MILWAUKEE — The Los Angeles Dodgers struggled offensively and defensively in their 7-4 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 2 of the National League Championship Series on Monday, putting them in a 2-0 hole as the series shifts back to Los Angeles.
Dodgers starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the team’s ace and reigning World Series MVP, was pulled after just 2 2⁄3 innings, surrendering three runs on four hits while throwing 75 pitches. The right-hander, who had been a reliable postseason performer with a streak of five consecutive appearances allowing one run or fewer, was unable to contain the Brewers’ offense at Miller Park. Milwaukee capitalized early, scoring in both the first and third innings.
The Dodgers’ catcher, Will Smith, faced criticism for not using the team’s available Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenges during key moments. Both challenges remained unused, despite questionable strike calls that extended Brewers’ at-bats. Brewers infielder Brice Turang benefited from this, with a first-inning double and a third-inning walk that contributed to Milwaukee’s scoring opportunities. Smith said he believed saving the challenges for later innings would better serve the team, but acknowledged the Brewers had gained momentum that could not be checked.
Yamamoto himself considered requesting a challenge on a borderline strike call during Turang’s at-bat but ultimately decided against it, citing the fine margins of the strike zone. The pitcher also appeared frustrated by the missed opportunities to halt the Brewers early in the game, underscoring the Dodgers' need for more proactive defensive support.
The Dodgers managed only three hits in the game and were hindered by defensive lapses, including failures to catch pop fouls that prolonged Brewers’ plate appearances. Milwaukee’s lineup applied early pressure, steadily wearing down Los Angeles pitching. The Brewers are now positioned to take a commanding lead in the best-of-seven series after leveraging their offensive advantage.
Despite the setback, teammates expressed confidence that Yamamoto would rebound. Third baseman Max Muncy emphasized the importance of regrouping and supporting their ace for upcoming games. “I know that next time out he’s going to dominate,” Muncy said.
The Dodgers’ pitching, once viewed as the cornerstone of a potential three-peat, has faced challenges against Milwaukee’s balanced attack. After a difficult outing for Tarik Skubal in Game 1, the Brewers again exposed vulnerabilities in Game 2. Milwaukee manager Pat Murphy praised Yamamoto’s varied pitching arsenal but acknowledged that even the best arms have off days.
The series continues with Game 3 scheduled in Los Angeles, where the Dodgers will look to avoid falling into an early 0-3 hole in the NLCS. The team’s ability to respond both on the mound and at the plate will be critical if they hope to keep their championship aspirations alive.