MILWAUKEE (AP) - In a commanding performance on Tuesday night, the Milwaukee Brewers defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates with an impressive score of 14-0. This victory marked the Brewers' 11th consecutive win, showcasing their dominance in the league. The team now boasts a record of 27-5 over their last 32 games, solidifying their status as a powerhouse in Major League Baseball.
Key players for the Brewers included Sal Frelick and Brice Turang, both of whom hit home runs off Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes. Frelick kicked off the scoring with a leadoff homer in the first inning, marking his ninth of the season. Turang followed suit with a solo shot in the fourth inning, his 12th homer, giving Milwaukee a 3-0 lead.
Other notable contributions came from Christian Yelich, who belted his 23rd home run—a two-run drive off Yohan Ramírez in the fifth inning, extending the lead to 6-0. Andrew Vaughn capped off a six-run sixth inning with a powerful three-run shot, further solidifying the Brewers’ lead. Caleb Durbin added to the score with a two-run homer in the eighth inning, hitting against Pirates infielder Jared Triolo.
On the mound, Freddy Peralta delivered an outstanding performance, pitching six innings of three-hit ball. He improved his record to 14-5 with this win, marking his second consecutive victory. Peralta’s efforts were crucial in maintaining the Brewers’ shutout against the Pirates.
In contrast, Skenes struggled on the mound, allowing four runs and six hits over four innings. This loss was particularly notable as it was Skenes' first defeat since July 11, during which he had previously allowed only four runs in his last four starts. He managed to strike out four batters but also issued two walks, contributing to the Pirates' defeat.
The victory not only bolstered the Brewers’ confidence but also increased their lead in the NL Central to 7 1/2 games, the largest margin in Major League Baseball. This win was further amplified by the Chicago Cubs' loss in Toronto, solidifying Milwaukee's position at the top of their division.
The Pirates struggled offensively, failing to capitalize on opportunities. Despite having runners on first and second in the fourth inning, Andrew McCutchen grounded into an inning-ending double play, squandering a chance to get on the scoreboard.
The Brewers have been on a power surge, leading the league with a total of 23 home runs in August, six of which have come from Turang, doubling his season total. As the series continues, right-hander Brandon Woodruff (4-0, 2.29 ERA) is set to start for the Brewers in the finale on Wednesday. The Pirates will counter with right-hander Mitch Keller (5-10, 3.86 ERA), looking to turn the tide in this matchup.
With their current form, the Milwaukee Brewers are poised to continue their winning streak and further solidify their position as one of the elite teams in Major League Baseball.
