The Cubs vs. Brewers NLDS Game 4 was a rollercoaster, but let's be honest, the real story here was Freddy Peralta's unraveling against Ian Happ. We've all seen pitchers have bad days, but this one was particularly brutal.
The Dominating Performance of Ian Happ
Happ's three-run homer off Freddy Peralta in the first inning of Game 4 wasn't just a highlight-moment for the Cubs—it was a game-changer. Happ, who had a 2-32 record with a homer and 2 RBIs in 38 plate appearances against Freddy Peralta, showcased his clutch hitting skills when it mattered most. This homer was such a gut punch for the Brewers and a bold statement from Happ. The Cubs, who were down 2-0 in the series and suddenly in a must-win situation, were in dire need of a jolt. Happ delivered it in the first inning.
And then — get this — Happ's ability to change the game's momentum went beyond that single home run. He managed to keep the pressure on Freddy Peralta and keep the Cubs in control of the game. Look, Happ might not be an everyday superstar, but when he steps up to the plate, he's got the ability to make an impact.
Freddy Peralta: The Brewers' Achilles Heel
The Brewers’ ace, Freddy Peralta, has been a reliable starter for the team, but this game showcased a different side of him. Peralta started the game strong, but Happ's homer set the tone for a rough outing. Peralta, who has a solid career against the Cubs, couldn't find his footing against Happ. Freddy Peralta allowed a three-run moonshot to Ian Happ to begin the game and only managed to complete four innings. And then, to make matters worse, the bullpen had to carry an extra load after Freddy Peralta’s early exit.
Here’s the thing: Peralta's struggles against Happ aren’t new. Happ has a knack for getting under Peralta’s skin, making his pitches less precise and his decisions more off. If you're a Cubs fan, you might be wondering, "Is this the beginning of the end for Freddy Peralta in the NLDS?" It's a valid question, especially given his recent performance.
What Happens Next for the Cubs and Brewers
Now, with Game 5 on the horizon, the Brewers are in a tight spot. The team’s morale might be shaky, and Freddy Peralta's confidence might be rattled. Meanwhile, the Cubs have found a newfound energy, fueled by Happ's performance. The Cubs are now poised to take the series, and Happ's hit is a testament to the Cubs' resilience. And while the Brewers have a formidable bullpen, the same can't be said for Freddy Peralta, who has struggled in crucial moments.
If you're a Cubs fan, you're probably thinking, "Can they keep the momentum going?" If you're a Brewers fan, you might be wondering, "How can Freddy Peralta bounce back from this?" Look, if there's one thing we can be sure of, it's that the Cubs' confidence will be high, and they will be breathing down the Brewers' necks.
“Peralta’s struggles against Happ are well-documented, but this was a new low. The Cubs are riding a high after this win, and the Brewers are facing a critical juncture,” said a team analyst.
Right now, the big question is, how will Freddy Peralta respond? Will he be able to shake off the bad performance and come back stronger in the next game? Or will the Cubs continue to capitalize on his weaknesses? Either way, it’s clear that the Cubs are in the driver’s seat.
