Jackson Chourio Hits 20th HR as Brewers Defeat Rangers 5-3

Jackson Chourio reached 20 home runs for the third consecutive season during the Milwaukee Brewers' 5-3 win against the Texas Rangers.

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio secured a 5-3 victory over the Texas Rangers on Saturday night by hitting his 20th home run of the season. The 22-year-old reached the milestone during Milwaukee’s fourth consecutive win, a result that maintained the team's position with the best record in the major leagues. This performance occurred on a promotional night where fans at American Family Field received cereal bowls featuring Chourio's name and likeness.

With this home run, Chourio became the 17th player in MLB history to record three 20-homer seasons before the age of 23. He joins a list of Hall of Famers including Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle, Eddie Mathews, Frank Robinson, and Orlando Cepeda. Within the Brewers franchise, he is only the second player to achieve this specific feat, following Ryan Braun, who did so from 2007 to 2009. The outfielder currently holds a .281 batting average, a .342 on-base percentage, and a .478 slugging percentage, all of which represent career-high marks.

Overcoming Early Season Injury

Chourio’s path to 20 home runs this year was delayed by a fractured bone in his left hand, sustained while playing for Venezuela in an exhibition game prior to the World Baseball Classic. Although he participated in the WBC and helped Venezuela secure the tournament title, the injury forced him onto the injured list for the start of the MLB season. He did not make his season debut until May 4. Despite the late start, he has maintained a high level of production, batting .362 with three home runs and seven RBIs over his last 11 games.

While he has reached the 20-homer threshold for the third straight year, the missed time may impact his ability to record a third consecutive 20-20 season. Chourio currently has 14 stolen bases, having previously surpassed 20 homers and 20 steals in both his first and second professional seasons. Manager Pat Murphy noted the outfielder's development, stating that his hands move "from A to B as quick as anybody."

Contract Value and Postseason Success

Milwaukee committed to Chourio in 2023 by signing him to an eight-year, $82 million contract when he was a 19-year-old who had not yet played in the major leagues. Since that signing, he has established himself as a core contributor, particularly in high-pressure situations. In 12 career postseason games, Chourio has maintained a .341 batting average, totaling four home runs and 11 RBIs. Through interpreter Daniel de Mondesert, Chourio expressed pride in being mentioned alongside legendary names, noting that those players serve as examples for his future career.

Venezuela Roots and Future Goals

Growing up in Venezuela, Chourio focused on playing the game rather than watching it, admitting he did not have a specific player he idolized as a child. His current focus remains on Milwaukee’s pursuit of the first World Series title in franchise history. "The dream is to win," Chourio stated following the Saturday night win. The Brewers continue their season as the top-seeded team in baseball, bolstered by Chourio’s recent offensive surge and his ability to thrive in October.