In the first two games of this series, the Brewers jumped all over the Dodgers’ starting pitcher in the opening inning. Milwaukee scored four runs in the first inning of Friday’s series-opening win, while all three of their runs in yesterday’s 11-3 loss came in the first.
That’s especially important because Los Angeles will turn to right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto for today’s series finale. Yamamoto has been excellent again this year, posting a 3.32 ERA, 0.966 WHIP, and 0.7 WAR. However, he’s allowed one-third of his earned runs in the opening frame this season and has yet to record a scoreless first inning in two career starts (one in the postseason) against Milwaukee. If the Brewers can apply pressure out of the gate once again, they’ll put themselves in a good position to win today.
Opposite Yamamoto is Brandon Sproat (5.75 ERA, 1.50 WHIP), who has flashed electric stuff throughout his rookie season. Consistency, however, has been harder to come by; Sproat has allowed at least three runs in six of his nine appearances and has only made it through five innings three times.
The top of today’s order is the same as the series opener, with Jackson Chourio, Brice Turang, and William Contreras occupying the first three spots. With Christian Yelich sitting out, Pat Murphy was able to fit both Jake Bauers and Andrew Vaughn into the lineup. Bauers will serve as the designated hitter and bat cleanup, while Vaughn hits fifth and starts at first base.
Garrett Mitchell, who missed the last two games due to back tightness, is hitting sixth and playing center field. Rounding out the lineup are Sal Frelick, Joey Ortiz, and David Hamilton.
Also worth mentioning: last night’s starting pitcher, Robert Gasser, was optioned to Triple-A Nashville this morning. Replacing him on the active roster is righty Carlos Rodríguez, who’s allowed one run while striking out five in four innings with the Brewers this year. If Sproat exits early, Rodríguez could be called upon to cover a couple of innings.
Today’s game will be broadcast on Brewers.TV, WTMJ 620, and the Brewers Radio Network. First pitch is set for 1:10 p.m.