Brewer Daily News for April 21st: Ramirez close, Brewers’ streak continues

Good morning everyone and welcome to the Sunday edition of Brewer Daily News. Third baseman Aramis Ramirez looks like he might be back during the next homestand. In the second bit of news, the Brewers (8-8) continued their winning streak by beating the Cubs (5-11) last night.

Aramis Ramirez has remained positive while battling a left knee sprain . Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Since re-injuring his left knee, Ramirez has been able to take his recovery step-by-step. Ramirez is targeting the Brewers’ next homestand as his possible return off of the disabled list.

"“That’s what I’m shooting for,” Ramirez said. “I don’t know if it will be in the Pirates series, that may be pushing it. But next homestand. That’s what I’m looking at. I’m making strides.” – via Brewers.com"

In his absence, a combination of Alex Gonzalez and Yuniesky Betancourt have platooned at third. Betancourt in particular has been on fire with his bat lately and will look to continue to play that way from the bench with Taylor Green now missing the entire season due to his hip.

Last night the Brewers beat the Cubs 5-1, extending their win streak to six. Hiram Burgos started for the Brew Crew in his major league debut. Burgos pitched five innings and gave up one run, five hits and struck out one while getting his first win. The bullpen would pitch four innings of shutout relief and gave up only two hits.

Jonathan Lucroy got the Milwaukee offense going with a solo home run in the 2nd inning. In the 5th, the Brewers capitalized on errors by the Cubs, giving the team a 3-1 lead. In the 6th, Ryan Braun scored after Logan Schafer hit a sacrifice to the pitcher and Lucroy scored off of a Martin Maldonado single.

This afternoon the Brewers will go for the sweep against the Cubs at 2:10 p.m. ET / 1:10 p.m. CT. The starters will be Wily Peralta (0-1, 6.19 ERA) for Milwaukee and Scott Feldman (0-2, 6.00 ERA) for Chicago.