Milwaukee comes into tonight’s game on a high note after opening their series against the Angels with a 6-2 win. With another victory tonight, the Brewers would secure the series and guarantee themselves at least a .500 road trip through California.
On the mound for Milwaukee is left-hander Robert Gasser, who’s been excellent over the last two months outside of a couple of blow-up outings. Gasser has allowed two runs or fewer in five of his last eight starts, though he’s also been tagged for six or more runs twice during that span.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles scratched scheduled starter José Soriano amid deadline-fueled trade speculation. Taking his place is veteran left-hander and longtime Brewer Brent Suter, who owns a 4.26 ERA across 40 appearances (two starts) in his first season with the Angels.
As for tonight’s lineup, there’s a bit of a shakeup at the top. Manager Pat Murphy has moved Jackson Chourio into the leadoff spot after a rough night at the plate yesterday that included three strikeouts and a couple of particularly poor swing decisions. The hope is that batting first will simplify Chourio’s approach, allowing him to focus on putting together quality at-bats instead of trying to do too much.
With Chourio leading off, Brice Turang slides down to the No. 2 spot, followed by William Contreras and Christian Yelich. Right-handed bat Andrew Vaughn will start at first base and hit fifth against the left-handed Suter. Rounding out the lineup are Jake Bauers, Garrett Mitchell, Cooper Pratt, and Joey Ortiz, who’s back at third base tonight.
Finally, some roster news from earlier today: Brandon Lockridge and Garrett Stallings are both expected to rejoin the Brewers tonight after the trade of Blake Perkins and Craig Yoho earlier in the day. Lockridge hit .294 in 28 games earlier this season before suffering a right knee injury while attempting a sliding catch in foul territory. After spending nearly three months on the injured list, he’s back to provide valuable outfield depth behind Jackson Chourio, Garrett Mitchell, Luis Lara, Sal Frelick, and Jake Bauers.
Tonight’s game will be broadcast on Brewers.TV, WTMJ 620, and the Brewers Radio Network. First pitch is set for 8:38 p.m.
