Gross Homers in the 10th to Beat Cubs

The Milwaukee Brewers played their first extra innings game of the ‘08 season, beating the Chicago Cubs in the 10th inning.  Milwaukee will face Chicago again on Opening Day, on March 31.  Let’s break down what happened today.

Batting

Today was a big day for the Brewers outfielders.  Tony Gwynn Jr. hit his first home run as a major league player today, blasting a two-run shot off of Sean Gallagher.  Gwynn also had a triple in the first inning, so it is nice to see Tony swinging the bat well to start off the spring.

In addition to Gwynn, Mike Cameron also hit a home run off Gallagher, belting one to lead off the 5th inning.  Gabe Gross broke the tie in the 10th inning after putting one out of the park, and Gabe Kapler hit a two-run double to break open the game in the 10th.  It is very good to see the potential “fill-ins” for Cameron for the first 25-games of the season playing well and swinging the bat well.

J.J. Hardy had an RBI-single in the 7th, and Brad Nelson kept up his hot hitting today, going 1-2 with a walk, a run, and an RBI.

LaPorta Watch: Matt didn’t make it on the field today, but should be in the lineup tomorrow.

Pitching

Claudio Vargas started the game with two solid innings, but gave up three runs in the third inning.  He seems to be throwing the ball fairly well, but he still has his moments where he cannot seem to get an out.

Seth McClung, Brian Shouse, and Luis Pena all pitched a scoreless inning to help the Brewers pull out a win.  Luis did make it interesting, however, in the top of the 10th.  He loaded the bases, but was able to escape without any damage.

Records: Milwaukee (3-2); Chicago (2-3)

On Tap

Milwaukee will take on the Texas Rangers tomorrow.  Dave Bush and Manny Parra are scheduled to pitch for the Crew, and Prince Fielder should be back in the lineup after taking a day off today.

Jim Breen covers all the important news and rumors concerning the Milwaukee Brewers at his site, BrewersNation.