Brewers vs Cubs predictions
If you’re looking at the Milwaukee Brewers lineup, you have to keep your eye on Christian Yelich—he’s been swinging a hot bat this season and there’s no reason to think that changes at Wrigley. Yelich has a knack for reaching base, and I’m betting he’ll pick up a hit or two, maybe even swipe a bag if he gets the chance. Sal Frelick has quietly put together some solid at-bats all year, so expect him to be a tough out, racking up singles and getting on base for the big bats behind him. Jackson Chourio, with his aggressive approach, is always a threat to notch a couple hits or push across a run. Meanwhile, with Chad Patrick taking the mound, look for about five or so innings of gritty work—he won’t overpower hitters but he can keep the Brewers in the game if he stays ahead in the count.
Turning to the Chicago Cubs, this lineup has been dangerous all season, and it all starts with Pete Crow-Armstrong and his serious power surge lately. He’s one of those young players who you just know keeps pitchers on their toes—don’t be surprised if he sends one deep into the ivy at some point in the series. Nico Hoerner is another guy to watch for, with his high-contact approach; he’s great at setting the table and should pick up a couple hits to keep the offense rolling. Seiya Suzuki’s bat has been clutch, and it’s fair to expect him to drive in some key runs, maybe taking advantage of scoring opportunities created by the top of the order. On the pitching side, Ben Brown is slated to start, and I see him racking up the strikeouts, mixing up his pitches, and keeping the Brewers’ offense guessing for five solid innings.
When you size up both squads, the Cubs just look a touch deeper and more explosive, especially with how well they play at home and their ability to manufacture runs from anywhere in the order. The Brewers certainly have the speed and a few bats that can swing the game, but if Chicago’s top hitters get rolling, things could tilt pretty quickly in favor of the Cubs. With Ben Brown looking sharp and the home crowd behind them at Wrigley, my money’s on Chicago pulling out the win in this opener and adding another notch to their impressive home record. What do you think—can the Brewers play spoiler, or will the North Siders just keep rolling?
