Brewers top Nationals 5-3 on Aug 1, 2025, powered by William Contreras's clutch homer. Milwaukee also lands catcher Danny Jansen in a big trade deadline deal.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
What a Friday for the Crew. Just as the trade deadline dust settled, the Brewers went out and proved why they're a team to fear, riding a clutch three-run blast from William Contreras to a 5-3 victory over the Nationals. It was a day of big moves and big moments, sending a clear message to the rest of the league: Milwaukee is built for a deep October run.
Danny brings veteran leadership and playoff experience to our clubhouse.
The game was deadlocked at 2-2 in the sixth inning when William 'Wild Bill' Contreras stepped to the plate and did what he does best: change the game with one swing. He launched a decisive three-run homer that sent American Family Field into a frenzy. The blast was all the support Wade Miley needed, as the veteran lefty turned in a gem, pitching 6.1 innings of two-run ball while striking out six. Christian Yelich chipped in with two hits and a stolen base, and Devin Williams slammed the door for his 27th save. After the game, Contreras took to Instagram to share the celebration with fans, proving once again he's the heart and soul of this team.
The on-field excitement was matched by a major move from the front office. The Brewers finalized a trade to acquire catcher Danny Jansen from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for minor league pitcher Carlos Rodriguez and cash. Jansen is a significant addition, a veteran known for his power and game-calling, who will form a formidable catching duo with Contreras. To make room, Eric Haase was designated for assignment. President of Baseball Operations Matt Arnold praised the move, emphasizing the value of Jansen's postseason experience for a team with championship aspirations.
The day wasn't without its tough news. Rookie sensation Jackson Chourio was placed on the 10-day injured list with a hamstring strain he suffered in Thursday's game. Manager Pat Murphy stressed the need for caution with the young star, who has already racked up 14 homers and 19 stolen bases. While losing Chourio for at least two weeks is a blow, the team recalled the speedy Brandon Lockridge from Triple-A Nashville to fill the roster spot.
Despite the Chourio injury, the big picture for the Brewers is incredibly bright. The team has posted an incredible 'Summer Score' of 74 since June 21, making them one of the hottest clubs in all of baseball with a 17-7 record since July 1. And the good times are built to last. Even with Chourio graduating, the Brewers' farm system has surged into MLB's top 10, boosted by infield depth and exciting international talent like 17-year-old Luis Rodriguez. Fans will get a chance to see that future talent up close on August 15 for the just-announced 'Brew Crew Futures Night,' a celebration of the next wave of Brewers stars.
Friday was a microcosm of the 2025 Brewers: resilient, powerful, and strategically aggressive. They won a tough game, weathered an injury to a key player, and simultaneously improved their roster for the stretch run. With a new veteran leader in the clubhouse and a farm system churning out talent, the Brewers are not just leading the NL Central—they're positioning themselves as a legitimate World Series contender. This team is hot, deep, and ready for the battles ahead.
