Milwaukee Brewers‘ manager Pat Murphy is driving on I-94 to Mitchell International Airport, his radio thumping with Bruce Springsteen’s ”Racing in the Streets.”
“Some guys just give up living,” Murphy sings along passionately, “and start dying little by little, piece by piece.”
He turns down the volume, clears his throat, and begins speaking, proving that he is far from giving up on life.
In fact, at 65, he feels invigorated and ready to embark on this new chapter.
Despite the challenges at hand—his closest friend in baseball heading to Chicago, a Cy Young pitcher traded to Baltimore, three starters sidelined for the season, a former MVP requiring season-ending back surgery, and an All-Star closer missing the first half of the season—Murphy has this team feeling like the legendary ‘27 Yankees.
Follow every MLB game: Latest MLB scores, stats, schedules and standings.
Playing in baseball’s smallest market with the 22nd-highest payroll, the Brewers sometimes feature a lineup boasting six rookies and possess a bullpen so nameless that they might need IDs just to enter visiting stadiums. Yet, they have astonishingly become baseball’s most remarkable success story.
And they are particularly the Chicago Cubs’ worst nightmare.
Despite encountering numerous setbacks (including using a franchise-record 17 starting pitchers), the Brewers are still
currently, they hold the top position in the NL Central, boasting the largest lead in baseball—a commanding 10 games ahead of the St. Louis Cardinals.
They are on the brink of securing their sixth postseason appearance and fourth division title in just seven years.
And undoubtedly, this season is the most rewarding.
“This is the most enjoyable experience I’ve had since acquiring the team,” says Brewers owner Mark Attanasio in an interview with USA TODAY Sports. “This team distinguishes itself. It’s evident in their style of play.”
The Brewers’ fanbase remains frustrated after manager Craig Counsell left the organization last season to join their arch-rival, the Cubs. Additionally, their former president, David Stearns, took a lucrative position as the president of baseball operations for the Mets in New York. The Brewers also traded Corbin Burnes to the Baltimore Orioles when it became apparent he wouldn’t remain as a free agent.
“Nobody ever believes in us from the outside,” states veteran starter Wade Miley, who underwent Tommy John surgery in May but continues to travel with the team to most games. ”Everyone overlooks us. Year after year, people write us off.”
“But in Milwaukee, there’s an expectation to reach the playoffs every single season.”
“This division belongs to us.”
Let’s be honest: Not even the abundance of bratwurst and beer could persuade anyone outside Milwaukee that this team would dominate the division.
The Cubs were anticipated to take the division after hiring Counsell, signing Japanese pitcher Shota Imanaga, and re-signing Cody Bellinger.
This was the season when the Cincinnati Reds were expected to see their young talent shine and elevate the team to new heights.
The Cardinals were projected to rebound with the addition of three new veteran starters.
Even the <a href="https://sportsdata.usatoday.com/
Pittsburgh Pirates were anticipated to make significant progress this season.
But what about the Brewers?
Surprisingly, they find themselves tied with the Philadelphia Phillies for the second-best record in the National League as of Sunday, leading the division for all but 14 days this year.
“We encountered considerable turmoil during the offseason,” admits Brewers GM Matt Arnold. “The odds were not in our favor, and there were numerous challenges.
“Nonetheless, we believed we possessed the right personnel to guide us through one of the toughest periods in Brewers’ history.”
So, does Arnold ever ponder how formidable this squad could be if they had retained Burnes, who is contending for the AL Cy Young award after being traded to the Orioles just prior to spring training?
“I’m not sure it’s beneficial to think that way,” Arnold reflects. “We must make tough choices, such as trading players like (former closer) Josh Hader and Corbin Burnes. We recognize the talent those players possess.
“However, we need to approach things differently than many other teams. Our goal is to assemble the right components for sustainable, long-term success and ultimately bring a championship to Milwaukee.”
This mindset is why Arnold chose to remain in Milwaukee despite being heavily pursued for the Mets GM position in 2021. It’s also why Murphy opted to stay, rather than follow Counsell to Chicago. This loyalty explains why stars like Robin Yount and Ryan Braun stayed, while Yelich committed to a nine-year extension to finish his career here.
There may be more money and status elsewhere, but with stunning summers in Wisconsin and a fervent fan base, Milwaukee has become one of baseball’s best-kept secrets.
“I really had no idea what to expect when I arrived here,” shares first baseman Rhys Hoskins, who signed a two-year, $34 million free-agent deal. “I’d heard many positive things about the organization, the city, and the community.
“But seeing the Brewers’ impact in this community, the passion that people have for the team, and the way they treat you has been incredibly rewarding.”
The Brewers enjoy immense popularity across Wisconsin. Recently, the Wisconsin state legislature and city approved over $500 million in public funding to renovate and upgrade the Brewers’ 22-year-old ballpark. Since 2004, they have attracted at least two million fans in every season not affected by COVID restrictions.
“Baseball holds significant meaning for the city and the state,” Attanasio remarks. “We receive tremendous support. It’s
been incredibly rewarding for everyone.”
In truth, the only individual not taking a moment to relax and revel in the success is Murphy. He isn’t spending his time at Water Street enjoying Pabst Blue Ribbons. Rather, he ensures he is the first person at the ballpark each day and one of the last to depart, unwilling to celebrate anything until they officially secure the division.
“The goal is to just win tonight; that’s our guiding principle,” Murphy states. “We’ve faced numerous challenges. We’ve had players dismissed, individuals told ‘You’re not good enough.’ But these players have made me believe in them. Their passion for competition is evident.
“But we haven’t achieved anything yet.”
The Brewers will admit they were uncertain of what to expect when Counsell departed. We are speaking of a two-time World Series champion as a player, one who recorded more wins than any manager in Brewers history; then suddenly, he was gone, and Murphy’s future could have been in jeopardy.
“We made the decision to keep the team intact,” Attanasio says. “And we are so glad we did.”
The players and everyone else in the organization always had faith in Murphy. He wasn’t merely an old college coach who happened to serve as a bench coach for eight years under Counsell, his former player at Notre Dame. He has never aimed to be everyone’s best buddy. He has refused to coddle anyone. Instead, he is known for his directness, and you better not shy away from the truth.
“You really have to credit Murph,” Miley observes. “He’s a true baseball enthusiast, which is why I decided to come back here. No disrespect to Counsell, but they are entirely different. Murphy is more extroverted. He knows how to motivate.
“He has a knack for saying the right thing at the right moment. Sometimes his words are personal. Occasionally, players take it personally. But he ignites a fire within you.
“When we win, he shows no signs of celebration. It’s always, ’What’s our plan to win tomorrow?’ Guys want to give their all for him. You’d run through a wall for that guy.”
Murphy, a frontrunner for NL Manager of the Year, introduced a monthly ritual where the Brewers hold a clubhouse meeting. They discuss everything and anything. If there are complaints, if players don’t understand certain decisions, they are encouraged to voice their thoughts. No topic is off-limits.
“Having open communication in this forum to share your thoughts is fantastic,” Hoskins remarks, “addressing matters that can enhance our game. It connects everyone and fosters a sense of comfort and community.”
The Brewers understand they might not possess the most talented roster. They certainly do not boast the highest-paid players in the game. Yet, they have honed a strategy for developing and recognizing talent, cultivating a distinctive culture that keeps them competitive year after year, currently sitting atop the NL Central once again.
“That’s why no one here is shocked by what we’re accomplishing,” Miley declares. “It’s a driven mentality. It’s reflected in the minor-league system’s work, ensuring players are prepared when they reach this level. It’s about finding the right fit for our clubhouse. It’s an exceptional group.
“And you know what?
“We’re not going anywhere.”
Thanks for the memories
Brewers GM Matt Arnold, who grew up in Bakersfield, California, has been a dedicated fan of the team.
Arnold, an avid Oakland A’s supporter, has fond childhood memories shared with family, which included carving their initials into the left-field bleachers for future generations.
Mimicking his favorite players, Arnold would lower his cap like Dave Stewart when pitching, make the snap catch in left field like Rickey Henderson, perform the fist pump after strikeouts like Dennis Eckersley, and crouch with his glove low like Carney Lansford at third base.
He even learned how to drive in the parking lot of the Oakland Coliseum.
“My dad would enjoy beers in the parking lot after games while I practiced driving, waiting for all the cars to leave,” Arnold reminisced. “He used to say, ‘If you crash into a light pole here, that’s on you.’
“There are so many wonderful memories associated with that place.”
With the Brewers visiting Oakland for the final time this weekend, Arnold decided to return to the Bay Area with his entire family. They attended the games together—his parents, sister, brother-in-law, and nephew joined him.
“Three generations of Arnolds,” he said. “I wanted one last look at it all.”
Arnold recalls sitting in the left-field bleachers during the pre-Raiders era before Mount Davis altered the center field. He vividly remembers the day he, along with his father, grandfather, and uncles, carved their initials into the bleachers.
Since this marks their last visit, why not engrave their initials once more?
“Back in the day, it was much easier to sneak a pocketknife into the games,” mentioned Arnold, an alumnus of the University of California-Santa Barbara. “I doubt we’d get a pocketknife past security nowadays.”
Arnold chuckles, fully aware that he will always cherish these memories.
“It’s bittersweet,” he admitted. “I’m really going to miss that place.”
Around the basepaths
≻ Recently, MLB managers, who are still significantly undercompensated, were likely taken aback when Tennessee coach Tony Vitello secured a five-year extension worth $3 million annually, while Texas coach Jim Schlossnagle will close out his seven-year contract with an annual salary of $2.68 million during the final five years.
Currently, only six managers in baseball earn as much as Vitello: Craig Counsell of the Chicago Cubs, Alex Cora of the Boston Red Sox, Bob Melvin of the San Francisco Giants, Bruce Bochy of the Texas Rangers, Dave Roberts of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Davey Martinez of the Washington Nationals.
≻ It is disgraceful that Seattle Mariners manager Scott Servais discovered his firing through social media, rather than from team president Jerry Dipoto, who informed him an hour later.
“It’s alarming that I found out that way,” Servais shared with several reporters in Seattle.
According to a Mariners official, the decision to terminate Servais had actually been made four days prior, but they wanted to verify details first.
with Dan Wilson to explore whether he would take the position.
≻ Shohei Ohtani may have secured his third MVP award on Friday night with a dramatic walk-off grand slam that placed him in the exclusive 40-40 club, but he expressed even greater excitement over the Dodgers’ narrow victory in their NL West showdown than any personal achievement.
Ohtani becomes the sixth player to join the 40-40 club. Will he be the inaugural member of the 50-50 club?
As the Dodgers commenced play on Saturday with 33 games left in the season, it’s worth noting that in his last 33 games, Ohtani recorded 11 home runs and 17 stolen bases.
≻ In the American League, despite Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr.’s impressive performance, which arguably holds more significance for his team than any player in baseball, it’s going to require a historic September to surpass New York Yankees center fielder Aaron Judge in the AL MVP race.
Judge is on track to become only the third player ever to hit 60 or more home runs twice in a career.
His last 100 games have been remarkable: a .378 batting average, 45 homers, and 106 RBIs.
He is the sole player to achieve a batting average of .375 or better with at least 45 home runs and 100 RBIs over any 100-game period, according to OptaSTATS.
≻ The San Diego Padres, still in pursuit of their inaugural World Series title, are poised to improve significantly.
Yu Darvish is set to return after a three-month absence due to personal reasons.
Outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr., who has been sidelined with a bruised femur, is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment this week.
Additionally, Joe Musgrove recently returned from the injured list and pitched a one-hit shutout over seven innings against the New York Mets in his first game back. Second baseman Xander Bogaerts boasts a .349 batting average and an .850 OPS since his return on July 12.
≻ The Atlanta Braves have faced significant challenges, losing ace Spencer Strider after two starts and reigning MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. back in May. They have been without third baseman Austin Riley and second baseman Ozzie Albies, and they spent two months without center fielder Michael Harris and catcher Sean Murphy. A third of their current lineup consists of players who were released this season.
Yet, as they entered Sunday, Atlanta trailed the Philadelphia Phillies by just five games.
≻ In a comical twist, when Ohtani hit his historic 40th home run, a fan dropped the ball, allowing it to bounce back onto the field, creating a valuable keepsake for both Ohtani and the Dodgers. Unfortunately, Tampa Bay Rays center fielder Jose Siri picked it up from the ground and tossed it back into the crowd.
≻ Few can rival Billy Milos of the Colorado Rockies in discovering independent league players capable of making it to the big leagues.
Last year, he found and signed perhaps four independent league players projected to reach the major leagues for the Minnesota Twins, ranging from 5-foot-7 infielder Payton Eeles to 6-foot-8 outfielder Carson McCuskers, as well as reliever Kyle Bischoff and pitcher Jarrett Whorff.
He is also responsible for signing MLB pitchers Nick Anderson and Randy Dobnak from the independent leagues.
≻ Scouts assert that the best pure hitter within the Arizona Diamondbacks system is backup catcher Adrian Del Castillo.
He’s certainly making a strong first impression, batting .342 with three home runs and 14 RBIs while holding a 1.010 OPS in his initial 11 games in the majors.
≻ Recall the excitement in Colorado when the Rockies brought Kris Bryant on board for a seven-year, $
182 million contract before the 2022 season?
Fast forward three seasons into that deal, and he has participated in just 159 games.
This season, he has landed on the injured list three times, currently boasting a batting average of .218 with two home runs and a .301 slugging percentage. Out of 162 games, he has been active in 37.
≻ The cut-throat nature of baseball was evident when the Dodgers decided to release outfielder Jason Heyward, a fan favorite, right after his exhilarating pinch-hit, three-run homer the previous night. With utility players Chris Taylor and Enrique Hernandez, along with center fielder Kevin Kiermaier, the Dodgers felt Heyward was the odd one out.
≻ The Blue Jays are considering utilizing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at third base next season and plan to increase his playing time there starting in September. Although Guerrero hasn’t been an everyday third baseman in four years, a strong selection of free-agent first basemen—including Pete Alonso and Christian Walker—this winter means finding a first baseman may be simpler than securing a solid third baseman.
≻ While the Texas Rangers may be out of the playoff race, their pitching rotation shows promise for next season with the anticipated returns of Jacob deGrom and newcomers Jack Leiter and Kumar Rocker.
≻ After the Cincinnati Reds declined his $20 million option last year, Joey Votto, who didn’t receive any major-league offers, spent his season striving to prove his worth in Triple-A Buffalo as part of the Blue Jays organization; however, injuries prevented him from achieving this goal.
Last week, he officially announced his retirement, resigned to the reality that he wouldn’t be called up to the Blue Jays this year.
“I’m truly saddened that I couldn’t make it happen,” Votto expressed to reporters. “That I couldn’t take the field at Rogers Centre in a Blue Jays uniform, representing the city and country I grew up in. But this isn’t my organization. So how can I show up and make it my moment? It feels disrespectful to the game, and I believe it disrespects the fans who pay to see top-tier performances. I would have delivered a disappointing show.”
≻ The Baltimore Orioles, who anticipated that Trevor Rogers would bring starting depth when they traded for him at the deadline, instead endured his poor performance until they could no longer tolerate it. Following a 7.11 ERA in four starts—none lasting more than five innings—they sent him down to the minors.
≻ The Pittsburgh Pirates maintain that they have no intentions of shutting down rookie standout Paul Skenes, who is competing with Padres center fielder Jackson Merrill for the NL Rookie of the Year award.
≻ Will Orioles outfielder Anthony Santander attract significant attention as a free agent this winter? The 29-year-old is enjoying the best season of his career with 38 home runs and 86 RBIs.
≻ A wonderful moment occurred for Hall of Famer Rod Carew, who grew up in Panama, as he was officially sworn in as a U.S. citizen this week at the age of 78.
“It took a lifetime, a great lifetime, but I’m finally here,” Carew shared with reporters during the ceremony.
≻ Following the All-Star break, seven National League teams have managed to achieve winning records. Four of those teams are from the NL West:
- Diamondbacks: 24-8
- Padres: 23-8
- Dodgers: 21-11
- Giants: 18-15
≻ This week, Chicago White Sox pitcher Chris Flexen made some unfortunate history as the team endured its 19th straight loss in games he started, breaking a single-season record set by Walt Dickson in 1912. Flexen’s record stands at 0-9, along with a 5.75 ERA and 10 no-decisions during this streak.
≻ The Padres have utilized a mere 20 position players this season, the fewest since 1985 when they only had 18.
≻ Hats off to Yankees pitcher Marcus Stroman, who recently awarded $25,000 in college scholarships to two high school students from the Bronx.
≻ Congratulations to former closer Brad Lidge, who is now a practicing archaeologist in the Italian village of Murlo after earning his master’s degree in ancient Roman archaeology, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D.
“Everything I accomplished in baseball is quite irrelevant now,” Lidge shared with the Philadelphia Inquirer. “We’re examining various items in our lab and comparing them with different studies. I aspire to achieve something meaningful beyond my baseball career.”
Follow Nightengale on X: @Bnightengale
# Resilience and Revival: How Pat Murphy’s Milwaukee Brewers Are Defying the Odds in 2024
## Understanding the Milwaukee Brewers’ Journey in 2024
The 2024 MLB season has been nothing short of a rollercoaster for the Milwaukee Brewers. Under the leadership of Manager Pat Murphy, the team has showcased remarkable resilience and a spirit of revival, defying the odds stacked against them. This article delves into how the Brewers have navigated challenges, highlighted key players, and offered strategies that have led to their unexpected success this season.
## Key Factors Contributing to the Brewers’ Success
### 1. Strong Leadership from Pat Murphy
Pat Murphy took over as the Brewers’ manager with a fresh perspective and a focus on team cohesion. His leadership style emphasizes open communication, which has fostered a culture of trust among players. Here’s how his approach has made a difference:
– **Emphasis on Player Development:** Murphy has prioritized nurturing young talent, allowing rookies to gain vital experience while maintaining competitive performance.
– **Strategic Game Management:** His in-game decision-making has been instrumental in critical moments, often turning close games in favor of the Brewers.
### 2. Stellar Player Performances
The Brewers have seen standout performances from both veterans and newcomers this season. Here are a few key players making an impact:
| Player Name | Position | 2024 Stats | Impact on Team |
|—————–|——————-|————–|———————|
| Corbin Burnes | Pitcher | 3.15 ERA | Ace of the rotation |
| Christian Yelich | Outfielder | .290 AVG | Team leader |
| Brice Turang | Infielder | .275 AVG | Rising star |
| Devin Williams | Relief Pitcher | 1.80 ERA | Bullpen anchor |
### 3. Resilience in Adversity
The 2024 season has brought its share of challenges, from injuries to tough matchups. The Brewers have demonstrated remarkable resilience, characterized by:
– **Mental Toughness:** Players have shown the ability to bounce back from losses and maintain focus on the next game.
– **Adaptability:** Murphy’s flexible strategies allow the team to adjust to the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents effectively.
### 4. Innovative Training Methods
Under Murphy, the Brewers have embraced advanced analytics and technology in their training regimens. Some notable approaches include:
– **Data-Driven Insights:** Utilizing player performance data to tailor training sessions for individual needs.
– **Virtual Reality Training:** Implementing VR technology to enhance batting and pitching skills, allowing players to visualize scenarios before they occur in real games.
## Benefits of the Brewers’ Resilience Strategy
### Building Team Cohesion
The strength of the Brewers lies in their unity. By promoting resilience, Murphy has cultivated a strong sense of camaraderie. Benefits include:
– **Improved Communication:** Players trust each other, leading to better on-field coordination.
– **Shared Goals:** A collective dedication to success fosters motivation and accountability among team members.
### Individual Growth
The focus on resilience not only helps the team but also promotes individual player growth. Players are encouraged to:
– **Learn from Mistakes:** Emphasizing that setbacks are opportunities for learning.
– **Push Beyond Limits:** Understanding that overcoming challenges leads to personal and professional development.
## Case Studies: Key Games that Showcased Resilience
### Game Against the Chicago Cubs
In a thrilling game against the Cubs, the Brewers rallied from a three-run deficit in the late innings. Highlights include:
– **Clutch Hitting:** Key hits from Yelich and Turang led to a game-tying rally.
– **Strong Bullpen Performance:** Williams shut down the Cubs in the final innings, securing a 5-4 victory.
### Series Against the St. Louis Cardinals
In a crucial series against their division rivals, the Brewers displayed their fighting spirit:
– **Comeback Wins:** The Brewers won two games after trailing at various points, showcasing their never-give-up attitude.
– **Inspiring Leadership:** Murphy’s calm demeanor during tense moments allowed players to stay focused.
## Practical Tips for Fostering Resilience in Sports Teams
### Encourage Open Communication
Promoting an environment where players feel safe to express concerns and ideas fosters resilience. Key practices include:
– **Regular Check-Ins:** Implement weekly meetings to discuss team dynamics and individual challenges.
– **Feedback Loops:** Encourage players to give and receive constructive feedback.
### Build a Strong Support System
Creating a network of support can significantly enhance resilience. Consider the following:
– **Mentorship Programs:** Pair experienced players with rookies to guide them through challenges.
– **Team Bonding Activities:** Organize events outside of practice to strengthen relationships.
### Emphasize Mental Conditioning
Mental toughness is crucial in sports. Implement strategies such as:
- **Mindfulness Training:** Incorporate relaxation techniques to help players manage pressure.
– **Goal Setting:** Encourage players to set short and long-term goals, providing a clear direction.
## First-Hand Experience: Insights from Players
### Christian Yelich on Team Resilience
Christian Yelich reflects on the team’s mindset, stating, “We’ve faced a lot this season, but we don’t let it define us. We come together and believe in each other, and that’s what makes us strong.”
### Corbin Burnes on Leadership
Corbin Burnes emphasizes the importance of Murphy’s leadership: “Pat has instilled confidence in us. He trusts us to make the right plays, which has really allowed us to flourish.”
## The Future Outlook for the Brewers
As the 2024 season progresses, the Milwaukee Brewers are positioned as serious contenders in the MLB. With Pat Murphy at the helm, the emphasis on resilience and revival is likely to propel them forward. Key aspects to watch for include:
– **Continued Player Development:** Expect emerging stars to rise as the season unfolds.
- **Strategic Acquisitions:** The trade deadline might bring in additional talent to bolster the team further.
the Milwaukee Brewers exemplify resilience and revival in sports, driven by strong leadership, exceptional player performances, and an innovative approach to training. Their journey in 2024 is a testament to the power of teamwork and determination. As the season unfolds, fans can anticipate more thrilling moments from this inspiring team.
