Image Source: MLB.com
The Brewers and Dodgers are set for an electrifying NLCS Game 4, with Los Angeles looking to clinch the National League pennant while Milwaukee fights to keep their postseason dreams alive. The Dodgers have established a commanding 3-0 lead in the series, meaning they need just one more win to reach the World Series for the second consecutive year. The Brewers, on the other hand, are facing the daunting challenge of needing four straight victories to complete one of the most remarkable comebacks in baseball history.
Milwaukee enters this pivotal game with a heavy burden; having lost ten consecutive postseason games on the road. This streak began during the 2018 National League Championship Series and has become a looming shadow over their current performance. Christian Yelich, the Brewers’ designated hitter, emphasized the need to focus on smaller goals, stating, “We have to break it down into little goals. Our goal right now should be to get the series back to Milwaukee and worry about the rest of the stuff later.”
What to Expect in Game 4: Pitching Matchups
Game 4 promises to be a thrilling showdown between strong pitchers. The Brewers have announced that Jose Quintana will take the mound, tasked with saving their season. Despite a solid regular season with an 11-7 record and 3.96 ERA, Quintana hasn’t started since suffering a left calf strain in September. His limited pitching since then raises questions about how deep he can go into the game.
For the Dodgers, the two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani will make his NLCS pitching debut. With a 1-1 record and a 2.87 ERA this postseason, Ohtani’s performance will be critical as he tries to lead his team to victory. Ohtani has shown resilience in postseason play, striking out nine in his last start and will aim to continue that trend against the Brewers.
Starting Lineups: Who’s in for Game 4?
The starting lineups reflect the strategies of both teams. Milwaukee is relieved to have Jackson Chourio in the lineup after he exited Game 3 due to a hamstring issue. The Brewers’ lineup includes:
- Brice Turang, 2B
- Jackson Chourio, LF
- Christian Yelich, DH
- William Contreras, C
- Jake Bauers, 1B
- Sal Frelick, RF
- Caleb Durbin, 3B
- Blake Perkins, CF
- Joey Ortiz, SS
Meanwhile, the Dodgers are maintaining their winning formula with the following lineup:
- Shohei Ohtani, P
- Mookie Betts, SS
- Will Smith, C
- Freddie Freeman, 1B
- Tommy Edman, 2B
- Teoscar Hernández, RF
- Max Muncy, 3B
- Kiké Hernández, LF
- Andy Pages, CF
Team Momentum and Recent Performance
Despite their regular season success, the Brewers have struggled offensively against the Dodgers, managing only three runs across three games. Their team batting average in this series is a dismal .101, a stark contrast to their regular-season performance where they ranked among the top in runs scored. Key players like Yelich and Contreras are looking to break out of their postseason slumps as Milwaukee desperately seeks a win in Game 4.
On the flip side, the Dodgers have shown consistency and resilience, particularly with players like Tommy Edman who is performing well this postseason. Their bullpen, with rested arms ready to step in, could provide critical late-game support, should the starters go only a few innings.
What Lies Ahead for Both Teams
For the Dodgers, clinching the series in front of their home crowd at Dodger Stadium would be a monumental achievement. For the Brewers, this game represents a chance to rebalance the series and reclaim some of the momentum. The stage is set for what could be a thrilling conclusion, either sealing a Dodgers triumph or opening the door for an improbable Brewers comeback.
FAQ
When is NLCS Game 4 between the Brewers and Dodgers?
Game 4 will take place on Friday at Dodger Stadium, with a scheduled first pitch at 8:38 p.m. ET.
How can fans watch the game?
Fans can catch all the action on TBS, truTV, and HBO Max, with MLB.TV providing live streaming options as well for authenticated users.
What are the implications of Game 4?
If the Dodgers win, they advance to the World Series; if the Brewers prevail, they stay alive in the NLCS and try to fight back from a 0-3 deficit.
Who are the starting pitchers for Game 4?
The Brewers will start Jose Quintana, while the Dodgers will send Shohei Ohtani to the mound.
What challenges do both teams face in this game?
The Brewers must overcome their poor postseason performance, while the Dodgers aim to maintain their dominance through to the World Series.
