Tue Oct 07 01:40:00 UTC 2025: **News Article Summary:**
**Cubs’ Counsell’s Gamble Backfires: Brewers Crush Chicago in Game 1**
Milwaukee Brewers dominated the Chicago Cubs in Game 1 of the National League Division Series with a decisive 9-3 victory. The Brewers capitalized on a questionable pitching decision by Cubs manager Craig Counsell, who started Matthew Boyd on short rest. The Brewers’ offense exploded early, highlighted by Jackson Chourio’s historic three hits in the first two innings. The Cubs now face immense pressure to rebound in Game 2. Counsell, already a target for Brewers fans after leaving Milwaukee for Chicago, faces increased scrutiny after his risky pitching choice led to a disastrous start for the Cubs.
**Rewritten News Article:**
**Brewers Humble Cubs in Game 1, Counsell’s Gamble Blasted**
MILWAUKEE – The Milwaukee Brewers delivered a resounding blow to the Chicago Cubs in Game 1 of the National League Division Series, crushing their rivals 9-3. The victory was fueled by an explosive offensive performance and compounded by a controversial pitching decision by Cubs manager Craig Counsell, formerly of the Brewers.
Counsell’s decision to start Matthew Boyd on just three days’ rest immediately backfired. Brewers hitters pounced, with rookie Jackson Chourio making postseason history by recording three hits in the first two innings. By the time Boyd was pulled in the first, the Cubs were already trailing significantly.
“We picked Matt Boyd to pitch,” said a terse Counsell after the game. “He pitched, it didn’t go well.”
The Brewers’ offensive onslaught didn’t stop with Chourio. The team racked up nine hits and three walks in the first two innings, showcasing their aggressive approach. The Cubs managed a solo home run early but were largely silenced by the Brewers’ pitching and defense.
The loss puts immense pressure on the Cubs as they head into Game 2. Counsell, who has already been facing boos from Brewers fans since joining the Cubs, will likely face increased scrutiny for his pitching strategy.
“The beauty of this time of year is one loss counts as one loss,” said Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson, attempting to downplay the significance of the defeat.
The Brewers, despite their regular-season success, have a history of playoff struggles. However, their dominant performance in Game 1 sends a strong message to the rest of the league. The Cubs must now regroup and find a way to even the series or risk an early exit from the playoffs.
First Piper 