The San Diego Padres find themselves on the brink of elimination after dropping the first two games of the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite taking early 2-0 leads in both games, the Padres were unable to hold the advantage, allowing the Brewers to even the series and gain momentum heading into Game 3.

Jackson Chourio continues to make a significant impact for Milwaukee, further cementing his reputation as a key postseason performer. The Brewers now need just one more victory to advance to the National League Championship Series (NLCS). Heading into Wednesday's game, the Padres are favored on the moneyline at -136, reflecting confidence in their home-field advantage and offensive potential.

Milwaukee will turn to Dustin May to pitch in Game 3 after using their top two starting pitchers, Jacob Misiorowski and Logan Henderson, in the first two contests. May has struggled during the regular season on the road, holding a 2-4 record with a 5.88 ERA. Over 56 1/3 road innings, he has allowed 64 hits and 10 home runs while striking out 59 batters. This presents an opportunity for the Padres’ lineup, which is eager to bounce back from recent setbacks.

A particular focus lies on third baseman Manny Machado, who went 0-for-2 in Game 2 but has largely been productive throughout the postseason. Machado leads the Padres with 10 total bases across four playoff games and is among the team's four players with a home run this series. Historically, he has had some success against May, compiling a .238 batting average with 10 hits, including two homers and five RBIs in 42 career plate appearances against the right-hander.

The Padres will aim to capitalize on May’s struggles and their own offensive strengths to avoid falling into a 3-0 deficit, which would put their season in serious jeopardy. The outcome of Game 3 will be critical as Milwaukee seeks to close out the series and San Diego fights to extend their postseason hopes.