Yelich’s Home Run Secures Brewers’ 8-game Streak

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    CINCINNATI — In a thrilling matchup, the Milwaukee Brewers extended their impressive winning streak to eight games by defeating the Cincinnati Reds 3-2 on Monday night. The spotlight was on Christian Yelich, who smashed his fourth home run in a span of just six games. Yelich, who was honored as the National League Player of the Week, showcased his skill by launching a full-count slider from Brady Singer 417 feet to the center field, giving the Brewers a lead in the third inning.

    Sal Frelick contributed significantly with two hits, as the Brewers matched their longest winning streak since a nine-game run back in August 2023. On the mound, Aaron Civale managed to claim his first win of the season. Making his third start after nearly two months on the sidelines due to a strained left hamstring, Civale delivered a commendable performance over 5 1/3 innings. Despite conceding two runs in the opening inning, he made a strong comeback, striking out five batters.

    The game was sealed by Trevor Megill, who retired the Reds in order during the ninth inning, achieving his 12th save in 13 opportunities. Cincinnati initially took a 2-0 lead in the first thanks to RBI hits from Elly De La Cruz and Spencer Steer. Nevertheless, Milwaukee answered back in the second inning. With the bases loaded, Joey Ortiz drew a walk to bring home Sal Frelick, and Brice Turang’s sacrifice fly allowed Andrew Monasterio to score, leveling the game.

    A critical moment occurred in the sixth inning when Cincinnati posed a scoring threat with runners on first and second and just one out. However, Milwaukee’s left-hander Rob Zastryzny skillfully struck out Jose Trevino and compelled pinch-hitter Santiago Espinal to ground out, extinguishing the Reds’ hopes. Zastryzny, acquired in a trade with the Yankees in May, had a brief yet successful stint with the Brewers last season, boasting a 1.17 ERA in nine appearances. This year, he has continued to impress, not allowing any runs in seven appearances.

    Throughout a remarkable nine-game hitting streak, Yelich has been in top form, batting .450. He has collected 18 hits in 40 at-bats, including six home runs and 14 RBIs. As they move forward, the Brewers will look to right-hander Freddy Peralta, who has an impressive 5-3 record with a 2.77 ERA, ranking among the lowest in the National League. On the other side, Cincinnati is set to counter with Hunter Greene, who holds a 4-3 record and a 2.63 ERA.