Early in the day, the Milwaukee Brewers thought they had a deal worked out with Cleveland that would send Jonathan Lucroy to the Indians for four players, including three prospects. Lucroy vetoed the deal and remained a Brewer, for now.
That activity off the field didn’t seem to bother the Brewers on the field. They knocked off Pittsburgh 4-2, sweeping the Pirates and capping off a 10-game home stand with a 7-3 record.
Lucroy could still find a new home today. The Major League trade deadline is 3 p.m. this afternoon.
Matt Garza worked five solid innings, allowing one earned run and four relievers combined to finish the deal.
Rookie Keon Broxton and first baseman Chris Carter clubbed home runs and Hernan Perez, Scooter Gennett and Martin Maldonado all added two hits each.
Lucroy did pinch hit for the Brewers in the 8th inning and flied out. He drew a huge ovation from the Milwaukee fans before the at bat. It may have been his last at bat as a member of the Brewers.
Jeremy Jeffress came on to nail down his 27th save in 28 opportunities. He was pitching in his fourth straight game, closing all four wins during the teams win streak.
Jeffress, along with fellow reliever Will Smith have also had their names included in trade discussion. They’ll all know by 3pm today whether or not they’ll remain with the Brewers or go help some other team improve their odds of making the playoffs.
The Brewers left for the west coast after the game. They’ll open a series against the San Diego Padres tonight.
AUDIO: Matt Garza can’t wait for his next start :17
AUDIO: Jonathan Lucroy on the Milwaukee fans :14