Freddy Peralta delivered an outstanding performance on Monday afternoon, allowing only one hit over six shutout innings to lead the Milwaukee Brewers to a 7-0 victory against the Chicago Cubs in the first game of a doubleheader and the start of a four-game series. This dominant outing improved Peralta’s record to 15-5 and marked his third consecutive win, as he struck out six batters and walked three.
Key Offensive Contributions Fuel Milwaukee’s Lead
The Brewers’ offense was highlighted by solo home runs from Brice Turang and Caleb Durbin. Turang’s home run extended his hot streak with his 13th homer of the season and seventh in his last 14 games, giving Milwaukee a 1-0 lead in the third inning. Durbin went deep in the bottom of the fifth inning, his 419-foot shot off Taylor Rogers pushing the lead to 2-0. Joey Ortiz also played a key role, recording two hits, an RBI, and scoring a run, while Sal Frelick contributed with two hits and two runs scored.
Cubs’ Struggles and Pitching Setbacks
Cade Horton, the Cubs’ starting pitcher, was aiming to win his fifth straight start after an impressive stretch allowing just one run over more than 28 innings. However, a blister on his pitching hand forced him out after 2 2/3 innings. He gave up one run and four hits, struck out three, and walked one before leaving the game. Relief pitcher Drew Pomeranz took over and helped extinguish a potential scoring threat, while later relievers Luke Little and Gavin Hollowell struggled with control, issuing multiple walks and allowing runs that widened Milwaukee’s advantage.
Milwaukee Maintains Control and Extends Lead
After Horton exited, the Brewers continued to press their advantage. Luke Little’s wild pitching in the sixth inning allowed Ortiz to score an unearned run, making it 3-0. Milwaukee further extended their lead in the eighth inning with back-to-back RBI singles by Ortiz and Turang. Durbin also drove in a run on a fielder’s choice, followed by another run scoring on a wild pitch, bringing the final score to 7-0.
Implications for the Series Moving Forward
This commanding shutout by Freddy Peralta and the Brewers sets a strong tone for the rest of the series against the Cubs. Ending the contest with a significant margin, Milwaukee showcased both reliable pitching and timely hitting, putting pressure on Chicago to respond in the upcoming games. The Cubs, who recently saw their franchise-record 14-game winning streak snapped by the Cincinnati Reds, will need to regroup quickly to avoid further setbacks.
“Turang gave the Brewers a 1-0 lead in the third inning with his 13th home run of the season and seventh in the past 14 games.” —Field Level Media