Game Thread #99: Milwaukee Brewers (56-42) @ Minnesota Twins (54-43)

Brewers look to sweep two-game series after extra-innings victory

The Brewers certainly put on a show as they returned from the All-Star break with their extra-innings victory last night. They look to close out the two-game series with newcomer Aaron Civale on the mound.

Civale was brought in to help fortify the rotation and his most recent start was more evidence of what he’s capable of doing. His 6 ¹⁄₃ inning start against the Pirates was his most impressive start for Milwaukee, allowing just one run while striking out six. Minnesota has been one of the most prudent teams in baseball with just a 17.7% strikeout rate over the last 30 days, so it will be a gripping contest as Civale works around their adapting lineup.

The lineup takes a familiar look at the top with Brice Turang batting leadoff, followed by William Contreras. With Christian Yelich receiving the day off, though, Willy Adames bats third followed by Sal Frelick in the cleanup spot.

Frelick’s recent performance has been encouraging with a .308 batting average in July. Along with his defensive value, his ability to get on base has been an important development for the Brewers lately. He’ll slot in at right field.

In the outfield with Frelick is Garrett Mitchell in center field and Jackson Chourio in left field. Mitchell has been limited due to injury this year, but his form could be another potent presence for the Brewers as he establishes regular playing time again.

With Adames and Turang up the middle, Rhys Hoskins plays first base with Joey Ortiz at the hot corner. Ortiz’s return is yet again a positive sign for the Brewers as their lineup is returning to full strength.

With Contreras starting at designated hitter, Eric Haase gets an opportunity as the catcher. Haase has just 18 plate appearances this season, but he’s made the most of it with a .353 batting average and five RBIs.

The Brewers will face down Joe Ryan, the right-handed starter for the Twins. Ryan has a dominant profile when he’s at his best with one of the best K-BB% rates in baseball at 22.9%. His strikeout potential has been evident in his three most recent starts with 24 strikeouts in 16 ²⁄₃ innings. That stellar, wipeout profile has been marred by the 4.86 ERA in that time, but he is a dangerous pitcher regardless.

First pitch this evening is at 12:05 p.m. and is available on the Roku channel.

Today’s game comes with some roster moves for the Brewers, as well. Jared Koenig has been effective all year and has been reinstated from the 15-day injured list.

Joel Kuhnel was designated for assignment. He has made only one appearance for the Brewers this year, a two-inning outing against the Rangers in April.

One of the most encouraging signs in the injury department this week is DL Hall starting a rehab assignment in Triple-A Nashville. While his major league performance has been spotty this year, it will be a crucial story to follow as he works his way back to the major league roster.