UPDATE: Milwaukee Brewers centerfielder Jackson Chourio is in doubt for Game 2 of the NLDS against the Chicago Cubs after an MRI on his right hamstring returned inconclusive results, according to manager Pat Murphy. The announcement comes just before the game scheduled for Monday, heightening tensions among fans and players alike.
Chourio, just 21 years old, exited Game 1 on Saturday after sprinting for an infield hit, aggravating the same hamstring he injured in July while facing the Cubs. “I can’t give you a definitive answer, but we’re going to test some things today,” Murphy stated. The MRI indicated it is not a serious hamstring strain, but it leaves Chourio’s immediate playing future hanging in the balance.
“He’s going to be out there today,” Murphy added. “I don’t know that he’ll do much, but it’s not necessarily something that won’t limit him.” In his brief appearance in Game 1, Chourio went 3 for 3, contributing significantly to Milwaukee’s 9-3 victory.
If Chourio is unable to play, rookie Isaac Collins is expected to step in as his replacement in the lineup. This development would be a crucial adjustment for the Brewers as they look to maintain momentum in the series.
In other lineup news, Murphy confirmed that left-handed pitcher Aaron Ashby will start Game 2. After a brief outing of just 1.1 innings in Game 1, he will likely aim to neutralize Cubs’ leadoff hitter Michael Busch, who homered in the series opener. “He could go as long as we want him to,” Murphy commented on Ashby’s potential effectiveness.
Following Ashby, righty Quinn Priester is anticipated to take the mound for bulk innings, although Murphy stopped short of outlining a definitive game plan. The Cubs will counter with lefty Shota Imanaga, who previously pitched against the San Diego Padres in the wild-card round.
“He’s a competitor,” said Cubs manager Craig Counsell. “He pitches with a lot of joy while competing at a really high level.”
Imanaga has struggled historically against the Brewers, holding a 5.73 ERA in four career games, including three starts this season. “I think all the hitters understand what they need to do,” Imanaga stated, emphasizing the importance of taking it “one out at a time.”
As Game 2 approaches, all eyes will be on Chourio’s status and how the Brewers adapt without their rising star. The urgency escalates, with fans eager for updates on this critical matchup.
Stay tuned for further developments as the Brewers aim to secure their lead in the series against the Cubs. This is a pivotal moment, and every decision counts.
