Reds Five-Run Fourth Inning More Than Enough to Defeat Brewers 6-1

WP: Bronson Arroyo (2-1)
LP: Marco Estrada (0-2)

HR: Ryan Braun (9), Zack Cozart (3), Jay Bruce (9)

MVP: Ryan Braun (+.113)
LVP: Marco Estrada (-.337)

Box Score

Win Expectancy Graph and Star of the Game Voting

Even returning to Miller Park is not enough to end the nightmares that the Brewers are facing.

It looked good to start the game as Ryan Braun hit a home run in his first at-bat to give the Brewers a 1-0 lead after the first inning. After that, both pitchers got going and it became a pitcher's duel for the next few innings.

The fourth inning was the deciding inning in this game. Marco Estrada had been perfect through the first three innings, but that changed quickly. The first five batters for the Reds reached base in the inning, bookended by home runs from Zack Cozart and Jay Bruce. The Brewers had their own chance in the bottom of the fourth inning as Ryan Braun and Aramis Ramirez both singled to start the inning, and an error put them on second and third with no one out. Corey Hart would then strike out and Jonathan Lucroy pop out to record the first two outs in the inning, but Travis Ishikawa drew a walk to load the bases. However, Cesar Izturis lined out to Jay Bruce to end the inning.

If there was a silver lining to this game, it was that Marco Estrada did eat some innings to rest the bullpen. He went seven innings in the game, allowing the five runs in the fourth inning but nothing more. He also allowed eight hits in the game, but gave up no walks and struck out five. Manny Parra pitched a perfect eighth inning, and Vinnie Chulk gave up a run in the ninth to cover the rest of the game.

Give some credit to Bronson Arroyo today, as he was just on top of his game. He pitched 6 2/3 innings today, only allowing the Braun home run for scoring. He also allowed a total of six hits and one walk, but struck out nine over the course of the game.

With the loss, the Brewers fall to 12-17. They will get another chance tomorrow night against the Reds. Starting for the Reds is Homer Bailey, and Yovani Gallardo will make the start for the Brewers.