Series Preview: Atlanta Braves at Milwaukee Brewers
Welcome to the 2014 Opening Series Braves Country! For our first series preview, we see your Atlanta Braves head to Miller Park in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to take on the Brewers in their first attempt to defend their 2013 division championship. Injuries have lowered most expectations the sports world had for this Atlanta club, but the Braves will attempt to silence doubters with a mix of youth, resilience, and a potentially lethal offense. The Brewers are looking to prove their worth in the NL Central, coming off of a 4th place finish and their worst record since 2004, going 74-88 in 2013, while losing their star player, Ryan Braun, to a a 65 game suspension for his involvement in last year’s Biogenesis scandal.
Game 1:
2:10 PM EST, 3/31, Monday
Probables: Julio Teheran vs Yovani Gallardo
Game 2:
8:10 PM EST, 4/1, Tuesday
Probables: Alex Wood vs Kyle Lohse
Game 3:
1:10 PM EST, 4/2, Wednesday
Probables: Aaron Harang vs Matt Garza
Things To Look For:
- There is already an inherent pressure that comes with starting an Opening Day, but at 24 coming off of a contract extension and spectacular Spring, Julio Teheran might be facing a little more than normal. His performance will be crucial to getting the ball rolling on the season.
- B.J. Upton looks to start the season batting in the number two spot in the lineup, with the cleanup spot going to Chris Johnson. We all know why Upton has something to prove, but the number two spot in the order is more than an odd placement for he and likewise for fourth and Johnson. Fredi Gonzalez is putting a lot of stock in this lineup configuration, but it leaves room for speculation.
- Alex Wood had a phenomenal Spring, and the Braves are hoping his success will help cushion the waiting period until Mike Minor and Ervin Santana are ready to join the rotation.
Tidbits:
- In the last 9 games at Miller Park, the Braves are just 1-8!
- Aaron Harang is 6-6 with a 4.19 ERA in 152.2 career innings against the Brew Crew.