Willson Contreras Frustrated with Frequent Hit-by-Pitches from Brewers
Willson Contreras has expressed frustration over the frequent hit-by-pitches he has faced from the Milwaukee Brewers. His career includes 121 games against the Brewers, where he has been hit by a pitch 23 times. This constitutes over 17% of all 131 times he has been plunked throughout his 11-season career.
Latest Incident Against the Brewers
The most recent occurrence came during a game in Boston, when Contreras, now playing for the Red Sox, faced Brewers pitcher Brandon Woodruff. In the third inning, a 93-mph sinker hit Contreras on the knuckles. Despite a video review initiated by Brewers manager Pat Murphy, it was clear that the contact, albeit slight, was uncomfortable for Contreras. He reacted angrily, shouting at Woodruff as he made his way to first base.
Contreras and Woodruff: A Complicated History
- Contreras and Woodruff have faced each other 29 times.
- Six of those encounters resulted in a hit-by-pitch.
Statcast data indicates that Contreras is particularly vulnerable to pitches located inside and high in the strike zone. Although stats suggest a higher frequency of pitches down and away, pitching inside poses risks for pitchers, as errant throws can result in hit batters.
Brewers’ Strategy and Its Consequences
The Brewers’ pitching strategy regarding Contreras raises questions. Ideally, they should exploit his weaknesses by pitching him high and inside. However, the frequent hit-by-pitches have clearly upset Contreras, who has vowed retaliation should they continue. After the game, he stated, “Next time they hit me again, I’m going to take one of them out. That’s a message.”
Reactions from the Teams
Contreras’ aggressive play extended beyond just his interactions with Woodruff. After being hit, he slid into home plate hard, causing disruption in the Brewers’ defense. Contreras’ actions did not go unnoticed, prompting reactions from teammates and players alike.
Brewer outfielder Christian Yelich commented that this cycle of events is nothing new. William Contreras, Willson’s brother, attempted to calm him down after the incident, but recognized the competitive nature of his sibling.
Looking Ahead
With two more games scheduled for the week, tensions might continue to escalate. The Red Sox are currently struggling, sitting at the bottom of the league with a 2-8 record. Willson Contreras remains a pivotal player as the teams face off again, with the hope that the competition does not escalate into further conflicts.
