Milwaukee Brewers
American Family Field
Wisconsin, United States
The Milwaukee Brewers were originally known as the Seattle Pilots, playing in the American League in 1969. However, due to financial difficulties, the team relocated to Milwaukee in 1970, becoming the Brewers. Interestingly, the Brewers are the only MLB team to have played in four different divisions since the advent of divisional play in 1969.
The Brewers have had a roller-coaster history. Along with the San Diego Padres, they are the oldest MLB team to have never won a World Series, holding the second-longest active championship drought behind the Cleveland Guardians. Things began to look up in 1981 when Rollie Fingers earned the Brewers’ first Cy Young Award and the Major League Baseball Most Valuable Player Award. In 1982, under the leadership of manager Harvey Kuenn, the team earned the nickname "Harvey's Wallbangers" thanks to their powerful lineup, which propelled them to their first World Series appearance, though they ultimately fell short of the title.
The Brewers have been home to several notable players, including: Rollie Fingers, known for his iconic handlebar mustache and stellar pitching; Robin Yount, a two-time American League MVP and arguably the greatest Brewer of all time; Paul Molitor and Cecil Cooper, who both played pivotal roles during the Brewers’ successful 1980s run. In more recent years, Ryan Braun, the 2011 NL MVP, became a key figure when the Brewers reached the National League Championship Series (NLCS). Christian Yelich, the 2018 NL MVP, has also been instrumental in leading the franchise into playoff contention.
The Brewers have called American Family Field home since 2001. The ballpark is famous for its retractable roof, ensuring that games are played rain or shine. It’s also home to the beloved Bernie Brewer slide, where the team’s mascot, Bernie Brewer, takes a celebratory plunge whenever the Brewers hit a home run or win a game. One of the most unique traditions at American Family Field is the Sausage Race, where costumed characters representing various sausages—Bratwurst, Polish, Italian, Hot Dog, and Chorizo—race around the field, adding a quirky and beloved element to the Brewers' game-day experience.
After the Sausage Race finishes, it’s time for the real battle to begin. The Brewers share a fierce rivalry with the Chicago Cubs, intensified by the proximity of the two cities. Additionally, the St. Louis Cardinals are a significant rival due to regular NL Central Division battles that have fueled competitive tension.