Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Robert Gasser (54) throws during the first inning against the Atlanta Braves, Sunday, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Erik Rank)

ATLANTA (AP) — When Milwaukee scored eight runs in the second inning of Sunday’s game at Atlanta, Robert Gasser’s path to his first win since 2024 seemed clear.

When the left-hander had thrown 66 pitches through only three innings, it seemed far less certain Gasser would remain in the game long enough to qualify for the win.

Brewers manager Pat Murphy believed it was time to give Gasser a strong pep talk.

“We challenged him and he took it well, he did a good job,” Murphy said after Gasser gave up two runs in six innings in the 9-4 win over the Braves. Gasser’s outing was crucial as the Brewers salvaged one win in the three-game series.

Gasser (1-3) earned his first win since May 15, 2024, against Pittsburgh.

“It’s awesome,” Gasser said. “It’s obviously great to have the win next to your name, but just to help the team get a win at the back end of the series is huge.”

Gasser allowed four hits and one walk. His seven strikeouts and six innings matched career highs.

Gasser, 27, had not completed six innings in any of his first five starts this season. He was aware his pitch count was too high early in the game.

“There were some really long at-bats in there, especially the first two innings,” Gasser said. “And I looked up and saw 50 pitches and I knew we had to figure out how to get some outs quicker.”

After giving up a leadoff double to Michael Harris II in the fourth inning, Gasser recorded nine consecutive outs to end his outing.

Gasser was 2-0 with a 2.57 ERA in five starts in 2024 before Tommy John surgery shortened his season. He returned for two starts in 2025.

Gasser’s long-awaited win may be a sign he has made a full recovery and is again ready to perform at the potential that made him a second-round draft pick by San Diego in 2021.

Surgery for Murphy

Murphy said Saturday he plans to have back surgery on Thursday, when the team is off, and a procedure on his hip during the All-Star break.

Murphy said he doesn’t expect to miss any games.

Murphy said the discomfort in his back is related to the hip issue. He did not reveal details of the procedures but said the pain has become worse.

“I can’t live like that,” Murphy said. “… I’m having the surgery so it works out good.”