Minnesota Twins vs Milwaukee Brewers Picks and Predictions July 21st 2024

‘Relentless’ Brewers Bid for Abbreviated Series Sweep of Twins

The Milwaukee Brewers, inspired by manager Pat Murphy’s unique philosophy, are looking to lock in a series sweep against the Minnesota Twins. After a thrilling 8-4 victory in 12 innings on Saturday, the Brewers are set to bring their relentless style to the finale of this two-game set on Sunday.

Brewers’ Relentless Approach

Murphy’s Woodpecker Philosophy

Manager Pat Murphy’s analogy of hitters being “woodpeckers” perfectly captures the Brewers’ strategy—persistent and relentless at-bats. This approach was on full display in their series-opening win, where they chipped away at the Twins’ pitching, leading to a decisive victory in extra innings.

“It’s relentless,” Murphy said. “It’s like that annoying, pesky, long at-bat. Chip away. Swing at the pitch you want to swing at. (Don’t) lose control of the at-bat.”

Saturday’s Game Recap

Extra-Inning Thriller

The game was tied 1-1 after nine innings, with both teams scoring two runs in the 11th. The Brewers finally broke through with a five-run 12th inning to clinch the win. Key performances included:

• Jackson Chourio: Went 3-for-5 with two RBIs.
• Brice Turang: Added three RBIs, bringing his season total to 41.

“This was a relentless victory if there ever was one,” Murphy said. “On the road. Great crowd, great atmosphere, and a really good team across the way.”

Twins’ Response and Strategy

Manager’s Perspective

Twins manager Rocco Baldelli stressed the need for a more complete effort and better execution, especially after both teams had a five-day break due to the All-Star break.

“Sometimes the offense can start slow (after the All-Star break),” Baldelli said. “Your timing is not quite there. You haven’t seen a pitch in a long time… We did not execute and play good fundamentally late in the game.”

Pitching Matchup

Milwaukee Brewers

Aaron Civale (2-7, 4.94 ERA):

• Civale is seeking his first win since April 9.
• Last Start: Took a hard-luck loss against the Pittsburgh Pirates, allowing one run on six hits over 6 1/3 innings, with two walks and six strikeouts.
• Career vs. Twins: 1-4 with a 4.19 ERA in 10 starts. In his last outing against Minnesota on June 18, he allowed four runs on seven hits in 3 2/3 innings.

Minnesota Twins

Joe Ryan (6-6, 3.53 ERA):

• Ryan has been a strikeout machine with 124 strikeouts in 114 2/3 innings before the All-Star break.
• Last Start: Suffered a loss against the San Francisco Giants, giving up five runs on six hits in 5 1/3 innings.
• Career vs. Brewers: This will be his second career start against Milwaukee. In his first start on July 13, 2022, he allowed one run on two hits over 5 1/3 innings, resulting in a no-decision.

Key Players to Watch

Milwaukee Brewers

Jackson Chourio:

• Chourio aims to continue his hot streak after a 3-for-5 performance with two RBIs in the series opener.

Brice Turang:

• Turang, with 41 RBIs this season, looks to keep his offensive contributions rolling.

Minnesota Twins

Xander Bogaerts and David Peralta:

• Both have had limited but successful at-bats against Civale, posing potential threats.

Pablo Lopez:

• Although not pitching in this game, Lopez highlighted the depth and challenge of the Brewers’ lineup, underscoring their ability to create opportunities on the bases.

Game Implications

The Brewers’ relentless approach, characterized by patience and persistence at the plate, has been key to their recent success. As they aim for a series sweep against the Twins, maintaining this strategy will be crucial. The pitching matchup between Aaron Civale and Joe Ryan promises an intriguing battle, with both pitchers looking to overcome recent challenges. With the series on the line, fans can expect a competitive and intense finale.

Conclusion

Sunday’s game is a big deal for both teams. The Brewers, guided by their relentless approach, aim to secure a series sweep and continue their strong performance. Meanwhile, the Twins are looking to rebound and finish strong. With so much at stake, fans can expect a tightly contested and exciting game with significant implications for both teams.