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The Los Angeles Dodgers are on the verge of clinching a spot in the World Series as they face off against the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS) tonight. The Dodgers currently hold a commanding 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven series and can wrap up the pennant at home, an opportunity they aim to capitalize on after an up-and-down regular season.
Dodgers vs. Brewers: The Matchup
As the Dodgers prepare for Game 4, the situation is clear: they need just one win to advance, while the Brewers must win four consecutive games to pull off a historic comeback. “We’re in a big hole,” Brewers designated hitter Christian Yelich admitted after their latest defeat. The Brewers have not triumphed on the road in their last 10 postseason games, a streak which further complicates their quest for a win.
Game Details
Tonight’s match is set for 8:38 p.m. ET at Dodger Stadium and will be broadcast on TBS, truTV, and HBO Max. Fans can also catch the game through MLB.TV, as long as they authenticate with a participating Pay TV provider.
Starting Pitchers
The pitching matchup features two prominent figures: Jose Quintana for the Brewers and Shohei Ohtani for the Dodgers. Quintana, who struggled with a left calf strain earlier in the postseason, aims to salvage the Brewers’ season, while Ohtani looks to cement his legacy with a strong postseason performance. Despite limited preparation time, Ohtani’s impressive game one performance against Philadelphia gave plenty of reason for optimism.
Lineups and Players to Watch
The starting lineups show optimism for both sides. For the Brewers, Jackson Chourio returns, a crucial player who exited Game 3 with a hamstring issue. Here’s how both teams line up:
Brewers:
- 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
Dodgers:
- 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
Key Players and Injuries
The Dodgers roster seems healthier, with Will Smith having returned to the lineup following an injury earlier in the postseason. Meanwhile, the Brewers have players like Yelich struggling significantly at the plate, raising concerns as they face one of the league’s strongest lineups.
What’s at Stake Tonight?
The implications of this game go beyond just a single match; they set the stage for the potential for a repeat victory for the Dodgers in the World Series. Should the Dodgers win tonight, it will mark their second consecutive trip to the finals, a feat that no one expected after a challenging regular season. “We’re really excited,” said Dodgers’ second baseman Edman. “It’s been a bit of a trying year, but we’re getting hot at the right time.”
On the other hand, the Brewers are staring down one of the most daunting tasks in sports: overcoming a 3-0 deficit in a best-of-seven series. As history shows, only a handful of teams have managed to come back from such a deficit. Tonight’s game is crucial for both teams, but for the Brewers, it represents an opportunity to begin that uphill battle.
Keep an Eye on the Bullpens
The Dodgers utilized a reliable bullpen in their previous contests, with pitchers such as Roki Sasaki stepping up in important situations. The Brewers, conversely, have been tested and will need their arms to perform under neon lights tonight.
As the tension rises and the fans gather, one thing is clear: the stage is set for an electrifying clash in Los Angeles. Whether the Dodgers indeed seal their spot in the World Series, or the Brewers rise to the occasion will soon unfold in what promises to be an unforgettable night of baseball.
FAQs
When does Game 4 start?
Game 4 is set for tonight at 8:38 p.m. ET at Dodger Stadium.
Who are the starting pitchers?
The Dodgers will have Shohei Ohtani on the mound, while the Brewers will start Jose Quintana.
How can I watch Game 4?
You can watch the game on TBS, truTV, or HBO Max. It will also be available through MLB.TV.
What is the historical significance of this matchup?
The Dodgers are looking to become the eighth team to finish a best-of-seven series with a 4-0 sweep after leading 3-0.
What do the Brewers need to do to win?
The Brewers must focus on improving their offensive performance to counteract the Dodgers’ strong lineup.
