William Contreras hit a single that brought in a run during Milwaukee’s eighth inning, helping the Brewers win their first game against former manager Craig Counsell by defeating the Chicago Cubs 3-1 on Friday.
The Brewers started a series against the top teams in the NL Central with a win, even though Hayden Wesneski of Chicago pitched well until the seventh inning and Christopher Morel hit a home run, his third in five games. While much attention was on Counsell facing his old team, he didn’t make a big deal about it.
“We’re just focused on winning the game,” he said. “This is a good team. We spend most of our time figuring out how to beat them.
I have good relationships with some people there. You miss people when you leave. Do I miss people there? Yes, because you build strong relationships with them.”
Counsell led the Brewers to three division titles and playoff appearances in five of the last six seasons. He had a record of 707-625 in nine years and set franchise records for wins and games managed.
Counsell, a former infielder, also had two stints playing for the Brewers during his 16-year career. He grew up near Milwaukee in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, and his father, John Counsell, used to work for the team as the director of community affairs.
After his contract ended last season, Counsell became a highly sought-after free agent in baseball. The Cubs surprised many by hiring him and letting go of David Ross.
“He’s still a great person, but when you’re on the field, your focus is only on winning the game,” Contreras said through an interpreter.
Milwaukee’s comeback started with Jackson Chourio, who came off the bench and hit a single with one out in the eighth inning against Adbert Alzolay (1-4). Chourio then stole second base and scored on Contreras’ single.
Contreras also stole second base and later scored on Willy Adames’ single with two outs. The Brewers added another run when Adames stole second and scored on Jake Bauers’ single to center field, with Alzolay facing criticism from the crowd.
Milwaukee’s Joe Ross pitched six innings, allowing six hits, after losing his previous three starts. Elvis Peguero (4-0) and Joel Payamps each pitched one inning before Trevor Megill closed the game in the ninth inning for his second save.
