Brewers Closer Out With Soreness

Brewers' Blake Perkins: On the Bench for Game 1

Brewers' Closer Out With Soreness

Blake Perkins, the Milwaukee Brewers' closer, will not be available for Game 1 of the National League Division Series against the Atlanta Braves due to soreness in his right arm, manager Craig Counsell announced on Tuesday. Counsell said Perkins has been dealing with the soreness for "a couple days" and that he will be re-evaluated on Wednesday.

Perkins Has Been a Key Part of the Brewers' Bullpen

Perkins has been a key part of the Brewers' bullpen this season, posting a 2.81 ERA with 30 saves in 64 appearances. He has been particularly effective in the second half, allowing just one earned run in his last 19 appearances.

With Perkins out, the Brewers will likely turn to Josh Hader to close out games in the NLDS. Hader has been one of the best relievers in baseball this season, posting a 1.23 ERA with 34 saves in 59 appearances.

Brewers Are Confident in Hader

Counsell said he is confident in Hader's ability to close out games in Perkins' absence. "I think everybody knows that Josh is one of the best relievers in the game," Counsell said.

The Brewers will open the NLDS at home on Tuesday night. Game 1 is scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. CT.