In the N.L. Central, things are not always what they appear. And sometime around 1:30 PM Central Standard Time on Friday afternoon, one of the most important series of the first-half gets underway. The Brewers of Milwaukee invade Wrigley in a matchup of the two hottest teams in baseball. The Cubs are currently on a six game win streak which has been defined by tons of offense, great defense, and a 9th inning blowup/rally that could turn into a season-defining victory. The Brew Crew, owners of the best home record in baseball, have swept 2 of the last 3 opponents, and look to quell any swell the Cubs want to make towards the top spot in the standings.
Friday's game is a matchup between two of the best young arms in the National League: Rich Hill and Yovani Gallardo. Hill has been one of the best arms on the Senior Circuit since his recall late last summer, and has, so far, lived up to expectations on the North Side. Hill, of the silly pull-the-string curve, looks to continue his dominance of the N.L. Central against a lineup he has had success against in the past. All Gallardo has done this year was destroy AAA and prove he was the most dominant pitching prospect in the minor leagues. He throws a dynamic four-seam fastball with a plus curve and a very good change. He's a future Cy Young-type talent.
Offensively, both teams are plowing through opponents recently. The Cubs put up 23 runs in the three game sweep of the Rockies, and the Brewers outscored their opponents 63-30 while winning 8 of the last 9. Look for Alfonso Soriano and Prince Fielder to continue their marches towards the All-Star game.
The first game of the series is broadcast nationally on cable on WGN Superstation. For any of you who Friday afternoon off, or have TiVo handy, I suggest tuning to the superstation, sitting back with a Bud Light, and enjoying watching a great matchup.
Posted by David Brunner of Major League Ramblings
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