Philadelphia Phillies Weekend Preview: Milwaukee Brewers
By Mike Lacy
A preview of the Philadelphia Phillies vs. Milwaukee Brewers series from the perspective of a biased Phillies fan
In a former life, I used to write series previews for the Phillies that took a decidedly optimistic spin on the fortunes of the “Fightin’ Phils.” I would preview each series, and explain why the Philadelphia Phillies were a lock to win. Based on their post-2011 record, it’s safe to say that I was often wrong.
Heading into this weekend, I figured I would look ahead to the Phillies’ upcoming opponent, and give some reason for Phillies fans to hope that victories are imminent.
Milwaukee Brewers
Record: 7-9 (5th in National League Central)
What’s the Deal with the Brewers?
Coming off a 94 loss season, the Brewers weren’t expected to be very good this season. And early in the season, they haven’t been. Their biggest acquisitions were “three true outcomes” slugger Chris Carter and mediocre starting pitcher Chase Anderson.
The Last Time They Met
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The Brewers only avoided finishing in last place in the National League Central in 2015 because the Reds were even worse. It also helped that they got to play the Philadelphia Phillies seven times. The Brewers were no powerhouse, but they certainly played like one against the Philadelphia Phillies, finishing with a 7-0 record in their 2015 matchups. In the most recent game, Ryan Braun hit a grand slam powering the Brewers to a 6-1 win.
Brewers Player Who Isn’t Horrible
Noted PED user Braun continues to excel. The former MVP hit 25 home runs in 2015, and is off to a strong start this year, with a .981 OPS in the early going.
Brewers Player Who Is Horrible
Only 24 years of age, center fielder Ramon Flores might have a bright future ahead of him But’s he’s currently batting .167 with no extra-base hits. So good news, Phillies fans: Your team isn’t the only one with outfielders who can’t hit at all!
Starting Pitching Preview
Davies’ first full season in the majors did not get off to a good start. In his 2016 début, Davies got roughed up for six runs in 2.1 innings.
Chase Anderson
Anderson is a two-year veteran who was traded from the Diamondbacks in the offseason. After not allowing an earned run in his first two starts, Anderson’s last outing was a bit shaky, surrendering five runs in five innings against the Twins.
Peralta is off to a poor start this season. He’s 0-3 and hasn’t lasted more than five innings in any of his four starts. His biggest problem is the high number of walks he’s allowed (12 in 18.1 innings)
Reason For Optimism
The Brewers aren’t a good team and their pitching staff is vulnerable. If the Philadelphia Phillies are going to score runs this season – and there’s no guarantee they will – this would be one of their best chances to put up some numbers.
Also, the Brewers aren’t good enough to sustain this kind of dominance over any team. It feels like the Phillies are due for some wins.
Reason for Pessimism
Braun has hit well against most teams, but he seems to save his best games for the Phillies. In 55 games, he has 18 home runs and a 1.112 OPS. He’s a big reason the Brewers have dominated the Philadelphia Phillies in recent years.
Next: Phillies Aquire Alfredo Marte
Prediction
The Philadelphia Phillies hitters are likely looking at the Brewers pitching staff and thinking this is a good opportunity to turn things around. The problem is, the Brewers pitchers are probably thinking the same thing.
Since the Phillies are due for some wins, I’ll say they take two out of three.