Jacob Misiorowski: A New Era Begins for the Brewers
MILWAUKEE – All eyes will be on American Family Field as the Milwaukee Brewers host the Chicago White Sox on Opening Day, featuring a compelling matchup between former Minor League teammates, Jacob Misiorowski and Shane Smith. This game isn’t just about starting the season; it’s a story of paths crossed, opportunities seized, and a new generation of talent taking center stage.
From Teammates to Opponents: The Misiorowski-Smith Connection
The connection between Misiorowski and Smith dates back to their time in the Brewers’ organization. Smith joined Milwaukee as an undrafted free agent in 2021, recovering from Tommy John surgery. Misiorowski followed in 2022 as a second-round pick. They shared the field at Single-A Carolina and High-A Wisconsin in 2023, and later at Double-A Biloxi and Triple-A Nashville in 2024. A surprising turn of events saw the Brewers leave Smith unprotected that winter, allowing the White Sox to claim him in the Rule 5 Draft. Interestingly, the two even shared the mound in a game on July 15, 2023, with Misiorowski starting and Smith earning a hold in a 6-3 Wisconsin victory.
“He was an awesome teammate,” Misiorowski shared, reflecting on their time together. “What I remember most is being in Double-A, where everyone is working hard to advance. But he always brought a positive energy to the clubhouse and was a great guy to be around.”
A History of Rivalry: Brewers vs. White Sox
The Brewers and White Sox share a rich history, dating back to a near-sale in 1969 that ultimately fell through. When the Brewers finally secured a franchise in 1970, a sometimes-heated rivalry was born, including four Opening Day clashes. The last time these teams opened a season against each other was in 1995, a decisive 12-3 Brewers win fueled by a first-inning grand slam from John Jaha.
How to Watch the Game
White Sox Fans: Catch the action on Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) and the CHSN app, with commentary from John Schriffen and Steve Stone. Radio coverage will be provided by ESPN Chicago (AM-1000/FM-100.3 HD2) with Len Kasper and Darrin Jackson.
Brewers Fans: This is a landmark Opening Day for Brewers.TV, with MLB taking over production and distribution. Fans can subscribe to a streaming package or continue watching through cable or satellite providers. The game will also be broadcast over-the-air on stations across Wisconsin, including WITI-TV (FOX6) in Milwaukee. Jeff Levering and Bill Schroeder will call the game, with Sophia Minnaert reporting from the sidelines. Out-of-market fans can access the game live or on demand via MLB.TV (subject to blackouts). A full list of available games can be found here.
Pitching Matchup: Misiorowski vs. Smith
Shane Smith (White Sox): Despite a Spring Training marked by control issues (9 walks, 5 hit batters in 10 2/3 innings), Smith is ready to make his mark. The right-hander’s journey from an undrafted free agent signee with the Brewers to a 2025 All-Star and now facing his former team is a testament to his resilience and talent.
Jacob Misiorowski (Brewers): Manager Pat Murphy has playfully dubbed Misiorowski “our Forrest Gump,” and the nickname fits. Misiorowski’s 2025 season was a whirlwind, going from prospect to rookie sensation to the fastest MLB All-Star in history, experiencing a temporary setback before re-emerging as a dominant bullpen force. The Brewers are hoping for a more consistent performance from their young ace in 2026, as he leads a promising group of starting pitchers.
Projected Starting Lineups
White Sox:
- Andrew Benintendi (L), LF
- Chase Meidroth, 2B
- Colson Montgomery (L), SS
- Munetaka Murakami (L), 1B
- Miguel Vargas, 3B
- Austin Hays, RF
- Lenyn Sosa, DH
- Edgar Quero (S), C
- Luisangel Acuña, CF
Brewers:
- Jackson Chourio, LF
- Brice Turang (L), 2B
- William Contreras, C
- Christian Yelich (L), DH
- Luis Rengifo, 3B
- Sal Frelick (L), RF
- Jake Bauers (L), 1B
- Garrett Mitchell (L) or Brandon Lockridge, CF
- Joey Ortiz, SS
Bullpen Outlook
The White Sox boast a strengthened bullpen led by closer Seranthony Domínguez, supported by Sean Newcomb, Grant Taylor, Jordan Leasure, and Jordan Hicks. The Brewers will rely heavily on their bullpen, with Trevor Megill expected to resume closer duties after an All-Star season cut short by injury. Abner Uribe, Angel Zerpa, and Jared Koenig will also play key roles, while Aaron Ashby provides a durable long-relief option.
Injury Updates
The White Sox will be without catcher Kyle Teel (hamstring strain) for 4-6 weeks. Right-hander Mike Vasil will undergo Tommy John surgery, and Brooks Baldwin is sidelined with an elbow injury. The Brewers will miss right-hander Quinn Priester due to symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome, with a potential return in late April or early May.
Players to Watch
For the White Sox, all eyes are on Shane Smith to improve his command. Luisangel Acuña is also generating excitement with his potential in center field. On the Brewers side, the focus is on Jacob Misiorowski’s consistency and the performance of Garrett Mitchell after his shoulder surgery.
Opening Day is here, and the excitement is palpable. With a compelling pitching matchup, a history of rivalry, and a new generation of stars ready to shine, this game promises to be a thrilling start to the 2026 MLB season.
