Players To Watch
3 min read

Brewers vs Pirates: Spotlight on William Contreras and Oneil Cruz Ahead of Milwaukee Showdown

As the Brewers gear up to host the Pirates at American Family Field, all eyes are on William Contreras and Oneil Cruz, who have emerged as top performers for their respective teams. Contreras, the Brewers' catcher, has been a beacon of consistency, boasting an impressive average across the last three games. His performance peaked in the game against the Cardinals on May 11th, where he hit a .500 average with a .750 on-base percentage and a staggering 1.75 OPS, showcasing his ability to get on base and drive in runs.


Apr 24, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Milwaukee Brewers second baseman Brice Turang (2) turns a double play over Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Jared Triolo (19) during the sixth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

On the other side, Oneil Cruz, the Pirates' shortstop, has shown his prowess in the game against the Cubs on May 11th by hitting a .500 average with an OPS of 2.0. His performance not only highlighted his batting skills but also his significant contribution to the team's offense.


Looking at their recent performances:


- William Contreras has been exceptional with an overall hitting average of .444 over the last three games, combining for an OBP of .600 and an OPS of 1.672.


- Rhys Hoskins has also made notable contributions with a .333 batting average and driving in four runs across these games.


- For the Pirates, Connor Joe stands out with a combined performance that includes hitting a home run and driving in five runs over their past matchups.


Apr 24, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Milwaukee Brewers starting pitcher Bryse Wilson (46) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming game promises to be an exciting clash between two teams with standout performers ready to make their mark. The Brewers' lineup looks robust with Contreras leading from behind the plate, while Hoskins' ability to drive in crucial runs cannot be overlooked. On the mound for the Brewers, Jared Koenig and Freddy Peralta have shown promising signs despite mixed results in their recent outings.


For Pittsburgh, beyond Cruz's offensive firepower, Andrew McCutchen's experience could play a pivotal role. His .417 batting average over recent games adds depth to Pittsburgh's lineup alongside Edward Olivares who managed a perfect 1.000 batting average in one of these contests.


Apr 24, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Milwaukee Brewers relief pitcher Bryan Hudson (52) pitches against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the sixth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

As both teams prepare for this encounter, it will be interesting to see how strategies unfold around these key players. Whether it's Contreras' bat or Cruz's all-around contributions that end up tipping the scales remains one of the intriguing storylines heading into this matchup.


Fans eager to catch this thrilling face-off can tune into BSWI or head down to American Family Field in Milwaukee on May 13th at 23:40 UTC. With both teams looking poised for an intense battle underpinned by stellar individual performances, this game is set not just as another chapter in their rivalry but as a showcase of baseball talent ready to leave its mark on this season.

Rate the article

Related stories

Brewers' Garrett Mitchell Shines as Milwaukee Faces Mets in Playoff Showdown
Players To Watch

Brewers' Garrett Mitchell Shines as Milwaukee Faces Mets in Playoff Showdown

3 min read
Brewers' Star Garrett Mitchell Eyes Victory in Playoff Game Against Wild Card #3
Players To Watch

Brewers' Star Garrett Mitchell Eyes Victory in Playoff Game Against Wild Card #3

3 min read
Brewers' Garrett Mitchell Leads Charge Against Mets in High-Stakes Showdown
Players To Watch

Brewers' Garrett Mitchell Leads Charge Against Mets in High-Stakes Showdown

4 min read