Milwaukee Brewers’ Andruw Monasterio receives support after costly 9th inning blunder

Following the contest, Murphy talked on Monasterio’s decision to try and get into scoring position as opposed to play it safe with a single. “I just respect the aggression.” Murphy said, “The kid (Gurriel) made a great play. It might have changed the game, but that’s the way it goes. When you force that guy to make that play, Gurriel has the arm strength, and he was sprinting. I think Mona saw him sprinting to the ball there, and once he saw him that way, that’s going to be a tough play to come up and throw it. So credit to Gurriel for making a great throw. Yeah, Mona made an early decision and went with it. Guys make aggressive moves like that and they’re out, that’s going to happen. S, it’s unfortunate, but I support it.”

That aggressive baserunning decision, while costly in the moment, is exactly the kind of mentality Murphy has preached all season, playing with their foot on the gas. He’s consistently emphasized applying pressure and staying fearless, even if it means taking risks. Moments like this reflect the identity Murphy wants for his club: one that isn’t afraid to push the envelope in pursuit of a win.

Andruw Monasterio has filled in beautifully for Joey Ortiz

With normal everyday shortstop Joey Ortiz down with a hamstring strain, Monasterio has been filling in during his absence. He has gone 8-21 over the six games he’s started since Ortiz went on the IL, that includes three doubles and one home run. Additionally, Monasterio has played great defensively, that included a game altering defensive play against the Diamondbacks on Tuesday night when he made an out from his knees in the ninth inning.

All things considered Monasterio deserves recognition, not criticism, for how he’s stepped up in Ortiz’s absence. His contributions at the plate and in the field have been impactful, and his performance over the past week has helped stabilize the infield during a key stretch of the season. Mistakes happen, especially when playing hard, but Monasterio’s overall play has more than earned him praise.