Game Thread #103: Milwaukee Brewers (59-43) vs. Miami Marlins (37-66)

Brewers look for momentum as deadline approaches

The Brewers continue their quest for a division title as the Miami Marlins come to town for a three-game series.

While the Marlins aren’t a formidable foe by their record, the series presents several interesting storylines. The Brewers have to prepare for life without Christian Yelich and the Marlins will feature several players sweeping through trade rumors everywhere.

While the lineup may need to adapt without Yelich’s presence, the Brewers still have plenty of capable hitters. Tonight’s lineup features both Jackson Chourio and Brice Turang atop the order. These two players are certainly capable of stirring up trouble for pitchers, setting the stage for the rest of the lineup.

Alongside Chourio in the outfield is center fielder Blake Perkins and right fielder Sal Frelick. Both Perkins and Frelick have been above-average hitters over the past 30 days, forming a trio with Chourio that can influence a game both with their bats and their gloves.

Joey Ortiz is set to start at third base. He’s still looking for a rhythm since returning from injury. His ability to round into form is one important factor to consider as the Brewers look for a deep, consistent lineup even without Yelich.

Willy Adames comes in at shortstop, forming the double play tandem with Turang. Rhys Hoskins takes first base to finish out the infield. William Contreras will be the catcher, slotting in at third in the order to make room for Chourio and Turang ahead of him.

On the mound is Brewers ace Freddy Peralta. It’s been an uneven year for Peralta, but his most recent performance was an encouraging one as the team looks to build on their division lead with consistent, high-end outings from their star pitcher. In six scoreless innings against the Twins, Peralta struck out eight batters while allowing just two hits.

The Brewers will face Marlins starter Trevor Rogers, who has had a disappointing season, but has put together several respectable starts lately. Entering June, Rogers had a 5.65 ERA. Since his June 2 start, he has a 3.49 mark. Rogers’ walk rate has been a problem for him lately, walking 5.11 batters per nine innings over his last five starts.

The Brewers made a notable transaction today when they had to place Rob Zastryzny on the 15-day injured list for left elbow tendinitis. The move is retroactive to July 25. Janson Junk was recalled from Triple-A Nashville in a corresponding move. Junk has only pitched five innings for Milwaukee this season with a 9.00 ERA in three appearances.

First pitch is set for 7:10 p.m. on Bally Sports Wisconsin and the Brewers Radio Network.