Brewers Power Past Cubs, Take 2-0 Lead in NLDS

The Milwaukee Brewers secured a commanding 2-0 lead in the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Chicago Cubs with a decisive 7-3 victory on October 9, 2023. The game, held at American Family Field, was marked by a series of home runs that highlighted the Brewers’ offensive prowess.

Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga faced significant challenges on the mound, allowing two home runs during the game. This marked a troubling trend for Imanaga, who has now surrendered a total of 15 home runs over his last eight starts. In addition to Imanaga’s struggles, Daniel Palencia also gave up a three-run homer, contributing to the Cubs’ defeat. The loss places the Cubs in a precarious situation as they head into Game 3 at Wrigley Field on October 11.

The first inning showcased an explosive start, featuring back-to-back three-run home runs. The Cubs initially took the lead with a stunning 440-foot blast from Seiya Suzuki. However, the Brewers quickly responded with a home run from Andrew Vaughn, marking his first long ball since August 16. Notably, according to the TBS broadcast, the 13 combined runs scored in the first inning of the first two games of this series sets a new MLB record.

In the third inning, Imanaga faced further difficulties as William Contreras launched a solo home run. Following this, Palencia found himself in a challenging position, allowing Jackson Chourio to hit a two-out, three-run shot on an 0-2 count. Chourio had been questionable for the game due to hamstring tightness, but his performance proved critical in the Brewers’ success.

During the regular season, the Cubs boasted a powerful lineup, ranking sixth in MLB with 223 home runs, while the Brewers placed 22nd with 166. The Brewers employed a strategic pitching approach in Game 2, starting left-handed reliever Aaron Ashby. This raised questions about whether Ashby would serve as a single-inning opener or if he would pitch longer. He ultimately faced the Cubs’ leadoff batter, Justin Turner, twice before departing after allowing a hit.

As the game progressed, Nick Mears took over for the second inning, followed by Jacob Misiorowski, who showcased his impressive arm, throwing 31 pitches exceeding 100 mph, peaking at 104.3 mph. This strategy indicated that the Brewers were leaning toward a bullpen game, which proved effective in stifling the Cubs’ offense.

The Brewers’ pitching staff has been bolstered by the unexpected performance of Quinn Priester. Originally a first-round pick in 2019 by Pittsburgh, Priester was acquired by the Brewers in a trade after struggling in Triple-A with Boston. His addition has been pivotal, as he has helped propel the Brewers to a remarkable streak of 19 consecutive victories in games he started, concluding with a personal record of 13-3 and a 3.32 ERA.

Manager Pat Murphy praised Priester’s journey, stating, “Quinn Priester, an amazing story. We go pluck a kid from Triple-A… and he’s been great.” His unexpected rise has become a key element in the Brewers’ postseason strategy.

As the series shifts to Wrigley Field, the Cubs face the daunting task of overcoming a 0-2 deficit in a best-of-five series. With Game 3 on the horizon, the team must recalibrate and harness their home-field advantage to remain competitive in the postseason.