I, like many, misjudged the Brewers, however I’ll say I REALLY missed on their result.  However, as I mentioned in the Bucks catch-up, the Brewers completely shifted expectations to the point where, by not winning the World Series, possibly failed.  How so?  It’s hard to imagine having a better situation to win than hosting Game 7 of the NLCS with your Ace on the mound.

Now the Brewers are in a position, entering a season, where the fans’ expectations should be quite high.  This is newer territory, however the way this team is constructed, there should be real belief that this team should contend for another deep playoff run.

As I write this, there’s a few injuries that have flared up and putting the Brewers largest strength (bullpen) in handcuffs.  Shoulder soreness for Jeremy Jeffress and a torn UCL (elbow) for Corey Knebel—which means the pen management will even be more essential to the Brewers’ success in 2019.  The change the Brewers did make is adding Catcher Yasmani Grandal, whom will add quite a bit of pop to the lineup (24 HRs, 68 RBI), which may be even higher hitting in Miller Park vs pitcher-friendly Dodger Stadium.  All in all, if the Brewers have heavy contributions from Moose and Grandal to make up for whatever Yelich isn’t providing (is it possible to replicate his 2018 campaign?  Possibly) it’s very realistic to expect the Brewers to be the cream of the crop.

I believe the Brewers are every bit as good as last year, but their record may dip a bit as the NL Central has improved with the additions made by the Cardinals and Reds.

Prediction Time!

Brewers record: 92-70
Astros > Cubs