Chicago Cubs at Milwaukee Brewers weekend preview

The Cubs and Brewers both have received mixed results from their bullpens to start the season. On Opening Day, the Cubs’ bullpen allowed three runs in 3.2 IP; the next game, they allowed no runs in 3.0 IP.

Similarly, the Brewers’ bullpen allowed five runs in 6.0 IP in their first game only to allow no runs in 4.2 IP the next game. Both teams have a new veteran closer anchoring their relief corps. The Cubs acquired Davis from the Kansas City Royals, while the Brewers signed Neftalí Feliz, formerly of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Although the Brewers went 73-89 last season, their bullpen had a similar ERA as the 103-58 Cubs. Milwaukee’s relievers collectively had a 3.61 ERA, while the Cubs’ relievers had a 3.56 ERA. If the start of the season is a sign of things to come, the teams may have similar numbers again.

In addition to this similarity, the Cubs and Brewers each have a reliever capable of starting as well. Milone will start for the Brewers on Saturday after appearing as a reliever on Monday. On the other hand, the Cubs have Mike Montgomery, who appeared in 49 games last season (seven starts) with the Mariners and Cubs.