Gallardo Ends Skid in True Ace Fashion

For the second time this season Yovani Gallardo took the mound and acted as a true ace. On a day when Justin Verlander threw the second no-hitter of his career, Gallardo took his own into the eighth inning vs the Cardinals and ended the Brewers losing streak at seven games. All told he threw 118 pitches over eight scoreless innings, allowing one hit and four walks with six strikeouts. Backed by strong performances by Casey McGehee (3-4, 2 2B, 1 RBI) and Carlos Gomez (2-3, 2B, 3B, BB, 2 RBI), Gallardo pitched brilliantly, his only hit a weak ground ball up the middle by Daniel Descalso (???) that barely slipped past a diving Craig Counsell.

Ron Roenicke prohibited the team from hitting batting practice and shook up his lineup in an attempt to spur the Brewers' slumbering offense. Meanwhile Gallardo, looking to break free from his recent struggles on the mound, wore Marco Estrada's pants so he could hitch them at the knee. This weekend's games against the Cardinals are about as must-win as games in early May can get, and after last night's blowout the Brewers needed to bring it today.

Hopefully this game marks a turning point for Gallardo and the Brewers, as well as Carlos Gomez who really has looked better at the plate this season, even if the results haven't shown it. Aside from Gallardo, Gomez was the star of the game both at the plate and on defense. Check out this first inning leaping catch. The teams play again tomorrow at 1:15 before the Crew returns home to host the Padres and Pirates. A series victory would send the Brewers home on a high note after another rough road trip (and set the tone for the week ahead?).