Quinn Priester Starts for Brewers in Game 3 vs. Cubs Today

UPDATE: In a thrilling matchup, Cary-Grove graduate Quinn Priester is set to take the mound for the Milwaukee Brewers today at 4:08 PM against the Chicago Cubs in Game 3 of the National League Division Series (NLDS). This pivotal game will be broadcast nationally on TBS, as the Brewers aim to close out the best-of-five series, leading 2-0.

This is a momentous occasion for Priester, who grew up cheering for the Cubs and even celebrated with fans at Wrigley Field during the 2016 World Series. As the 6-foot-3, 210-pound right-hander prepares for his playoff debut, a crowd of supportive fans, now converted from Cubs to Brewers, is expected to rally behind him.

Priester’s start comes after a strategic play by the Brewers in Game 2, where he warmed up as a decoy alongside Aaron Ashby, a tactic that proved effective for manager Pat Murphy. According to MLB.com reporter Adam McCalvy, Priester’s warm-up was part of a strategy to keep the Cubs guessing, potentially impacting their game plan.

“If this is going to help us 1%, or help us on one at-bat or one pitch, why not?” Priester said, reflecting on the team’s strategic approach.

Earlier this season, Priester faced the Cubs on multiple occasions, including a tough outing on May 2 where he allowed seven runs in a 10-0 loss. However, he rebounded well during subsequent starts, showcasing his growth as a pitcher. In a July 29 game, he went 5⅔ innings, yielding only two runs and contributing to a 9-3 victory. His August 21 start at Wrigley Field further solidified his prowess, as he allowed just one run over 4⅓ innings in a decisive 4-1 win.

Ending the regular season with an impressive 13-3 record and a 3.32 ERA, Priester has been a key factor in the Brewers winning the NL Central Division title with a remarkable 97-65 record, outpacing the Cubs by five games. With Priester on the mound, the Brewers boast a franchise-record 19-game winning streak in games he pitched, prior to a recent loss against the Reds.

Priester attributes his success to the supportive environment and coaching staff in Milwaukee. “We love what you do. We just want to help you to focus it and hone it a little bit,” he explained, highlighting the collaborative effort with pitching coach Chris Hook and assistant coach Jim Henderson.

As the Brewers prepare for this crucial game, all eyes will be on Priester. Will he deliver a stellar performance against his childhood team and lead Milwaukee to the next round? Fans are eager to find out, and with the stakes high, today’s game promises to be a thrilling encounter.

Stay tuned for live updates as the action unfolds at Wrigley Field!