Milwaukee Brewers: Corey Knebel named NL Reliever of the Month

Milwaukee Brewers Closer Corey Knebel was named National League Reliever Of the Month on Sunday. The All Star closer has been great for the Brewers of late, and he is now getting the recognition he deserves.

In the month of August, Corey Knebel earned a franchise record with 13 saves. He did this while not giving up a single run. He also racked up 21 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings pitched. Knebel allowed only five walks during the month, which is a positive knowing that Knebel has struggled with control.

Knebel’s curveball looked as good as eve in August. His curve is the pitch he needs for continued success. Knebel’s fastball is hard, but that can’t be his only option for getting hitters out. His location with both of those pitches is what have made him so successful this month

In the year of the up and down Milwaukee Brewers bullpen, Corey Knebel has been the most steady of all. Like any pitcher, Knebel has had his days where he doesn’t get it done. However, for all Knebel has done for the Brewers this year, fans can only be thankful that he took over the closer’s role.

Overall on the season, Knebel has 32 saves, 109 strikeouts, and nine total earned runs in 64 2/3 innings pitched. Those are high-level numbers from a guy who wasn’t the closer when the season started.

As far as the month of August, the Brewers as a team went 15-12. That’s their best record in any month of the season. Knebel’s success has been a huge part of it. With the offense still not going off like they were in the first half, Knebel has had to pitch a lot due to the close games. He has done everything the Milwaukee Brewers have needed and more.

How important is Knebel for the stretch run?

For a team in a playoff push, having a reliable relief pitcher like Knebel is huge for the team’s confidence. If the Milwaukee Brewers get the lead to the ninth for Knebel, they have a great chance of winning. This prevents them from pushing other pitchers too far, and blowing the lead before Knebel has a chance.

Next: Can the Brewers land Shohei Otani?

The Milwaukee Brewers go into the September playoff hunt, and look to either win the division. Corey Knebel will look to continue his All-Star season, and carry the team into the promise land.