Brewers Secure NL Central Title After Cubs Lose to A’s

The Milwaukee Brewers have clinched their second consecutive National League Central Division title, thanks to a surprising turn of events on Wednesday afternoon. Their victory came as the Oakland Athletics defeated the Chicago Cubs 5-3 at Wrigley Field, allowing the Brewers to secure their spot at the top of the division.

As the Brewers gathered in their home clubhouse at American Family Field, they watched the thrilling conclusion of the Cubs game, which ultimately determined their postseason fate. This marks the fourth time in the last seven seasons that the Brewers have claimed the title, following victories in 2018 and 2021.

Last year, Milwaukee learned of its division championship under equally unconventional circumstances. After suffering a loss to the St. Louis Cardinals, the Brewers were able to celebrate when the Cubs experienced a late collapse against the Atlanta Braves. This season’s clinching moment was no different, as the team is again reveling in the outcomes of other games.

“Regardless of getting in via another team’s loss or getting in via our win, it’s still an incredible accomplishment that we’ll celebrate and we’ve earned, regardless of how it happens,” said Brewers first baseman and designated hitter Rhys Hoskins after a recent loss to the Philadelphia Phillies.

The team is waiting to pop open the champagne and beer until later in the evening, as they still have an important matchup against the Phillies ahead. With the Brewers holding a record of 87-64 and the Phillies at 91-60, both teams are actively competing for favorable postseason positioning. Currently, Milwaukee ranks as the third seed, while Philadelphia holds the top spot. The Brewers aim to secure one of the top two seeds to earn a bye into the National League Division Series.

The stakes are high for both teams, as a victory for the Phillies, combined with a Braves loss to the Cincinnati Reds, would clinch the NL East title for Philadelphia.

On the mound for the Brewers is Freddy Peralta, who carries an 11-8 record with a 3.75 ERA. Opposing him will be the Phillies’ Aaron Nola, who boasts a 12-8 record and a 3.62 ERA. Nola has historically posed challenges for Milwaukee, holding a career record of 7-2 against the Brewers, along with a 2.76 ERA and a WHIP of 1.12 across 13 appearances against them.

This achievement marks the Brewers’ 10th postseason appearance in franchise history and their sixth in the last seven years. With their eyes set on the playoffs, the team is excited to build on their previous successes and make a significant playoff run.

As the Brewers continue their pursuit of greatness, they remain focused on what lies ahead while taking a moment to appreciate this milestone.

Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel