Milwaukee Brewers Unleash Offensive Onslaught, Dominate Cubs in Game 1 Behind Chourio and Peralta
MILWAUKEE — The Milwaukee Brewers sent a powerful message to start their postseason run, combining a relentless offensive attack with a dominant pitching performance to trounce the Chicago Cubs 9-3 in Game 1 of the NL Division Series on Saturday.
Rookie Jackson Chourio sparked a historic six-run first inning with a two-run single, while starter Freddy Peralta delivered a steady performance on the mound, tying a franchise playoff record with nine strikeouts.
The Brewers’ lineup showcased the same scrappy, high-contact approach that made them one of baseball’s best teams during the regular season. Despite not hitting a home run, Milwaukee piled up 13 hits, with Blake Perkins, William Contreras, and Brice Turang all contributing to a relentless effort that kept the line moving.
“It’s fun to be a part of,” said Perkins, who had two hits. “I think we all build off of each other.”
The only concern for Milwaukee was an early exit by Chourio, who left the game in the second inning with right hamstring tightness. The rookie had already made history, becoming the first player with three hits in the first two innings of a playoff game. He underwent an MRI after the game, with the team awaiting results.
Staked to a massive early lead, Peralta was in control for most of the afternoon, permitting two runs over 5 2/3 innings of work.
The game also featured a charged atmosphere at American Family Field, where the home crowd loudly booed former Brewers manager Craig Counsell, who now leads the Cubs. Counsell’s pitching decision to start Matthew Boyd on short rest backfired dramatically, as the left-hander was chased before the first inning ended.
The Cubs’ offense came solely from solo home runs by Michael Busch, Ian Happ, and Nico Hoerner.
With the victory, the Brewers take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five series. Game 2 is set for Monday night in Milwaukee.
