MILWAUKEE — Brewers pitcher Jacob Misiorowski had no idea he was on the brink of history during his electrifying debut on Thursday night. The 23-year-old pitcher capped his major league debut with a commanding performance in Milwaukee’s 6-0 triumph over the St. Louis Cardinals, despite remaining oblivious to his no-hit bid.
“I had no clue,” Misiorowski said after the game, recounting his assumption that a popup might have landed for a hit. Though Milwaukee didn’t complete the no-hitter, they got promising news concerning Misiorowski’s health. The towering 6-foot-7 pitcher was forced to leave mid-game due to a minor injury that the team confirmed was not severe.
Misiorowski made a puzzling exit after an awkward landing on the mound caused his foot to twist, resulting in leg cramping as he began the sixth inning against Victor Scott. Despite medical staff attention and a switch to reliever Nick Mears, further explanation reassured fans, highlighting only cramping in Misiorowski’s right calf and quadriceps. Despite this setback, Misiorowski remained upbeat about his condition.
“Stuff happens,” he remarked, disappointed by the abrupt end to his outing but confident he could have pitched further. Manager Pat Murphy noted a potential ankle twist, but Misiorowski insisted there was no cause for concern, assuring reporters he felt “all good” after his first big league game.
Before the surprising conclusion, Misiorowski impressed by displaying the raw talent that earned him top prospect status. His control was an occasional struggle, resulting in four walks, but his overpowering speed led to five strikeouts and multiple triple-digit pitches. The velocity wowed, with notable pitches clocking at least 100 mph, including one reaching 102.2 mph — the fastest by a Brewers starter since pitch tracking began in 2008.
Misiorowski’s debut set milestones, with 14 of his 81 pitches reaching speeds of at least 100 mph. Only a handful of pitchers have surpassed this showing in their debuts since 2008. Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol acknowledged Misiorowski’s outstanding arm, admiring the notable velocity and reach.
Earlier performances had already set expectations high, as a recent 103 mph pitch while in Triple-A cemented Misiorowski’s potential. During the debut, his fastball averaged an imposing 99.1 mph, supplemented by sliders, curveballs, and changeups, comprising his 81-pitch slate.
Brewers manager Murphy applauded Misiorowski’s poise under expected nerves, and teammates like left-hander Aaron Ashby were confident in the newcomer’s promising future. Ashby praised Misiorowski’s diligent preparation and was impressed by his readiness for the major leagues.
The night wasn’t without its end-of-game drama, as Ashby ultimately allowed the first hit in the seventh, terminating the no-hit bid. Nonetheless, his three-inning effort secured a save, the third in his career.
The relief felt by fans regarding Misiorowski’s post-game condition further sets the stage for his next outing. Having faced debut jitters, Misiorowski is now ready to embrace restful nights and anticipate building on his notable first appearance.