Series Preview Milwaukee Brewers (1-5) Vs. Chicago Cubs (2-4)

Probable Starters

Monday April 8th 1:20pm

Game 1

Marco Estrada (0-0 7.20 ERA) Vs. Edwin Jackson (0-13.60 ERA)

Tuesday April 9th 7:05pm

Game 2

Wily Peralta (0-1 6.75 ERA) Vs. Travis Wood (1-0 0.00 ERA)

Wednesday April 10th 7:05pm

Game 3

Kyle Lohse (0-0 1.50 ERA) Vs. Scott Feldman (0-1 7.71 ERA)

The Brewers head into Chicago for their first road series of the year, and they really need a win. After winning the first game of the season, the Crew is 0-5 and not only are the bullpen woes from last year back but now injuries are plaguing the lineup.

On the other side of the matchup, the Cubs had a strong opening series, but were just swept in Atlanta by a superior Braves team. As we all know, their expectations for the season aren’t very good to begin with and they were probably lucky to get 2 wins from division rival Pittsburgh.

The Cubs are coming into the picture at the perfect time for Milwaukee. Not only does Wrigley field give plus power to anyone with a little bit of pop, but the Cubs hitters aren’t intimidating. Without Corey Hart and Aramis Ramirez for the next few weeks the Brewers need to scrap together every win they can get.

The first game should be fun to watch if Marco Estrada pitches better than he did in his first game. Both Estrada and Edwin Jackson can strike out batters at a decent rate and keep runners off base. It could shape up to be an unexpected pitching duel with two sub-par offenses behind them.

Game 2 is a matchup that should go in Milwaukee’s favor but according to current stats won’t. Wily Peralta is a very good pitcher, but falling behind in the count his first start gave hitters the upper hand. If he is more aggressive he should rebound. Travis Wood pitched above his own ability. He’s done this before in his career and can either repeat or give up 10 earned runs.

The best matchup for the Brewers to win is without a doubt Kyle Lohse against Scott Feldman. Feldman is a poor pitcher to begin with and Lohse is coming off a strong first start with the Brewers. His career numbers aren’t great against Chicago at 4-4 and a 5.17 ERA in 16 starts, however in the last 2 years he is 3-0 with a 3.38 ERA again the Cubs.

Prediction? I hope the Brewers go 2-1 but with all the injuries I’m predicting 1-2. If Ryan Braun returns they will be better off, and more likely to win at least two games. They could sweep with Braun and if their pitchers perform up to expectations.

-Brad