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Padres fans are preparing for another dramatic postseason showdown as San Diego turns to Walker Buehler for Wednesday night’s crucial National League Division Series Game 4 against the Milwaukee Brewers. The Padres lead the best-of-five series 2-1 after surviving an explosive Game 3.
The game carries major significance for both teams. San Diego can advance to the National League Championship Series with a victory, while Milwaukee is attempting to force a deciding Game 5 at home. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. PT, with national coverage available on FS1, FOX Deportes and FOX One.
Padres Hand Walker Buehler a Massive Game 4 Assignment
Buehler will make his first postseason appearance for the Padres after being activated from the paternity list. The nine-year veteran has extensive October experience, including 18 career playoff starts and a 3.04 ERA across 19 postseason outings.
Although Buehler finished the regular season with a 9-6 record and a 4.63 ERA, his second-half performance gave San Diego confidence. The Padres went 10-3 in his second-half starts, and he established himself as one of the club’s most dependable rotation options.
Buehler has evolved from the overpowering pitcher who dominated earlier in his career. He now relies more on pitch selection, movement and experience, but the Padres believe his composure will be valuable in a high-pressure elimination-style game.
There is also a compelling connection to Milwaukee. The last time the Brewers won a postseason road game was Game 2 of the 2018 NL Championship Series, when they defeated Buehler and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Since then, Milwaukee has dropped 12 consecutive playoff games away from home.
Milwaukee Turns to Robert Gasser in Urgent NLDS Battle
The Brewers will start left-hander Robert Gasser, a 27-year-old pitcher acquired from the Padres in the 2022 Josh Hader trade. Gasser enters the matchup in strong form, posting a 1.67 ERA over his final six regular-season outings.
Milwaukee considered several alternatives, including an opener or a multi-inning plan involving Shane Drohan and Chad Patrick. Instead, manager Pat Murphy opted to trust Gasser from the beginning, even with the Padres’ lineup featuring several right-handed hitters.
The Brewers are not officially facing elimination, but the urgency is clear. A loss would send the series back to Milwaukee with the Padres holding all the momentum. Jacob Misiorowski is available for a potential Game 5, though using him there could affect his availability if the Brewers advance to the NLCS.
Key Lineup Changes Could Shape the Game
Murphy is using his fourth different lineup in four games. Jackson Chourio remains in the leadoff spot, while Christian Yelich moves up to second after collecting two hits in Game 3. Brice Turang stays in the cleanup position despite a difficult series at the plate.
- Jackson Chourio leads off in left field.
- Christian Yelich bats second as the designated hitter.
- William Contreras occupies the third spot.
- Brice Turang remains fourth in the order.
San Diego is also making a notable adjustment. Austin Hays will serve as the designated hitter and bat fifth despite going hitless in seven postseason at-bats. Samad Taylor moves into left field, while Dustin Harris is available as a potential pinch-hitter against a right-handed reliever.
Fernando Tatis Jr. leads off for the Padres, followed by Jackson Merrill and Manny Machado. Machado has been one of the hottest hitters of the postseason, batting .375 with a 1.212 OPS. Ty France and Xander Bogaerts have also delivered important offensive production.
Padres Bullpen Gets a Critical Reinforcement
The Padres officially activated closer Mason Miller from the paternity list, replacing left-hander Wandy Peralta on the NLDS roster. Miller’s return is a major boost after San Diego used Michael King for the final two innings of Game 3.
King had started Game 2 and pitched into the sixth inning only two days before closing out Tuesday’s contest. Bradgley Rodriguez, Yuki Matsui and Jason Adam also worked in Game 3, leaving the bullpen less than fully rested.
Adrian Morejon remains under evaluation after experiencing shoulder fatigue. Joe Musgrove could be asked to handle a high-leverage role if the game reaches the late innings.
Milwaukee expects to have Aaron Ashby and Trevor Megill available after neither pitched in Game 3. The Brewers could also consider using Misiorowski for an inning, depending on the game’s circumstances.
What Is at Stake in Padres-Brewers Game 4?
History offers Milwaukee a reason for hope. In best-of-five postseason series, teams that lose the opening two games, win Game 3 and avoid elimination have forced a Game 5 in 18 of 39 cases. Ten of those teams eventually completed the comeback and won the series.
Still, San Diego enters Game 4 with momentum, home-field energy and the return of its closer. The Padres are seeking to capitalize on Machado’s hot bat and Buehler’s postseason experience, while the Brewers are trying to end a painful road losing streak.
Every pitch could determine whether the Padres celebrate a trip to the NLCS or return home for one final winner-take-all opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Padres vs. Brewers Game 4?
Game 4 is scheduled for Wednesday at 7 p.m. PT and 9 p.m. CT.
Who is starting for the Padres?
Walker Buehler is scheduled to start for San Diego.
Who is pitching for Milwaukee?
Left-hander Robert Gasser will start for the Brewers.
Can the Padres clinch the NLDS in Game 4?
Yes. A victory would give San Diego a 3-1 series win and send the Padres to the National League Championship Series.
Is Mason Miller available?
Yes. The Padres activated Miller from the paternity list ahead of Game 4.
