The Milwaukee Brewers' journey to the NLCS is a testament to the impact of midseason trades, as the additions of Jacob Misiorowski and Andrew Vaughn proved pivotal. But was it a stroke of genius or a lucky break?
The Unlikely Heroes:
In a dramatic twist, two players who started the season in the minor leagues with different organizations became key contributors to the Brewers' success. Vaughn and Misiorowski, one on the rise and the other on the decline, found themselves in Milwaukee's lineup in June, and the rest is history.
A Game-Changing Homer:
Vaughn's heroics in Game 5 of the NL Division Series against the Chicago Cubs cannot be overstated. His tiebreaking homer in the fourth inning set the tone for a 3-1 victory, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion. But here's where it gets intriguing: Vaughn's journey to Milwaukee began with a trade that few expected to pay off so quickly.
The Trade Saga:
When Misiorowski was promoted to the Brewers' rotation, Aaron Civale's demotion to the bullpen led to his request for a trade. The Brewers obliged, sending Civale to the Chicago White Sox in exchange for Vaughn. But at the time, Vaughn's struggles with the White Sox (.189 batting average) suggested he might not be an immediate solution. And this is the part most people miss—the Brewers initially sent Vaughn to the minors, only to call him up in July due to an injury.
A Remarkable Transformation:
Vaughn's turnaround was nothing short of extraordinary. After a stern warning from manager Pat Murphy about his pitch selection, Vaughn homered in his first at-bat with the Brewers and improved his chase rate significantly. His numbers with Milwaukee (.308 batting average) speak for themselves, and his impact on the team's success is undeniable.
A Flamethrower's Journey:
Misiorowski, a right-handed flamethrower, had a rollercoaster season. He burst onto the scene, earning an All-Star Game selection after just five starts, including wins over elite pitchers. But an injury and a subsequent slump raised questions about his reliability. However, his stellar performance in the NLDS, with a peak velocity of 104.3 mph and no walks, solidified his importance to the team.
The Road Ahead:
As the Brewers prepare for the NLCS against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Misiorowski's role is assured. His passion and talent were evident in the NLDS, and he will be a key asset. But for Vaughn, the question remains: Can he maintain his remarkable form and continue to be the difference-maker the Brewers need?
The Brewers' front office took a chance on these players, and it paid off in the short term. But will this success continue in the high-pressure environment of the NLCS? Only time will tell. What do you think? Was this a stroke of genius or a lucky break for the Brewers?
