A 3-run 7th and a 2-run 8th by the Giants–with all 5 runs scoring with two outs–spelled doom for the Crew and an 8-4 loss. Coupled with the Cubs’ win earlier in the day, the Brewers’ lead in the NL Central is now down to just two games in the loss column.
Brewers’ pitchers focused on Barry Bonds, and kept him hitless on the night…problem is, all seven other starting position players each got a hit. Starter Jeff Suppan allowed the initial 3 runs, all earned, over the first 5 IP…and the Crew took a 4-3 lead into the top of the 7th, thanks to a 1st inning triple by Corey Hart that led to a run, an RBI double by Kevin Mench in the 4th that plated Ryan Braun, and a J.J. Hardy RBI single that plated Weeks (in a crushing play at the plate) and Corey Hart.
But while the Giants’ pen only allowed one more hit on the night–just the 6th for the Brewers and the only hit in the last 3 innings–the Crew’s bullpen was rattled. Actually, lefty Brian Shouse pitched a scoreless 6th inning; and lefty Manny Parra pitched a scoreless 9th inning…but in-between, righties Carlos Villanueva, Grant Balfour, and Derrick Turnbow together allowed 4 hits and 5 walks. Note to Ned: if the Giants’ first five hitters all bat left-handed, and lefty Brian Shouse dominated in the 6th, you might want to consider giving lefty Manny Parra the ball over Grant Balfour. Anyway, now that Parra has made his MLB debut, with success, Yost might feel more comfortable in going to him today.
Righty Dave Bush goes for the Crew today…look for the same left-handed hitting batting order today, with the possible exception that Barry might be given the day off.
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