UPDATE: In a thrilling twist ahead of Game 5, both the Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers have confirmed they will start relievers as openers this Saturday, October 14, 2023. The Cubs will send left-hander Drew Pomeranz to the mound, while the Brewers will turn to their All-Star closer, right-hander Trevor Megill. This strategic move is set to ignite the intensity of a decisive matchup with major playoff implications.
Both teams are prepared for a high-stakes battle, with neither pitcher expected to go deep into the game. The Cubs’ manager, Craig Counsell, emphasized the team’s versatility, stating, “With the exception of Game 4 starter Matt Boyd, everyone’s going to be available. We have 11 pitchers to figure out how to get 27 outs. That’s how we’re treating it.”
Pomeranz has been exceptional this postseason, boasting a perfect record with a 2.17 ERA in 57 regular-season appearances, primarily in relief. He has struck out five batters without allowing any hits or walks in five scoreless innings this postseason, including a win in Game 3. The Cubs opted for Pomeranz over Game 2’s starter, Shota Imanaga, who struggled with a 6.51 ERA in September.
On the other side, Megill, who recorded 30 saves with a 2.49 ERA during the regular season, returned from injury to contribute to the Brewers. He has pitched in two games this series, demonstrating his value in high-pressure situations. The Brewers are expected to replicate their Game 2 strategy, which saw seven pitchers combine for a 7-3 victory.
The emotional stakes are high as the Cubs aim to become the 11th team in history to win a best-of-five series after losing the first two games, a feat last accomplished by the New York Yankees in 2017. The winning team will advance to the National League Championship Series (NLCS), starting Monday.
As fans gear up for this pivotal match, all eyes will be on the mound. Will the Cubs make history or will the Brewers secure their spot in the next round? The anticipation is palpable as both teams prepare for a showdown that promises to be nothing short of electrifying. Stay tuned for live updates as this story develops!