Milwaukee Brewers rookie Jackson Chourio is excited about more celebrations in the clubhouse, even though he isn’t old enough to enjoy the drinks fully.
When the Brewers won the NL Central title, the 20-year-old Chourio found some non-alcoholic beverages in a stroller by his locker.
The Baltimore Orioles did something similar for their own 20-year-old rookie, Jackson Holliday, during their playoff celebration. They gave him a package with bottled water, baby bottles, a child’s jersey, and coloring books featuring the Orioles mascot.
Chourio enjoyed the funny gift and the festive mood in the locker room.
“I hope there’s more to come,” Chourio said through a translator.
Whether that happens this month partly depends on how well Chourio continues to play. He is one of the standout rookies getting ready for the playoffs this week.
This season has been remarkable for rookies. The most talked-about player, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, will not be in the playoffs. However, many other first-year players are expected to have important roles in this postseason.
Two of the best rookies share the name Jackson.
Chourio gained attention in the offseason when the Brewers signed him to an eight-year, $82 million contract, the largest amount ever guaranteed to a non-Japanese player without major league experience. At that time, he had only played six games above Double-A.
This year, he has shown his talent by becoming the youngest player ever to finish a season with at least 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases. The Brewers believe he can handle the pressure of the playoffs.
“Chourio will be fine,” Brewers manager Pat Murphy said. “I’m confident. This kid’s endured everything. He’s got some guys in the room that have been in the postseason, and they’ll help him through it for sure.”
