The Milwaukee Brewers secured their first trip to the World Series since 1982 by completing a four-game sweep of the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) on Thursday at Dodger Stadium. The Brewers won the decisive game 6-4, rallying from an early deficit to clinch the series and deny the Dodgers a chance at a third consecutive World Series title.
The Dodgers jumped to an early 4-0 lead, fueled by Shohei Ohtani’s first postseason home run, a three-run shot in the second inning. However, the Brewers gradually chipped away at the deficit, capitalizing on a shaky Dodgers bullpen. Milwaukee tied the game in the fifth inning following a series of walks and stolen bases. Their comeback was highlighted by a pivotal sixth-inning, go-ahead home run from left fielder Garrett Mitchell, who hit a 409-foot leadoff blast off Dodgers reliever Tanner Scott. This homer marked the first of Mitchell’s career on an 0-2 count and gave the Brewers their first lead of the night.
The Brewers’ bullpen then held firm in the late innings, shutting down multiple scoring threats. Closer Josh Ashby recorded the save, including critical strikeouts of Ohtani and other Dodgers’ key hitters like Mookie Betts. David Hamilton, the ninth batter in Milwaukee’s order who was traded from Boston earlier in the season, extended the lead with a two-out solo homer in the ninth inning, securing the victory.
The Brewers’ triumph was notable given the contrast in payroll and star power. Milwaukee’s roster is among baseball’s smallest markets, with only one player earning more than $10 million annually, compared to the Dodgers’ 15 players meeting that threshold, including Ohtani, whose contract exceeds $700 million. The Brewers’ team effort and depth, coupled with inspired performances from role players and a strong bullpen, helped overcome the Dodgers’ experience and recent championship pedigree.
Milwaukee manager Pat Murphy and players reflected on last year’s sweep at the hands of the Dodgers, using that disappointment as motivation throughout the season. Second baseman Brice Turang noted the lingering sting of the previous loss and the team’s determination not to repeat it. Outfielder Sal Frelick, who has experienced postseason heartbreak in consecutive years, highlighted the focus and unity within the team.
The Brewers now stand on the brink of making franchise history, joining the 1982 Brewers as one of only two Milwaukee teams to reach the World Series. The team’s owner, Mark Attansio, expressed awe at the accomplishment and the youthful resilience of the squad. While acknowledging the Dodgers’ talent and championship experience, Murphy emphasized the team’s readiness and belief as they prepare to compete for the pennant.
With the sweep completed, Milwaukee will face the winner of the American League Championship Series in the World Series, marking a significant milestone for a small-market team capable of overcoming a storied and heavily favored opponent.