Jacob Misiorowski shines in his MLB debut, but the Brewers fall to the Cardinals 5-3 on June 12, 2025. Read how the rookie's electric start wasn't enough.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a night of conflicting emotions at American Family Field. On one hand, the future arrived in the form of flamethrowing rookie Jacob Misiorowski, who gave Brewers fans a tantalizing glimpse of what's to come. On the other, the present reality of a struggling offense reared its head again, as the Crew dropped a crucial divisional game to the St. Louis Cardinals, 5-3, falling to 35-33 on the season.
'He showed why he's special. The stuff plays at this level, and he didn't back down from a tough Cardinals lineup.' - Manager Pat Murphy on Jacob Misiorowski's debut.
All eyes were on Jacob Misiorowski, and the top prospect did not disappoint. Taking the mound for his first-ever MLB start, the right-hander showcased the electric stuff that made him one of the most hyped arms in the minors. Over 4.2 innings, he punched out seven Cardinals, frequently overpowering them with his high-velocity fastball. While he was tagged for four runs (three earned) on six hits, the poise and raw talent were undeniable. The Brewers' social media was buzzing with highlights, celebrating his first big-league strikeout and a debut that lived up to the billing.
While Misiorowski provided the spark, the Brewers' lineup couldn't ignite a rally. The offense managed just a handful of key hits against Cardinals starter Sonny Gray. William Contreras continued his stellar season, going 2-for-4 and collecting his team-leading 40th RBI with a double. Brice Turang added a solo shot in the sixth to keep things close. But the story of the night was missed opportunities, culminating in a dramatic ninth inning where the Brewers loaded the bases with two outs, only for closer Ryan Helsley to strike out Rhys Hoskins and slam the door.
The offensive struggles were compounded by the absence of Christian Yelich, who missed his third straight game with a swollen right wrist. Manager Pat Murphy described the star outfielder as 'day-to-day,' but his presence is clearly missed in the heart of the order. To make room for Misiorowski's promotion from Triple-A Nashville, the team optioned reliever Elvis Peguero, a move that underscores the organization's immediate focus on bolstering its starting pitching depth.
Even in a loss, the night felt like a net positive for the Crew's future. Misiorowski's debut is a sign of the talent brewing in the system. And he's not alone. Down in Double-A Biloxi, shortstop prospect Edgardo Made is putting on a show. The No. 55 prospect in all of baseball is hitting .312 after another multi-hit performance Wednesday, showcasing a blend of power and speed that has the player development staff buzzing. Between Misiorowski's arm and Made's bat, the next wave of Brewers talent is getting closer.
Tonight's loss stings, especially against a division rival. But years from now, June 12, 2025, might be remembered as the night a new ace arrived in Milwaukee. The challenge now is for the current lineup to find its footing, get healthy, and provide the run support needed to turn these electrifying pitching performances into wins. The pieces are there, but as the ninth inning proved, potential needs to translate into production.
