Jackson Chourio World Series Game 1 turned into a showcase for the 22-year-old Brewers outfielder, and two of the game’s most decorated voices took notice. Chourio went 2-for-4 with a run and an RBI as Milwaukee edged Tampa Bay 3-2 on Friday night at American Family Field.
A first-pitch strike that shifted the game
With two outs in the seventh inning, Chourio stepped in against Rays reliever Kevin Kelly and swung at the first pitch. The result was an RBI single that pushed the Brewers’ lead to two runs. It was the kind of quick-strike moment that defined his night and helped Milwaukee secure a 1-0 series advantage.
The Rays made things uncomfortable in the ninth, scoring once after an overturned double play. But the Brewers held on, and Chourio’s earlier contribution proved decisive.
Jeter: Chourio stands out even without sound
Derek Jeter, a five-time World Series champion, offered a distinctive lens on Chourio’s game. He said Chourio stands out when watching the game on mute — a comment that speaks to the young player’s visible energy and impact on the field.
Ortiz sees fearlessness and aggression
David Ortiz, a three-time World Series winner, was more direct. He described Chourio as fearless and aggressive, noting that the outfielder swings freely without guessing at pitch types. Ortiz added that Chourio makes things happen and hits for both average and power. For a 22-year-old, that combination is already drawing attention from the sport’s biggest names.
Ortiz also emphasized Chourio’s youth, pointing out that he keeps improving. The praise from two former stars carried weight after a Game 1 in which Chourio’s bat helped set the tone.
Postseason records already in hand
Chourio’s Game 1 performance added to a postseason résumé that is already historic for Milwaukee. He is the Brewers’ all-time postseason home run leader and their all-time postseason RBI leader. Those records, achieved at 22, underscore how quickly he has become a central figure in the team’s October push.
Milwaukee is seeking its first World Series title, and Chourio’s strong postseason form has been a key part of that pursuit. His ability to deliver in high-leverage moments — like the seventh-inning single on Friday — has given the Brewers a reliable offensive threat.
What's next
Game 2 is scheduled for Saturday at American Family Field, with the Brewers holding a 1-0 series lead. The series will later shift to Tropicana Field. For now, Chourio’s Game 1 performance and the praise from Jeter and Ortiz have made him a central story line of this World Series.
