CINCINNATI (AP) — In an exciting matchup on Friday night, Cooper Pratt showcased his offensive prowess by driving in a season-high four runs, helping the Milwaukee Brewers secure a 10-7 victory over the Cincinnati Reds. Pratt's contributions included a crucial bases-loaded triple and a groundout, which were pivotal in the Brewers' strong offensive display.
The game turned decisively in the fifth inning when the Brewers scored five runs, capitalizing on a costly error by Reds pitcher Rhett Lowder. Lowder, who fell to a 6-9 record with this outing, started the inning by allowing a single to Jackson Chourio and walking Christian Yelich. A potential double-play ball off the bat of William Contreras was mishandled by shortstop Elly De La Cruz, loading the bases. Pratt then delivered a clutch triple that cleared the bases and extended the Brewers' lead. He later scored on a wild pitch, further adding to the Brewers' momentum.
Despite the Brewers' offensive surge, the Reds initially held a 6-4 lead in the third inning, thanks in part to a three-run home run from Eugenio Suarez. This home run marked Suarez’s 21st of the season and tied him with the legendary Ken Griffey Jr. for ninth place on the franchise's all-time home run list, with 210 total. Suarez, who recently celebrated becoming a U.S. citizen, entered the game to the patriotic tune of Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the U.S.A.”
On the mound, Shane Drohan struggled for the Brewers, pitching four innings and allowing six runs on five hits, including a home run from Matt McLain, who hit his 14th of the season. However, the Brewers' bullpen stepped up, with Chad Patrick earning the win by tossing two scoreless innings. Trevor Megill then secured his 26th save of the season, successfully converting 28 save opportunities.
With this victory, the Brewers improved their record to 88 wins for the season. They are now in pursuit of a franchise record for wins, needing just 10 victories in their remaining 20 games to achieve this milestone. The team's performance has been bolstered by key players stepping up in crucial moments, as seen in Pratt's standout game.
Looking ahead, the Brewers are set to continue their series against the Reds with right-hander Dustin May (6-9, 4.69 ERA) scheduled to face off against left-hander Andrew Abbott (6-10, 4.49) on Saturday. As the season approaches its climax, every game becomes increasingly important for both teams as they vie for playoff positioning.
Leave a Comment