Yovani Gallardo, Prince Fielder Lead Brewers to Game 1 Victory
By Editorial Staff
It was more of the same for the Milwaukee Brewers Saturday. More Yovani Gallardo and Prince Fielder led to another home victory for the Brewers, as they beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 4-1 to take a 1-0 advantage in the National League Division Series.
Gallardo was on point Saturday afternoon, holding the Diamondbacks to one run on four hits over eight strong innings. Gallardo struck out nine while surrendering only a single free pass.
The Diamondbacks managed just one extra base hit against Gallardo, Ryan Roberts solo shot in the 8th. Two of Arizona’s hits came in the first inning, when Ryan Braun picked up Gallardo with his arm. Braun gunned down Willie Bloomquist at the plate.
Braun would also pitch in with his bat. The slugger went three for four with a double and two runs scored.
Gallardo’s counterpart, Ian Kennedy, held his own over the first six frames, keeping the Diamondbacks within two runs. But, Kennedy’s 7th inning mistake to Fielder allowed Milwaukee to break things open.
After retiring the first two batters of the inning, Kennedy served up Braun’s third hit, a double to right. With first base open and two outs, Kennedy decided to pitch to Fielder. Fielder, in turn, took Kennedy deep to right, increasing the Brewers lead to 4-0.
Fielder’s home run chased Kennedy, the right-hander allowing four earned runs on eight hits over 6.2 innings.
Roberts was able to reduce the deficit to three in the 8th, but Brewers closer John Axford shut the door with his perfect 9th inning.
The series continues today, with Daniel Hudson taking on Zack Greinke in game two.
For more on the Diamondbacks and Brewers, be sure to check out Venom Strikes and Reviewing the Brew.