Zach Jackson

To say that it was a good weekend for Zach Jackson would be a major understatement.

The 23-year old Seneca Valley graduate was informed late Friday night by Nashville Sounds manager Frank Kremblas that he was being called up to the big leagues by Milwaukee.

By Saturday night, Jackson was in uniform as the Brewers took on Washington at Miller Park.

He then made his major league debut by coming on in the ninth inning of Sunday's game against the Nationals and struck out the first two batters he faced — third baseman Brendan Harris and center fielder Damian Jackson — albeit in an 8-4 defeat.

"It was unbelievable," said Jackson of his first major-league appearance. "Words really can't describe what it was like. I didn't even feel the ball come out of my hand for the first three pitches.

"After that I settled down and just focused on hitting the glove."

Jackson ended up retiring the Nationals in order.

It was a fitting end to a hectic weekend for Jackson, who is in just his second full season of professional baseball.

"I'm not surprised they used me so soon after calling me up," the southpaw said. "They wouldn't have made this move if they weren't looking to use me."

The Brewers felt a roster move was needed after starter Dana Eveland's earned run-average rose to 8.51 after Friday's 10-4 loss to Washington.

Eveland was sent to Nashville, along with reliever Chris Mabeus, whose ERA is through the roof at 21.60.

In return, the Brewers called up Jackson and Allan Simpson, a right-handed pitcher.

Jackson made his last appearance for Class AAA Nashville last Monday. He left the Sounds having started 10 games in which he compiled a 2-2 record, a 3.00 ERA and gave up just three home runs in 57 innings pitched.

"I just wanted to give my team the best chance to win," he said. "The (Pacific Coast League) is a big hitters' league, but I was getting comfortable down there."

But not as comfortable as he would like to become in a Brewers' uniform.

Milwaukee has no set plan for Jackson, but he is willing to do whatever he can to help the team win.

"(The Brewers) haven't told me anything yet," said Jackson. "I don't know if I'll get to start or if I'll be working just from the bullpen. Whatever role they need me to fill, I'll do it."

The Brewers enter tonight's home game against San Diego in fourth place in the NL Central Division at 26-31, nine and a half games behind first-place St. Louis.

"This is a great opportunity," Jackson added. "It's a great organization. (Milwaukee) isn't afraid to make moves and give young guys a chance."