Game Thread #109: Milwaukee Brewers (61-47) @ Washington Nationals (49-60)

Frankie Montas makes Milwaukee debut

One of the Brewers’ most notable moves over the past week was the acquisition of Frankie Montas, tonight’s starter against the Washington Nationals.

Montas had a 5.01 ERA this season for the Cincinnati Reds. While he might not be pitching like an ace, he’s an intriguing arm for a team in need of help. He has had impressive stretches throughout his career, so tonight will be the first glimpse if Milwaukee can help him unlock that previous potential.

Brice Turang bats leadoff while playing second base. In the infield, he’ll be accompanied by the usual trio of Joey Ortiz, Willy Adames, and Rhys Hoskins. Hoskins has been heating up lately with seven home runs over the last 30 days tied for 12th in baseball.

Jackson Chourio has been even more dangerous with the bat. Over the last 10 games, he’s batting a wild .390 with three home runs and nine RBIs. He’s struck out just 7.1% of the time in that span with a 50% hard-hit rate that’s nearly seven ticks above his season mark of 43.7%.

Joining Chourio in the outfield grass are Garrett Mitchell and Sal Frelick. That creates an open DH-spot for Jake Bauers to slot into the middle of the lineup.

William Contreras will be behind the plate. After a sluggish June, Contreras has found his footing again with a .244/.356/.395 (114 wRC+) this month. While he hasn’t been mashing as much as he did earlier this year, he has been walking more and making better contact than he did in June.

First pitch is at 5:45 p.m., and will be available on Apple TV+ for Friday Night Baseball.