Brewers vs Pirates Game 3, August 31st

WELCOME TO HISTORY!!!!! Regardless of what the official scorer in Pittsburgh has to say, CC Sabathia just threw the second no hitter in Milwaukee Brewers history!!! The game started out with a band when Rickie Weeks hit his 10th career lead off home run. The Brewers had a 1-0 lead, and that is all the Brewers would need. CC was mowing down Pirate hitters left and right. He was mixing up his pitches well, and there were not many well hit balls by Pittsburgh. In the 5th inning Andy LaRoche hit a little dribbler back to the mound, and CC tried to barehand the ball, but missed and LaRoche was safe at first. The offical scorer had called it a hit by the the time LaRoche was standing on first. LaRoache was only halfway down the line when Sabathia tried to barehanded the ball when he easily could have used his glove, and thrown LaRoche out. Nevertheless, it was ruled a hit and that was the only hit Pittsburgh would get. Young Pittsburgh pitcher Jeff Karstens was pitching well, and hadn't given up another run to the Brewers until the 7th inning. Milwaukee would score 4 runs in the 8th and add 2 more in the 9th. CC Sabathia continued to sit down Pirate hitters and after Corey Hart recorded the last out by catching a fly ball, the Brewers mildly celebrated. After the game Brewer 3rd baseman Bill Hall said the team was celebrating like it was a no hitter, and the Brewers were planning to appeal the ruling by the official scorer.

Most Valuable Brewer: Obviously CC Sabathia, who pitched 9 complete innings giving up 0 or 1 hits, giving up 0 runs, and striking 11 batters. CC should be only the 2nd pitcher in Brewers history to throw a no hitter.

Brewers vs Pirates Game 2, August 30th

Jeff Suppan took on Pirates pitcher Paul Maholm Saturday night in Pittsburgh. The Brewers found some offense in the top of teh 2nd inning when Corey Hart hit is 20th home run of the year. The Brewers really broke the game open in the 6th inning when they put up 5 runs to take a 7-0 lead. Meanwhile, Suppan was pitching a very good game and pitched 7 strong innings giving up only 3 hits and 2 earned runs. Mike Cameron continued to stay hot on this road trip. He hit his 24th home ruin of the year, and had a total of 4 RBI's. The Brewers cruised to an easy 11-3 victory.

Most Valuable Brewer: Corey Hart! Corey became the first player in Brewers history to have back to back 20 home run and 20 steals in a single season. Well down Mr. Hart, i would like to see him have 5 straight 20/20 seasons. Corey also went 3-5 and scored 3 runs in the game Saturday night.

Brewers vs Pirates Game 1, August 29th

Friday night the Brewers traveled to Pittsburgh for a weekend series with the Pirates. The action started right away as Ryan Braun hit a 3 run home run in the first inning to give the Crew a 3-0 lead. Unfortunately, this was about it for action in this game. Dave Bush was on the mound for the Brewers and he had a very solid outing. Dave's only mistake in the games was a 5th inning solo home run to Nate McLouth. Bush pitched 6 2/3 innings and gave up only 6 hits and one run. The Brewers would not scored again, but cruised to a 3-1 win, and Salomon Torres picked up his 26th save of the year.

Most Valuable Brewer: Ryan Braun who went 2-4 with 3 RBI's. Braun now has 34 home runs and 95 RBI's on the season.

Classless in St. Louis

Believe it or not I am beginning to hate the St. Louis Cardinals almost as much as the Chicago Cubs. At least when the Brewers play the Cubs they have some class (their fans don't, but that's another story). It all started last year when the Cardinals pitchers repeatedly hit Brewer batters. Caught up in the heat of the moment, and wanting to defend his players, Brewers manager Ned Yost returned some of that fire had Seth McClung plunk Albert Pujols. Fast forward to this year, the Brewers are completely manhandling the Cardinals. We finished the season series at 10-5. Also, if the season ended today the Brewers would win the wild card race, and the Cardinals would be on the outside looking in and sitting on their couches during the playoffs. The Cardinals said they have had a problem withe Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder "watching" home runs. Albert Pujols does the same exact thing, is it wrong when he does it? The Cardinals have a problem with the Brewers untucking their jerseys after a win. Seriously? The Brewers do this for team unity and it started out with Mike Cameron doing it as a tribute to his working class dad who would come home after a hard days work and untuck his shirt and relax. Here is an idea if you have a problem with the Brewers untucking their shirts after a win, beat them. I think the problem is they have watched the Brewers untuck their shirts twice as much as not watching them untuck their shirts. I found it interesting that during Wednesday's game Adam Wainwright had pinpoint control all night and did not walk a batter, but one pitch happened to get away from him, and it happened to hit Ryan Braun right in the ribs. Ryan Braun showed class and took his base. He did not charge the mound, and the Brewers did not retaliate. There were also Cardinal players throwing batting helmets on the ground after making outs. Not too classy. Then at the end of the night, when the Cardinals finally won, you would have thought they just clinched a playoff spot they way they were celebrating. Don't get me wrong, I am all for celebrating after a win, but don't call someone out for doing it then do it yourself. The Cardinals, a far more veteran team than the Brewers, have a lot of growing up to do. Stay classy St. Louis.

Brewers vs Cardinals Game 2, August 27th

It was definitely a playoff atmosphere in St. Louis Wednesday night. The Brewers looked to take sweep the short 2 game series against the Cardinals and ho up 5 1/2 games in the wild card race. Manny Parra made the start for the Brewers and he definitely pitched good enough to win pitching 6.0 innings giving up only 6 hits and 1 run while striking out 7. The Brewers were facing Adam Wainwright who gave up 3 runs in his 6 innings of work. The Brewers looked to be cruising to their second straight road sweep of the Cardinals. Carlos Villanueva came in during the 12th inning and was able to get out of a bases loaded jam without giving up a run and keeping Albert Pujols in the on deck circle. After the inning ended Villanueva was visibly excited and apparently Pujols thought something was directed towards the Cardinals dugout, and he and Villanueva exchanged some words. In the bottom of the 8th inning Pujols lead off with a double, then Ludwick doubled. Troy Glaus then followed with a single, when he was down 0-2 and Riske threw 2 pitches over the middle of the plate. The Cardinals scored 4 runs total in the 8th and had a 5-3 lead. The Cardinals new closer Chris Perez came in and struck out the side, and you would have thought the Cardinals had just won the division the way they were jumping all over the field. The Brewers lost and their wild card lead fell to 3 1/2 games. The Brewers travel to Pittsburgh this weekend for another series with the Pirates.

Most Valuable Brewer: Manny Parra for his very solid outing against the Cardinals. Parra pitched well enough to win and he should have gotten the victory.

Brewers vs Cardinals Game 1, August 26th

In what could be considered the most important game of the year so far, the Brewers went down to Busch Field Tuesday night for the first of a 2 game series with the Cardinals. Ben Sheets took the mound against Todd Wellemeyer. The Brewers hit the ball very well in the first inning and had bases loaded, but only scored 1 run on a Prince Fielder single. Sheets found himself in some trouble early, but always seemed to work out of it and come out clean. The Brewers added a second run in the 3rd inning on a Prince Fielder ground out after JJ Hardy lead off the inning with a stand up triple. Ben Sheets still had the game locked down, and would leave after 6 innings of work with a 5-0 lead after Ryan Braun belted a 2 run home run. Sheets would give up 5 hits and 2 walks, but surrender 0 runs. The Brewers bullpen did an excellent job only giving up 2 hits in their collective 3 innings of work. The Brewers really made a statement in the 9th inning when the scored 7 runs. Highlighted by a 2 run Bill Hall home run. The Crew came out and made a statement when they had to. At worst they leave St. Louis with the same 3 1/2 game lead on the wild card race, at best the leave with a 5 1/2 game lead. I Look for the Brewers to come out and make a statemnet Wednesday night.

Most Valuable Brewer: Ben Sheets, he pitched 6 strong innings, and held the Cardinals scoreless in a big game that they had to win.

Pirates vs Brewers Game 3, August 24th

Break out the brooms because the Milwaukee Brewers just swept the Pittsburgh Pirates right out of Wisconsin! CC Sabathia made the start for the Brewers, but unlike his previous starts in a Brewers uniform, he did not go the distance. CC had a solid start throwing 96 pitches in just 6 innings of work, but gave up only 1 earned run. The Brewers scored 2 runs in the 6th behind a Mike Cameron RBI single and Gabe Kapler had an RBI single when he pinch hit for Sabathia. David Riske then gave the run back to the Pirates in the 7th inning, prevent Sabathia from earning the win. In the bottom of the 8th Prince Fielder drew a lead off walk, but Corey Hart did not bunt him over and hit into a double play instead. The following batter Mike Cameron hit a home run and instead of it being a 4-2 game, it was a 3-2 game. That was significant because Salomon Torres would give up a run in the 9th and blow the save. The Brewers once again the Brewers were headed to extra innings. After a scoreless 10th and 11th inning Carlos Villanueva found himself in a bases loaded jam with no outs. Brewers nation held their collective breathes as Ned Yost brought in Guillermo Mota. Mota induced a shallow fly ball to center field, that did not allow the runner to tag, followed by a strike out, and ending with a little roller back to the mound that easily retired the runner. After a lead off ground out by Craig Counsell, Rickie Weeks drew a walk and stole second base. In sweet poetic justice, on JJ Hardy bobble head day, JJ Hardy singled to center field, and Rickie Weeks came home to score.

Most Valuable Brewer: Mike Cameron. Cameron had some clutch hits and RBI's not to mention that he did go 5-5, hit his 23rd home run and has improved his batting average to .257. This is the Mike Cameron that Brewers fans were excited about when we signed him this winter.

Pirates vs Brewers Game 2, August 23rd

Believe it or not the Milwaukee Brewers are 20 games over .500! Jeff Suppan turned in a solid performance on Saturday night, going 7 innings and only giving up 3 runs. The Brewers gave Suppan some run support early, when they scored 2 runs in the first inning. Ryan Braun hit a solo home run in the 4th, and he added a 2 run double in the 5th. The Brewers were off to an early 6-0 lead. Suppan gave up 2 runs in the 6th, and one run in the 8th. Brian Shouse finished off the 8th inning and Salomon Torres recorded his 25th save in the 9th inning. The Brewers aded another game to their Wild Card led on the Cardinals, and kept pace with the Cubs with their win Saturday night. CC Sabathia is pitching on Sunday, so break out those brooms.

Most Valuable Brewer: Surprise, Surprise, Ryan Braun! Brauny went 2-4 with a home run (32), a double, 2 runs scored, and 3 RBI's. Not a bad day if you ask me. He also has his batting average up to .302.

Pirates vs Brewers Game 1, August 22nd

The Cubs lost Friday afternoon, so the Brewers can make up some ground as they take on the Pittsburgh Pirates. Dave Bush was the starting pitcher for the Crew and he was a little shake early giving up a run in each of the first two innings. The Brewers however could not get things going at the plate until the 4th inning when Corey Hart doubled in Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder. Hart would later score in the inning off of a Bill Hall sacrifice fly. JJ Hardy added his 20th homer of the year in the 5th inning to give the Brewers a 4-2 lead. Dave Bush pitched the 7th inning giving up a solo home run to Brandon Moss. Bush's pitched 7 innings giving up 3 runs, another quality start for Bush, putting the Brewers in position to win. The Brewers exploded in the bottom of the 7th putting up 6 runs and stretching their lead to 10-3. Lance Nix lead off the inning for Bush. Rickie Weeks tripled in Nix and then scored on a JJ Hardy double. Hardy scored on a Ryan Braun double, who scored on a ground out by Prince. Mike Cameron hit his 22 home run of the season that also scored Corey Hart. Brewers reliever Eric Gagne gave up a run in the 8th and Seth McClung ended the game in the 9th. Big win for the Crew as the make up a game on the Cubs and move to 19 games over .500.

Most Valuable Brewer: JJ Hardy, who went 2-5 with a home run and a double scoring 2 runs and driving in 2 runs. JJ is now the 4th Brewers to have at least 20 home runs, and Corey Hart is knocking on that door with 19.

Astros vs Brewers Game 3, August 20th

The Brewers pleasant surprise Manny Parra took the mound on Wednesday in search of his 10th win of the season. The Brewers got off to a hot start in the first inning scoring 2 runs. The Brewers took a 3-0 lead in the 3rd inning when Prince Fielder got his second sacrifice fly of the game. The Brewers gave up 2 runs in the top of the 5th, but still lead 3-2. Manny Parra's night ended after the 5th giving up 6 hits and just 2 runs. Carlos Villanueva pitched 2 perfect innings, striking out 3. JJ Hardy added some much needed insurance runs when he blasted his 19th home run in the 7th inning. Eric Gagne pitched a very nice 8th inning to set up a save opportunity for Salomon Torres. Torres came on and pitched a perfect 9th inning on the way to his 24th save of the season.

Most Valuable Brewer: Rickie Weeks! Rickie was 0-1 at the plate, but walked 3 times and scored 3 runs. We need to see this type of production from our lead off hitter. Hopefully Rickie can get some confidence at the plate and get on base any way he can.

Astros vs Brewers Game 2, August 19th

Tuesday the Brewers looked to make it 2 in a row with Ben Sheets making the start against Brian Moehler of the Astros. The Brewers were doing well early scoring a run each of the first 2 innings. However, they would not score again. Sheets would give up 5 earned runs in only 6 innings of work. Sheets continues to struggle for the Brewers. If the Brewers make it to the playoffs, and hope to go deep into October, they are going to need solid work out of the aces. Sheets needs relax and find his zone again. The Astros have a very strong lineup, but still not as good as the Cubs. I think Sheets will be able to lock it in and give the Brewers a chance to do something great this post season.

Most Valuable Brewer: Jason Kendall, he went 3-4 and was the only real highlight for the Brewers in this one.

Astros vs Brewers Game 1, August 18th

The B-52 Bomber, CC Sabathia once again took the hill for the Brewers, and once again he was lights out. This is the type of return Doug Melvin and company was hoping for when they traded top prospect Matt LaPorta in July for Sabathia. Sabathia went and dominated the game for all 9 innings. Sabathia gave up 11 hits over the innings, but surrender only 2 earned runs, 3 runs total. Sabathia also helped his own cause at the plate. He went 2-3 with 2 RBI's and scored a run. Ray Durham had a nice game at the plate, going 3-5 with 3 RBI's. Corey Hart also continued to stay hot as he went 3-4 with 2 RBIS, scoring 2 runs and hitting his 19th home run of the year. The Brewers cruised to an easy 9-3 victory.

Most Valuable Brewer: CC Sabathia, got it done from the mound and at the plate. I am starting to have dreams about Sabathia pitching in a Brewers uniform next year.

Brewers vs. Dodgers Game 3, August 17th

Sunday, was the rubber match between the Milwaukee Brewers and LA Dodgers. Jeff Suppan took the mound for the Brewers and was rocked in the first inning. Andre Ethier hit Suppan's first pitch for the fence, and Manny Ramirez soon followed with a 2-run homer of his own. The Brewers found themselves in a hole ealry. Dodger pitcher Clayton Kershaw, the youngest player in the major leagues, was on top of his game. Kershaw's only blemish was a 4th inning solo home run to Mike Cameron. Kershaw and Suppan left after 6 innings and the Dodgers lead 4-1. The Dodgers added another run and the Brewers trailed 5-1 going into the top of the 9th. Ray Durham hit a 2-RBI single to make the score 3-5. JJ Hardy was retired bringing up Ryan Braun with one on, 2 out and the Brewers still trailing by 2. Braun was down 0-2 in the count when he laced a line drive home run to left field, tying the game at 5. The Brewers were unable to take the lead, but sent Carlos Villanueva to the mound to try and force extra innings. Villanueva gave up a lead off single bringing up Andre Ethier. Either then hammered a Villanueva offering for a 2-run walk off home run. It was a heart breaking loss for the Brewers after fighting back to tie the game in the 9th. Hopefully some home cooking is what the Brewers need as they head back to Milwaukee for a series with the Houston Astros.

Most Valuable Brewer: Ryan Braun, after being out of the starting lineup for a full week. Braun went 2-5 with a 2 run home run. Braun had to have been excited to be playing in front of his hometown crowd. Braun is said to have purchased 200 tickets in left field for friends and family.

Brewers vs. Dodgers Game 2, August 16th

Fresh off of their lose to the Dodgers in Game 1 of the series, Dave Bush took the hill for the Crew against Derek Lowe for the Dodgers. Dave Bush struggled early, giving up a 2 run home run to the second batter he faced, but he was locked in from there. The Brewers were able to put up a run in the top of the 2nd to make it a 2-1 game. from then on it was a pitcher's duel. Bush and Lowe both proceeded to mow down the opposing lineups. The Brewers entered the 8th inning still trailing 2-1. Sensing their time was running short, Brewers skipper Ned Yost pinch hit Ryan Braun for the Dave Bush to lead off the inning. Braun hit a lead off double, but Ray Durham was unable to get him home. JJ Hardy followed with a 2-run homer on a 3-2 pitch. The Brewers took the 3-2 lead into the bottom of the 9th inning. instead of having Brewers closer Salomon Torres start the inning, Yost had Left handed pitcher Brian Shouse start the inning to face Andre Ethier. Shouse walked Ethier, and Torres struggled to get out of the inning against the heart of the Dodger order. Torres induced what looked to be a double play ball to JJ Hardy, but the ball snuck under JJ's glove and into the outfield. The Dodgers tied the game at 3, but Torres was able to work his way out of the inning to force extra innings. In the 10th inning JJ Hardy was given a chance to redeem himself, and he rose to the challenge driving in what would prove to be the winning run. i would be remiss if i did not mention the defense that was played by the outfielders in this game. Corey Hart made a great diving catch in the 2nd, Mike Cameron made a pair of diving catches, but it was Gabe Kapler who stole the show. Kapler robbed Russell Martin of what would have easily been a home run, and almost wound up in the outfield seats himself. This can easily be described as the Brewers catch of the year so far, if not the best catch in all of baseball so far this season.

Most Valuable Brewer: JJ Hardy, JJ went from hero, to goat and back to hero. JJ's bat is a big reason why the Brewers won the game.

Brewers vs. Dodgers Game 1, August 15th

Manny Parra was on the mound for the Crew on Friday as he took on Chad Billingsley of the LA Dodgers. The Brewers started off Hot when Gabe Kapler hit a 2 run home run in the top of the 1st inning. The Dodger's scored a run in the bottom of the 1st. The Brewers got that run back in the bottom of the 2nd to get the lead back to 2. The Crew looked to be cruising with a 3-1 lead going to the bottom of the 4th, then the wheels fell off for Parra. Parra gave up 2 in the 4th and 1 in the 5th to end his night. Meanwhile Billingsley settled in and did not allow the Brewers to score again. Dodger slugger Russell Martin added a home run off of Carlos Villanueva in the 8th inning, and the Brewers were never able to recover. The Dodgers won game 1 of the series 5-3. Manny Parra fell to 9-6 on the season and the Cubs and Cardinals each gained a game on the Brewers.

Most Valuable Brewer: Gabe Kapler. Gabe hit his 7th home run of the year, and went 2-4. Gabe has been filling in for the injured Ryan Braun very well this week. Hopefully this consistent time hitting will help to be an even better pinch hitter for the Crew down the stretch.

Brewers vs Padres Game 3, August 14th

Thursday afternoon the Brewers went for the sweep of the San Diego Padres. Ben Sheets took the mound for the Brewers and he took on the reigning NL Cy Young award winner Jake Peavy. To say it was a pitcher's duel early would be an understatement. Throughout the first 6 innings of play there was no score and only 3 hits between the 2 teams. The 7th inning was a different story. Mike Cameron singled in Bill Hall for a 1-0 lead, but that lead would be short lived. Ben Sheets faltered in the bottom of the 7th inning and would give up 3 runs. Despite a solo home run by Mike Cameron in the top of the 9th, the Brewers would fall to the Padres, and their win streak would be snapped at 8 games. Ryan Braun continued to be out of the line up today, but feels optimistic about returning to the starting lineup as the Brewers travel to LA for a weekend with the Dodgers. Let's start a new winning streak.

Most Valuable Brewer: Mike Cameron. Cameron went 2-4 with the Brewers only 2 RBI's and he hit is 20th home run of the year. Cameron also saved the Brewers a run when he went up and robbed a home run in center field.

Brewers vs Padres Game 2, August 13th

The B-52 Bomber, CC Sabathia took the hill for the Brewers on Wednesday to try and stretch the Brewers win streak to 8. CC pitched very well early, but the Padres seemed to be able to put a bat on the ball no matter what he threw. Prince continues to see the ball well, as we all saw a ball leave his bat and get out of the park in a hurry in the 2nd inning. The Brewers added 2 more runs in the second to take a 3-0 lead. Sabathia continued to pitch well, but gave up a run in the bottom of the 4th to make it a 3-1 game. The Crew got those runs back when Corey Hart hit a bases loaded triple, he would then score on a Craig Counsell sacrifice fly. That was more than enough runs for CC Sabathia. Sabathia found himself in a no outs bases loaded jam, but worked out of it without giving up a run. CC would go 7 strong innings giving up only the 1 run and striking out 8 batters. Riske and Mota each pitched a hittless inning, and the Crew came away with a 7-1 win. The Brewers stretch their winning streak to 8 games and send Sheets to the mound on Thursday to go for 9 in a row and the series sweep.

Most Valuable Brewer: Corey Hart, he went 3-5 with 3 RBI's and a run scored. Corey's average is starting to climb once again, he is now hitting .289. i would love to see that up around .305 by the time September comes around.

Brewers vs Padres Game 1, August 12th

The Brewers traveled to Petco Park for a series with the San Diego Padres. Historically the Crew has really struggled on the West Coast and have been unable to produce a lot of runs. Tuesday night Jeff Suppan took on Cha Seung Baek. Suppan pitched very well early on, and Baek was perfect through 2 innings. Mike Cameron hit a solo home run in his old stomping grounds, in the 3rd inning. Cameron now has 19 home runs on the year, if only he had not missed the first 25 games of the year he would be over 20 already. Prince Fielder added a mammoth blast in the top of the 4th with runners on the corners. When Prince hit it he gave a look into the Brewers dug out, almost as if to see this is too easy, then trotted around the bases. Meanwhile Suppan was pitching very strong. Soup had made only 2 mistakes, unfortunately both of those mistakes were hit out of the ball park. In 8 strong innings of work Suppan gave up only 2 runs on 4 hits. Salomon Torres finally was able to come on for a save opportunity in the 9th and was perfect recording his 23rd save of the year.

Most Valuable Brewer: Mike Cameron, I mentioned that Petco Park was his old stomping grounds. Not only did he hit a home run, but his familiarity with the park really helped his play in center field.

Nationals vs Brewers Game 4, August 11th

Monday afternoon, the Brewers went for the 4 game sweep of the Washionals. Dave Bush was the starting pitcher for the Crew, as he looked to extend the streak of solid starts from our starting rotation. Bush gave up a run in the top of the first, but Rickie Weeks got that run back n a hurry with a led of home run. This was Rickie's 10th home run of the season, and Corey Hart added his 18th in the 4th. Dave Bush settled in after giving up the first inning run, and would not give up any more. Bush pitched 6 1/3 innings giving up 5 hits and one earned run. The Brewers bullpen came in and shut the door as the Brewers cruised to a 7-1 victory and completed the 4 game sweep of the Washionals.

Most Valuable Brewer: Corey Hart, going 2-4 with 2 RBI's, a run, a stolen base, and his 18th home run.

Nationals vs Brewers Game 3, August 10th

After 2 consecutive complete game shut outs, Manny Parra was trying to stretch it to 3. Manny Parra's bid at the complete game shut out was ended in the 6th inning when Lastings Milledge singled in a run. Manny went 7 innings only giving up 1 run and striking out 9. We could not ask anymore from him. Unfortunately, John Lannan for the Washionals was shutting us down the best he could. Lannan did not give up any earned runs in his 6 innings of work, but when he left the game, it was far from over. Eric Gagne gave up 3 runs in the top of the 8th, behind 2 homers by the Washionals. The Brewers had their chance to get the runs back in the bottom of the inning with bases loaded for back up catcher Mike Rivera. Rivera laced a double down the left field line and the bases were now empty with the score tied at 4. The Brewers and Nationals would each squander opportunities to score in the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th innings. Mota worked his way through the 13th inning, as every Brewer fan held their breath, and Gabe Kapler led off the bottom of the inning. Gabe was fulling in for Ryan Braun, who left Saturday's game with spasms in his lower back, and had been struggling at the plate, going 0-6 so far. Gabe decided to make it 1-7 has he crushed a ball that landed just fair down the left field line, and gave the Crew a 5-4 victory.

Most Valuable Brewer: Mike Rivera, he went 2-3 with 3 RBI's, a stolen base and showed patience at the plate walking 3 times. Not too shabby for your back up catcher. Mr. Rivera please enjoy a nice frosty beverage, you have earned it.

Nationals vs Brewers Game 2, August 9th

Saturday's game had the same look and feel that Friday's game did. Brewers Co-Ace Ben Sheets took the mound against Tim Redding of the Washionals (yes I know i spelled it wrong, that is what i like to call them). Ben was on his A game, and was trying to match CC Sabathia's outing the night before. The Brewers were providing some support at the plate. Ray Durham hit his first home run in a Brewers uniform. JJ Hardy followed with his 17th and Corey Hart added his 17th in the 5th inning. Ben Sheets was getting the job done at the plate when he singled in Jason Kendall for his 5th RBI of the year. Yes, Ben Sheets has 5 RBI's already, what a clutch hitter. Ben would not need much in the form of run support because he was doing his best CC Sabathia impression as Benny went the distance allowing no runs. Ben earned the complete game shut out, striking out 6 batters and only giving up 5 hits. To top it all off, the Cubs lost to the Cardinals, what a good day.

Most Valuable Brewer: Ben Sheets for his work on the mound and his wonderful work at the plate. I embellished a little on the hitting skills, but we all know Benny would want it that way. It feels good to give this award to a starting pitcher 2 days in a row, let's hope we can make a habit of this.

Nationals vs Brewers Game 1, August 8th

Friday, the Crew sent Co-Ace CC Sabathia to the mound, as the Brewers hoped to stretch their winning streak to 3 games. CC was being CC. The big man was mowing down Nationals hitters left and right. Prince Fielder gave Sabathia some run support with an RBI single in the first, and that would be all Sabathia would need. Mike Cameron would hit his 18th home run of the year in the 2nd inning, and JJ Hardy added his 16th home run in the 7th inning. Meanwhile Sabathia was working on what would be his 4th complete game in a Milwaukee Brewers uniform. CC would complete the shut out with only giving up 5 hits and striking out 9 batters in a 5-0 Brewer victory. Hopefully our other ace can keep the run going Saturday night when Ben Sheets takes on Tim Redding of the Nationals.

Most Valuable Brewer: Is there even a question? CC Sabathia, the big man pitched his 4th complete game in 6 starts as a Brewer and improves his record to 6-0 as a Brewer and lowered his ERA to 1.58.

Brewers vs Reds Game 3, August 6th

Jeff Suppan took the hill for the Crew as the tried to win the series against the Reds and go 4-2 on their road trip. Suppan was a little shaky in the beginning, giving up 3 runs in the first 3 innings. Jeff buckled it down from there and ending up pitching 7 innings and giving up only 3 runs. The Brewers offense kept going strong. Believe it or not the Brewers offense was led by Rickie Weeks. Rickie went 4-5 scored a run and had 2 RBI's. Mike Cameron went 3-4 scoring 2 runs and had 1 RBI. Jason Kendall also chipped in with 2 RBI's. The Brewers got a lot of help from players that were struggling. It is nice to the Brewers start to play to some of their potential.

Most Valuable Brewer: No doubt about this one, Rickie Weeks. This is the first time Rickie received this award, so enjoy it kid. After much criticism this year he does deserve to win some kind of positive award, hopefully we will have a few more coming.

Brewers vs Reds Game 2, August 5th

Is it possible that a dugout scuffle could wake up the Brewers and motivate them even more? Unlikely, but it did appear that way Tuesday night. The day after Prince Fielder was seen pushing Manny Parra in the dugout and players were physically restraining Prince, the Brewers bats woke up. The Brewers had to face the young Reds ace Edison Volquez. The Brewers had their bats going early when Cory Hart hit a 2-RBI triple in the first inning. Brewers starter David Bush gave up a run in the bottom of the first, but was dialed in from there on. The Brewers continued to put up 5 total runs on Volquez in 5 innings. In the 7th inning with Ryan Braun on first, Prince Fielder came to the plate to face Nick Masset. After 2 high and inside pitches, that visibly upset Fielder, the next pitch was crushed over the center field wall. JJ Hardy broke out of his slump at the plate too, going 2-5. Meanwhile Dave Bush was looking like he was back on track. Bush went 7 innings, only giving up the 1 run and striking out 7. As the Brewers cruised to a 8-1 victory.

Most Valuable Brewer: Dave Bush. Bush got the start on the road because Yost finally got rid of the platoon of the starting pitchers. Bush pitched very well against a good pitting Reds lineup.

No More Platoon

Brewers manager Ned Yost has done away with the starting pitcher platoon. Yost has named Dave Bush the 5th starter, as he makes the start on the road for the Crew tonight. I am very glad this took place. Starting pitchers need to remain in a rhythm. It was obvious that Bush was taken out of that rhythm when Yost experimented with the starting pitching platoon last month. Hopefully now Yost is done with his little experiments because we are in a pennant race, and the city of Milwaukee is craving some action in October.

Brewers vs Reds Game 1, August 4th

Anybody have any rituals to get rid of long slumps? If so please let myself, the Milwaukee Brewers and JJ Hardy know. I need to get out this rut and find positive things to say about the Crew. The Brewers just flat out need to win, and JJ Hardy needs to remember how to hit after going 0 for his last 26 at bats. The Brewers went into Cincinnati on Monday, and were shut down by Bronson Arroyo. Manny Parra was looking good until the 5th inning came long. Manny gave up a bases loaded double to Reds pitcher Arroyo and ended up giving up 4 runs in the inning. Parra followed by giving up 2 more in the 6th on a Jay Bruce home run. The Brewers had little offense, a homerun by Mike Cameron, and one by Ryan Braun. The Brewers fell to the Reds 6-3. The big story of the game was an altercation that toko place in the Brewers dugout. Manny Parra and Prince Fielder were seen exchanging words, then Prince forcefully pushed Parra to the bench, then again pushed Parra in the face. 4 Brewers quickly rushed to Fielder and pushed up against the fence that separates the field from the dugout. Ryan Braun was one of those players holding Fielder down, and JJ Hardy could be seen yelling at Prince. Brewers skipper, Ned Yost said the incident is no big deal. I agree with Yost. I like to see emotion from our players. However, I do think Prince should be held accountable for going after a teammate. If it is a fine that takes place behind closed doors and we don't know about it then fine. We just cannot make a habit of this type of behavior. Let's see if we can salvage this road trip and get a win tonight.

Most Valuable Brewer: Ryan Braun! Ryan became the second player in major league history to hit 30 home runs in each of his first 2 seasons. The other? Albert Pujols, pretty good company.

Brewers vs Braves Game 3, August 3rd

Once again the Brewers faced Jorge Campillo, and once again it did not end well for the Crew. Campillo was dominate has he pitched 7 innings of shut out ball. The Brewers sent Ben Sheets to the mind with hopes of sweeping the Braves and extended this win streak to 3. Sheets however gave up 2 runs in the first, and one more in the 5th. Ben would only pitch 6 innings giving up 3 runs (2 earned) and only striking out 4. The Brewers continued to struggle offensively as they managed to get 7 hits, but failed to plate any baserunners. The Brewers were shut out by the Braves 5-0.

Most Valuable Brewer: This was a hard game to find someone positive to praise, but Craig Counsell and Gabe Kapler went 2-4. Both players were given the chance to start and get some regular at bats. Both players made the best of their time, even though neither was able to drive in a run.

Brewers vs Braves Game 2, August 2nd

Fresh off of their win Friday night the Brewers sent CC Sabathia to the mound on Saturday. CC gave up a run in the first, but he was spot on from there. As the game went on and on CC appeared to only be getting stronger. CC was making a bid at his 4th complete game as a Milwaukee Brewer. Meanwhile, Prince Fielder, who had homered in each of the last 3 games, extended his homer streak to 4. Prince went yard not once, but twice. Once in the 7th, a solo shot, then again in the 8th a 2-run shot. Prince all of a sudden has 25 home runs on the season, and is coming into his own at the plate. CC was unable to go the distance in this one as he threw 109 pitches in 8 1/3rd innings and struck out 9. CC gave up 2 runs, but that was all he needed. Salomon Torres came on in relief of Sabathia to record his 21st save of the season.

Most Valuable Brewer: Prince Fielder, CC very easily could have been the MVB, but Prince has been the only offense the Brewers have had in the past 4 days. Prince is started to be the leader we need on the field and carry this team on his back. Let's give Prince some help Boys!!!

Brewers vs Braves Game 1, August 1st

The Brewers had 4 games of pent up frustration building after their embarrassing sweep at the hands of the Cubs. The Brewers needed to find a way to get back on the winning track. The solution, go down to Atlanta and take on the Braves. Jeff Suppan made his 3rd start since returning from the DL, and he had one of his best starts of the season. Suppan went 7 strong scoreless innings and giving up only 5 hits and walking 3 batters. Suppan also received the run support that he needed. The Brewers put up 6 runs in the first 3 innings behind a solo home run from Prince Fielder and a 2-run homer off the bat of Mike Cameron. The Brewers added 3 more runs in the 8th inning as they cruised to 9-0 victory. Let's hope the Brewers can keep this run going, and get out of Atlanta with a sweep.

Most Valuable Brewer: Prince Fielder, he has socked a home run in each of the last 3 games. Prince now has 23 on the year. Let's hope the big fella can stay hot and inspire some of the other Brewers to do the same.

Cubs vs Brewers Game 4, July 31st

There really is not a whole lot to say. I really hope that the Brewers use this series as a wake up call and start to put things together. The Brewers were embarrassed by the Cubs 11-4 on Thursday afternoon. The Brewers got swept out of their home stadium, while the eyes of the nation were on them. This series felt a lot like a series in May when the Brewers visited the Boston Red Sox. The Crew has had problems everywhere in this series. Their hitting disappeared, the starting pitching was not up to par, their defense was atrocious, and they played with no confidence. Hopefully the Brewers get right the ship, and get back to winning on Friday night in Atlanta.

Thursdays Most Valuable Brewer: The Cubs bus driver for taking them out of Milwaukee