Friday wasn’t just another day at the ballpark; it was a huge milestone of celebration that brought players both past and present to celebrate the 25th anniversary of American Family Field.
Alumni Festivities
An hour before the Brewers and Marlins game began, fans young and old lined up throughout the stadium for an opportunity to receive an autograph from Brewers Alumni Ryan Braun and Corey Hart. The atmosphere was bursting with excitement as fans with t-shirts, baseballs, and headshots were ready to have them signed. Braun described the experience as “incredible,” noting how the packed ballpark and the energy from fans made the event feel like it was a big deal to the community.
Sellout Ballpark and Brewer Game
Fans with Brewers jerseys of current stars and retired legends filled the stadium, enjoying the event and ball game while eating ice cream, hot dogs, and even drinking an ice-cold beverage on a hot day. Before the first pitch, the crowd was on their feet and gave a warm welcome as former Wisconsin Native and retired NFL superstar J.J. Watt walked on the field and delivered a ceremonial pitch. Following Watt’s pitch, fans stayed on their feet as the Brewers paid tribute to the former alumni superstars whose legacies will forever live on in Milwaukee. Among those honored were 2011 National League MVP Ryan Braun who also holds the franchise all-time record with 352 home runs, two-time MLB All-Star outfielder Carlos Gomez and former pitcher Randy Wolf, former outfielder and first baseman Eric Thames, and more. The standing ovation for these ballplayers was heartfelt, loud, and well-deserved.
Milwaukee Brewers vs. Miami Marlins
As the Brewers game got underway, Brewers pitcher and two-time All-Star Freddy Peralta had pitched a total of 5 innings, allowing one run, five hits, two walks, and striking out nine while giving up a solo homerun. Drama had unfolded early in the first inning when Marlins designated hitter, Agustin Ramirez, believed his ball had hit the wall for a home run, but Brewers manager Pat Murphy challenged the call. After the review, the umpires ruled it was not a home run and the runner was sent back to second base. Tensions flared again when Brewers right fielder Jackson Chourio believed he was expected to walk, but the umpire called a strike three for swinging at the pitch after Chourio claimed he was hit by a ball after a 3-1 pitch. However, that didn’t stop Chourio as he brought his frustration back on the field during the fourth inning with a solo homerun, putting Milwaukee on the board. The Marlins responded in the seventh inning as they had back-to-back hits, stolen bases, and a few home runs. The Brewers walked out as they fell 5 to 1.
Alumni Home Run Derby
Despite a tough loss to the Marlins, the Brewers and fans kept the energy alive as everyone was getting ready for the Alumni Home Run Derby. Former Brewers superstars returned to the diamond not only to compete against each other but also to have fun. Ryan Braun and Carlos Gomez were team captains as they drafted their teams. Each player was timed to hit as many home runs as possible with fans cheering every swing. In the end, it was former Brewers outfielder Keon Broxton defeating former Brewers infielder/outfielder Corey Hart. The stadium was filled with cheer and wonderful memories in Milwaukee.
