Javier Assad delivered an impressive performance, pitching six strong innings as the Chicago Cubs defeated Freddy Peralta and the Milwaukee Brewers 5-0 on Sunday in the decisive game of their weekend series.
Assad, who improved his record to 3-0, gave up only four hits while striking out four and walking three, bringing his earned run average down to 1.66 for the season. He has consistently kept opponents to two runs or fewer in all seven of his starts this year.
“Assad has an arsenal of pitches that keeps batters off balance,” remarked Cubs manager Craig Counsell.
Following a 3-1 loss on Friday, Chicago bounced back with consecutive victories over Milwaukee. The Cubs’ starting pitchers were exceptional throughout the series, holding the Brewers scoreless for a combined 18 1/3 innings and allowing just nine hits in total.
“Our pitching staff, both starters and relievers, is really solid,” Assad commented. “It’s inspiring to see them perform well and support each other.”
Peralta, who received his first start since serving a five-game suspension for his involvement in a recent altercation with the Rays, struggled with control, issuing six walks in five innings of work. Despite allowing only three hits and striking out five, he was unable to keep the Cubs’ offense at bay.
The Cubs took charge by scoring three runs in Peralta’s last inning. Nico Hoerner hit a double that brought in two runs, then moved to third on a groundout and crossed the plate on a wild pitch with two outs.
Dansby Swanson hit a home run to start the sixth inning against Thyago Vieira, and Christopher Morel singled to bring home Mike Tauchman in the seventh. Morel finished the game with one hit and three walks.
Milwaukee had opportunities to score in the fourth and fifth innings, with runners on first and second both times, but Assad managed to escape without giving up any runs. Oliver Dunn grounded out to end the fourth inning, and Tyler Black struck out in the fifth.
Swanson made a crucial play in the first inning when he slid to stop Willy Adames’ grounder, preventing a run from scoring and getting the final out of the inning with a runner stranded on third base.
“It was all about being aggressive and making things happen today,” Swanson commented. “That mindset carried over to both offense and defense.” The Brewers struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities, going 0 for 7 with runners in scoring position and leaving eight runners on base.
“We faced three pitchers who were very effective,” said Milwaukee manager Pat Murphy, reflecting on the series. “Unfortunately, we couldn’t convert with runners in scoring position. But it’s a learning experience for our team.”
