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What we learned: April 1, 2014

Today's lessons include a quick change at closer, the meaning of Opening Day, and many other notes as the Brewers season began.

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Mike McGinnis

Yesterday's Results

Brewers 2, Braves 0

If you are a fan of high-scoring games, then this game was a disappointment for you. However, if you're a fan of the Brewers winning, then it was a good game. Yovani Gallardo was not on top of his game for this start, but he got past some first-inning jitters to pitch a good game and keep the Braves off the board. Meanwhile, the Brewers offense was hitting the ball well all day but just couldn't translate it into many runs. They did score two in the fourth thanks to a walk from Jean Segura and consecutive hits by Ryan Braun and Aramis Ramirez. That would end up being enough as the bullpen kept the game scoreless and gave the Brewers the win.

In addition to the traditional recap, Noah also put together a recap of GIFs from the game. Also, Jordan went back through Gallardo's performance and evaluated how he did.

Ron Roenicke is already up to his usual tricks.

While yesterday's game went in the Brewers' favor, it wasn't without its share of surprises. The biggest one came in the ninth inning, when we expected to see Jim Henderson come out of the bullpen for the save. Instead, it was Francisco Rodriguez heading to the mound, shocking all Brewers fans. It ended up working out yesterday as Rodriguez worked around a hit to record the save. After the game, Ron Roenicke said that Rodriguez has the closer job for now while Henderson works to get his velocity up. Noah analyzed the decision, as well the Brewers track record with closers. Rodriguez's time in the closer role could be limited, or maybe Henderson won't get back there. Of course, it's only one game. Let's not overreact to one game.

Opening Day is special for everyone.

While that's probably not something we just learned yesterday, it's true. All baseball fans hold Opening Day as a very special day, each for their own reasons. Before the game yesterday, I took a minute to ask why Opening Day is special to us. There's no right answer to this question, it all depends on the individual. Whether it's the warm temperatures, the extended sunlight, the smell of brats grilling, the thrill of the first pitch, or anything else that can excite a fan, Opening Day is just a special experience.

Cram Session

Opening Day

Projections/Previews
Other Notes

Today's Action

The Brewers continue their opening home stand with game two against the Braves. Kyle Lohse will make his season debut and he will face Alex Wood for the Braves. First pitch is at 7:10 pm, and Joe Morgan of MLB.com has a preview for the game.