to a 7-1 victory in Game 5 of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium. »Read Full Blog Post(75)
Video: Haudricourt, Roenicke, La Russa discuss Game 5
The Journal Sentinel's Tom Haudricourt and St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Joe Strauss break down the Cardinals' 7-1 victory in Game 5 of the NLCS in St. Louis Friday night.
Managers Tony La Russa and Ron Roenicke discuss the game.
Back home for Game 6
The Brewers arrived back in Milwaukee in the early morning hours following their 7-1 loss in St. Louis in Game 5 of the National League Championship Series on Friday night.
Now the Brewers will have to defeat the Cardinals in two straight games at Miller Park if they want to achieve their goal of reaching the World Series. St. Louis leads the series, 3-2, after winning two of three games at Busch Stadium.
"Certainly we're being pushed now," Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said. »Read Full Blog Post(114)
Brewers must forget Game 5
As left-hander Randy Wolf often describes it, the Brewers often resemble a group home for amnesiacs.
"If you've watched this team all year, the short memories are amazing," said Wolf.
Never has that quality been tested more than now. When the Brewers take the field Sunday at Miller Park for Game 6 of the National League Championship Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, they'll need to forget the stinker they played that put them in this 3-2 hole and on the brink of elimination. »Read Full Blog Post(38)
Weeks staying in lineup
Give credit to Brewers second baseman Rickie Weeks for trying to gut his way through the postseason on a left ankle that is far from 100%, the result of a horrible sprain in late July that sidelined him for six weeks.
Healthy or not, Weeks has struggled during the Brewers' two postseason series. He is batting .211 (4 for 19) in the NLCS against St. Louis with one homer and two RBI, and a meager .135 (5 for 37) for the entire postseason with only one other RBI.
Weeks also has committed four errors, but despite his unproductive play to this stage manager Ron Roenicke said he has no intention to give somebody else a shot at second base in Game 6 on Sunday. »Read Full Blog Post(92)
Game 6 for Brewers-Cardinals is a 7 p.m. start
Game 6 between the Brewers and St. Louis Cardinals will be played at 7 p.m. Sunday, thanks to the Texas Rangers winning the American League pennant on Saturday night.
The Rangers locked up a spot in the World Series with a 15-5 victory over the Detroit Tigers. It is the second straight AL title for the Rangers, who lost to the San Francisco Giants in the World Series last season.
The Brewers-Cardinals game will be televised on TBS. If the Brewers win Sunday and force a seventh game, it will be played at 7 p.m. Monday. »Read Full Blog Post(110)
Do-or-die lineup
The Brewers must win Game 6 of the NLCS vs. St. Louis tonight or their season is done. If they win, Game 7 will be at Miller Park on Monday at 7 p.m.
Here is the Brewers' lineup for Game 6, with no surprises:
RF Corey Hart
CF Nyjer Morgan
LF Ryan Braun
1B Prince Fielder
2B Rickie Weeks
3B Jerry Hairston Jr.
SS Yuniesky Betancourt
C Jonathan Lucroy
RHP Shaun Marcum
Berkman bats cleanup for Cardinals
Lance Berkman is batting cleanup in the Cardinals lineup for Game 6, with Matt Holliday in the fifth spot and David Freese sixth. Right-hander Edwin Jackson will start against the Brewers with a chance to help send St. Louis to the World Series.
The Cardinals are trying to get back to the World Series for the first time since 2006, when they defeated the New York Mets in the NLCS to reach baseball's ultimate test. St. Louis' last Game 6 victory in an NLCS came in 2004 when it beat Houston, 6-4, in 12 innings on a Jim Edmonds walk-off home run. The Cardinals went on to defeat the Detroit Tigers in five games in the World Series.
Cardinals manager Tony La Russa has 65 career postseason victories, third all-time behind Joe Torre (84) and Bobby Cox (67). »Read Full Blog Post(20)
Roenicke: Morgan is pressing
Nyjer Morgan is back in his usual spot for the Milwaukee Brewers tonight entering Game 6 of the National League Championship Series: playing center field and hitting second
It's been an up-and-down post-season for the guy known as Tony Plush.
He struggled for most of the NLDS before delivering one of the biggest hits in franchise history, the 10th-inning single that scored Carlos Gomez and beat the Arizona Diamondbacks, 3-2. »Read Full Blog Post(29)
Game Blog: Cardinals 12, Brewers 6
It's all on the line for the Brewers in Game 6 tonight at Miller Park. They trail the St. Louis Cardinals, 3-2, in the best-of-seven National League Championship Series. Win and play another day or lose and end their magical season.
Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said before the game he was confident in starter Shaun Marcum. And Roenicke said the Brewers' season-long success at Miller Park could be a factor. "I'm hoping a couple more games it's mystical, to get us to that next round," Roenicke said. "I bring up Albuquerque; I played there for a couple years.
"When we went to the park every single day, you knew you were going to get at least two hits. On your bad days you were going to get two hits. What a great way to go to the field. And I think these guys here, they have that feeling that when they come here, good things are going to happen. And when you feel that way, you play better." »Read Full Blog Post(1431)
Marcum, Brewers roughed up as Cards reach World Series
Right-hander Shaun Marcum's final postseason start was a dud.
And the Milwaukee Brewers never recovered from the St. Louis Cardinals' four-run first inning, falling at home, 12-6, in Game 6 of the National League Championship Series.
The Brewers' dream of returning to the World Series for the first time in 29 years ended at the hands of the Cardinals, the same team which beat them in the 1982 Series. The Cardinals won two of three games in Milwaukee and two of three in St. Louis to claim the series in six games. »Read Full Blog Post(78)
Nice sendoff for Fielder
Prince Fielder walked around the Brewers quiet clubhouse Sunday night hugging teammates and signing collectables.
"There were some clear-the-throat moments," the big slugger said.
He wouldn't answer questions about his pending free agency, but he talked about everything in the past tense where the Brewers are concerned. »Read Full Blog Post(71)
Ending with a thud
As uplifting as the 2011 season was in general for the Brewers, it's going to be a long winter as they ponder the two stinkers they played to fall short of their ultimate goal.
After tying the National League Championship Series in Game 4 with a crisply played 4-2 victory in St. Louis, the Brewers took a colossal pratfall on the national stage.
All hopes of bouncing back from a 7-1 clunker in Game 5 were quickly erased when Shaun Marcum – manager Ron Roenicke's controversial choice to start Game 6 – put the Brewers in a huge hole by allowing four first-inning runs. »Read Full Blog Post(672)
Attanasio promises more winning
Courtesy of Steve Haywood of ESPN 540 radio, I have some quotes to pass on from Brewers owner Mark Attanasio after the disappointing Game 6 loss in the NLCS to St. Louis.
Here is what Attanasio said about the season ending:
"I have very mixed emotions because I'm extremely disappointed right now. With that, I'm extremely proud of this team and those guys. No Milwaukee Brewers team has won this many games in history. We won 96 games in the regular season and five in the postseason. That's 101 wins. We're one of the two best teams in the league. »Read Full Blog Post(123)
Fielder's final words?
All the members of the Milwaukee Brewers' organization -- players, coaches, staff members, even owner Mark Attanasio -- spent time in the clubhouse after the Game 6 National League Championship Series loss hugging, shaking hands and generally congratulating each other on a great season.
In the midst of that, first baseman Prince Fielder, one of the cornerstones of the franchise, made his way across the hallway at Miller Park to meet with the media for what was probably the last time as a member of the Brewers.
The free-agent-to-be talked about Game 6, the season, and, of course his future. »Read Full Blog Post(246)
Looking back, and looking ahead
Having seen two wild celebrations in the Milwaukee Brewers' clubhouse since the end of the regular season, what occurred in there last night following the 12-6 Game 6 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals was about what you'd expect.
It was quiet. No music. But it also wasn't all that somber, either.
There were actually quite a few smiles as guys made their way around the room, from locker to locker, congratulating each other on the most exciting season the franchise has seen since 1982. »Read Full Blog Post(187)
Bradley to pitch; Boggs opts out
Left-handed pitcher Jed Bradley, one of the Milwaukee Brewers' two first-round picks in the June draft, will replace Tyler Thornburg in the Arizona Fall League, the team announced on Monday.
Bradley, who was drafted 15th overall out of Georgia Tech, suffered a groin injury and was replaced by Thornburg on the AFL roster in late September.
The injury was considered minor, though, and obviously the Brewers feel he's well enough to be able to get some work in, which is a good thing considering he didn't play at all in the minor leagues this season after holding out until the 11th hour before signing. »Read Full Blog Post(56)
Melvin: Mourning period over
Brewers general manager Doug Melvin just had his 2011 season wrapup at Miller Park and while he noted that it was natural to feel disappointed about the team's exodus from the NLCS, he doesn't want it to cloud the terrific season his club had.
"It's a couple of days after the elimination game and you're hoping that you feel better but there's still the same feeling of being so close to being in the World Series," said Melvin.
"After awhile, I try to continue to tell myself what a great year we had. We accomplished a lot. It does feel pretty good from that perspective. There were a lot of exciting moments and exciting times, and things that I'll never forget. »Read Full Blog Post(386)
A look at 1B options
With Prince Fielder a good bet to bolt the Brewers via free agency, many have asked what the market looks like for first basemen this winter.
Here is a good look at both the trade market and free agent market by Major League Baseball Trade Rumors.
As I noted in my just completed Brewers chat on jsonline.com, I think the Brewers will seriously consider giving Mat Gamel first crack at the job for 2012. (181)
Narveson undergoes hip surgery
Chris Narveson has undergone left-hip surgery, the Milwaukee Brewers announced this afternoon.
Narveson is scheduled for a follow-up visit with Dr. William Raasch on Wednesday before returning home to North Carolina to begin therapy, and he is expected to be ready for spring training.
The left-hander struggled out of the bullpen in the playoffs, giving up five home runs in 7 1/3 innings and posting an earned-run average of 11.05, but assistant general manager Gord Ash said the hip issue had no bearing on his performance. »Read Full Blog Post(49)
TSN honors Braun, Fielder
Brewers leftfielder Ryan Braun and first baseman Prince Fielder were named today to The Sporting News National League all-star team.
TSN picked Atlanta's Craig Kimbrel as its closer instead of the Brewers' John Axford even though they tied for the league lead with 46 saves and Axford had fewer blown saves. Kimbrel appeared in 79 games and posted a 2.10 ERA in 77 innings with 127 strikeouts and a .178 opponents batting average. Axford appeared in 74 games and posted a 1.95 ERA in 73 2/3 innings with 86 strikeouts and a .212 opponents batting average.
The Brewers, Braves (also C Brian McCann) and Dodgers (OF Matt Kemp, SP Clayton Kershaw) each had two players named to the team. (8)
Stetter sent outright to Nashville
The Brewers just announced they have outrighted left-handed reliever Mitch Stetter to Class AAA Nashville. It was only yesterday that the Brewers announced Stetter had been activated from the 60-day DL after undergoing hip surgery earlier in the year.
Stetter, 30, made 16 appearances for the Brewers this season, going 0-0 with a 5.14 ERA. He had surgery toward the end of the season to have a labrum tear repaired in his left hip.
The move has a few repercussions for Stetter and the club. He was arbitration-eligible but players must be on the 40-man roster to enter that process. The move also opened a spot on the 40-man roster that the Brewers can use later this off-season.
Because he was outrighted while injured, Stetter has the right to declare free agency. In any event, he is a pending six-year minor-league free agent. (103)
Axford's mustache is honored
Beyond being one of the top closers in the major leagues, the Brewers' John Axford has grown attention for the various mustaches he has grown over the years.
Axford has received even more attench for his "stache" by being named the 2011 Robert Goulet Mustached American of the Year by American Mustache Institute (AMI).
Never mind that Axford is Canadian, not American. That technicality was overlooked in getting this award from AMI. »Read Full Blog Post(27)
And the clock begins ticking
With the St. Louis Cardinals having wrapped up their 11th World Series title on Friday night, a critical 15-day window has now been opened for the Milwaukee Brewers.
In is, the team has exclusive negotiating rights with free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder, one of the key cogs in its recently completed 96-win season and a franchise cornerstone who's become one of the most feared sluggers in all of baseball.
The realities of the situation have been known for some time. »Read Full Blog Post(98)
Brewers decline K-Rod, Betancourt options
The Milwaukee Brewers officially announced Sunday night that they have declined the mutual option on reliever Francisco Rodriguez as well as the club option on shortstop Yuniesky Betancourt.
The "K-Rod" move is not surprising because, if you recall, his vesting option was reworked after he was acquired in trade from the Mets. The $17.5 option was changed to a mutual option with a buyout that was increased from $3.5 million to $4 million. That was a deal worked out by the Brewers and K-Rod to avoid any messiness with a vesting clause that would affect his use.
The Mets are expected to pay most, if not all, of the buyout. »Read Full Blog Post(133)
La Russa announces retirement
In something of a shocker, the St. Louis Cardinals just held a press conference in which manager Tony La Russa announced his retirement.
Don't know if winning the World Series was the clincher but La Russa is going out on top after his wild-card Cardinals got hot at the right time and won it all, beating Texas in seven games.
La Russa, 67, won one World Series title in Oakland and two in St. Louis (2006 and 2011). He ranks third in major league victories with 2,728, trailing only Connie Mack (3,731) and John McGraw (2,763). He had managed a record 16 seasons in St. Louis. »Read Full Blog Post(109)
Braun voted Brewers' MVP
In what could very well be a foreshadowing of things to come on a national scale, leftfielder Ryan Braun has been voted the Milwaukee Brewers' most valuable player for 2011 by the Milwaukee chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America.
A total of eight ballots were cast for each award, assigning three points for first place, two for second and one for third.
Whereas last year's winner, third baseman Casey McGehee, had to fight off competition from a number of his teammates, there was no question this time around as Braun was a unanimous selection on all eight ballots (24 points). »Read Full Blog Post(17)
Brewers have four ranked FAs
The Elias rankings for the 2011 free-agent class have been determined and the Brewers have four ranked free agents.
First baseman Prince Fielder and relievers Francisco Rodriguez and Takashi Saito are all ranked as Class A free agents. Shortstop Yuniesky Betancourt is ranked as a Class B free agent. The rankings are based on a statistical formula from the 2010 and 2011 seasons.
If a team offers a Class A free agent arbitration and he signs with another club, the original team gets the new team's first- or second-round pick, depending on whether the new team is in the top 15 or bottom 15 in won-loss records in 2011, as well as a supplemental pick after the first round. »Read Full Blog Post(71)
Yount to announce new Northwoods team
Baseball and Milwaukee Brewers Hall of Famer Robin Yount will announce the name and manager of the latest entry into the Northwoods League on Tuesday afternoon at Concordia College, the school announced.
Yount is a minority owner in the expansion franchise, which will join the collegiate wood bat league for the 2012 season.
The team will play its games at Concordia's new field, a 2,000-seat stadium named Kapco Park.
The Northwoods League has featured 16 teams with six located in Wisconsin: the Eau Claire Express, the Green Bay Bullfrogs, the LaCrosse Loggers, the Madison Mallards, the Wisconsin Woodchucks (Wausau) and the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters. (11)
Braun is Brewers' lone Gold Glove finalist
Ryan Braun is one of three leftfielders up for the Rawlings Gold Glove Award, which is presented annually to the best defensive player at each position in the National and American Leagues.
This year, Brewers fans will have the opportunity to watch the announcements live on ESPN2 on Tuesday at 9 p.m. Central time.
Braun committed one error in 268 chances in left for a fielding percentage of .996. He also had eight assists and 259 putouts. »Read Full Blog Post(43)


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Reg. $125.00
Sale! $20.99
Coconut Buttons. Garment washed for comfort. Front Chest pockets. Curved Bottom. 100 % Linen. Machine Washable. Imported.
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(based on 1 review)
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Vibrant and Comfortable
By mark the global mercy worker
from Villavicencio, COLOMBIA
Best Uses
Great shirt! I wear long sleeve linen in the tropical heat of South America to keep me ventilated and protected from the sun. I've had six previous JAB linen shirts, and they just keep getting better. This is a perfect weight fabric, not too thin so it holds it shape and can take a good ironing (if you insist). The cuffs are double weight fabric to assist rolling them up. But the collar lays perfectly without doubling up the fabric--nice decision for comfort and breathability. The color is beautiful and vibrant, and the breast pocket is utilitarian. The coconut shell buttons keep it from being a business shirt, but still fine for casual Fridays in the office and perfect for relaxing at home or on a hot weather vacation. Sizing is spot on.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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