Previewing a West Coast Showdown vs. the Padres

The early April tests aren’t done yet, as the Crew heads to San Diego for a four-game series against last year’s National League runner-up this weekend.

The Brewers will need to contain one of the most daunting lineups in MLB. On top of perennial All-Stars Manny Machado and Juan Soto, they added one of the top shortstops in the League this past offseason in Xander Bogaerts.

Here’s what to watch for as the Brewers hunt for another series victory.

Watch Out for Willy

It’s no secret that Willy Adames is a threat every time he steps into the batter’s box, but the slugger is at his absolute best when battling the Padres.

Since 2019, Adames has turned in a staggering .480 batting average in seven games against San Diego – the highest mark among MLB players with 20 or more at-bats against the Padres in that time span.

A ton of Willy’s success has come at Petco Park, where Adames has logged a .636 career batting average during his three-game visit back in 2019.

After a slow start to the season, Adames seems to be finding his groove, with three homers in his last five games. His slash line on the young season is up to an impressive .300/.383/.550, good for a .933 OPS. History says a matchup against the Padres could help Willy stay hot.

Bullpen Dominance

The Brewers bullpen underwent a massive shakeup before the season began, leaving the door open for newcomers and fresh faces.

Despite the new look, the Crew's bullpen has been the best in Baseball to begin the year. Brewers relievers boast a League-leading left on base percentage, allowing only one inherited runner to score all season.

Leading the way is Bryse Wilson, Peter Strzelecki and Devin Williams. The dominant group has combined for 11 strikeouts across 14 shutout innings.

It’s been an all-hands-on-deck effort that’s paid off in big-time moments. Milwaukee’s relievers have yet to surrender an earned run in a high-leverage situation.

Facing Josh Hader

Speaking of relievers, the Brewers will face one of the top bullpen arms in their franchise history when they match up with Josh Hader for the first time this weekend.

After an inconsistent start with San Diego following the trade from Milwaukee last August, Hader has returned to his electric form so far in 2023. The four-time All-Star and three-time Reliever of the Year has compiled a 1.80 ERA and an MLB-leading four saves through five appearances this season.

While several Brewers players like Corbin Burnes are looking forward to a reunion with their longtime teammate, the Crew will try to take leads into the ninth inning and avoid their former closer in high-leverage spots this weekend.

Will Eric Lauer Shake Off a Cold Start?

Eric Lauer is slated to make his third start of the season on Friday in San Diego, where he’ll look to get on track following a rocky start to 2023.

Entering the series, the southpaw carries a 7.71 ERA to go along with a 1.82 WHIP. And after registering a career high fastball velocity last season, Lauer has seen a dip in velocity on his four-seamer this year.

However, if there’s a time for Lauer to get back on track, it's against his old team. The 27-year-old has been fantastic in two career games against the Padres, registering two quality starts and surrendering no more than one earned run in each outing.

With Brandon Woodruff headed to the injured list, Lauer’s ability to put together quality starts will be a key factor as the Brewers look to remain a force in the National League.