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Dave Roberts and the Los Angeles Dodgers are facing a stunning postseason crisis after Milwaukee defeated Los Angeles, 6-2, in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026.
The loss marked the Dodgers’ third consecutive defeat in the NLCS and left them trailing the Milwaukee Brewers three games to none. Los Angeles now stands one loss away from elimination, while its hopes of winning a third straight World Series title are in serious danger.
Dave Roberts Remains Confident Despite Crushing NLCS Deficit
Following the game, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts spoke with reporters about his team’s difficult position. Although the Dodgers have been unable to generate consistent offense, Roberts indicated that he still believes a comeback is possible.
That belief will be tested immediately. The Dodgers must win Game 4 on Thursday night to extend the series and prevent Milwaukee from completing a sweep at Dodger Stadium.
“It’s a pretty simple answer. We’re playing like s—, they’re playing great. As simple as that,” Max Muncy told reporters after the defeat.
The blunt assessment reflected the Dodgers’ struggles throughout the series. Muncy, one of the club’s most powerful hitters, is just 4-for-21 during the postseason. Three of those hits were home runs, but all three came during the National League Division Series rather than against Milwaukee.
Dodgers’ Bats Go Silent at Critical Moment
The Dodgers have yet to hit a home run in their three NLCS losses. Their inability to deliver with runners in scoring position has also become a defining issue, as the team is just 3-for-32 in those situations during the playoffs.
Los Angeles briefly appeared to regain control in the sixth inning when Will Smith drove in two runs with a ball off the wall in left-center field. The hit gave the Dodgers a 2-1 advantage and energized the home crowd.
However, Milwaukee reliever DL Hall entered the game and struck out the next two batters, preventing Los Angeles from adding to its lead. The Brewers quickly turned the momentum in the following inning.
Jake Bauers hit a two-run home run in the top of the seventh after a lengthy at-bat against Dodgers starter Blake Snell. Garrett Mitchell followed with a solo shot, giving Milwaukee back-to-back home runs and a 4-2 lead.
The Brewers added two more runs later in the contest, while the Dodgers’ offense disappeared down the stretch. Los Angeles sent nine consecutive batters to the plate without recording a hit or reaching base to finish the game.
Milwaukee Brewers One Win From World Series Trip
Milwaukee’s victory continued an impressive run of pitching, timely hitting and defensive execution. The Brewers have consistently neutralized the Dodgers’ star-studded lineup while capitalizing on mistakes from the Los Angeles pitching staff.
For the Dodgers, the pressure is now at its highest point of the season. Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, Tommy Edman and Muncy have all been part of a lineup that has struggled to produce a decisive blow when needed most.
The result has created an unexpected postseason scenario for a team seeking to make history. After winning back-to-back championships, Los Angeles is now fighting simply to keep its season alive.
Game 4 is scheduled for Thursday at 8 p.m. Eastern and will be broadcast on FOX. A Dodgers victory would force the series to continue, while a Milwaukee win would send the Brewers to the World Series and end Los Angeles’ title defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dodgers’ NLCS deficit?
The Los Angeles Dodgers trail the Milwaukee Brewers three games to none in the National League Championship Series.
What did Max Muncy say after Game 3?
Muncy gave a blunt assessment, saying the Dodgers were “playing like s—” while the Brewers were playing great.
When is Dodgers vs. Brewers Game 4?
Game 4 is scheduled for Thursday night at 8 p.m. Eastern at Dodger Stadium.
Can the Dodgers still win the NLCS?
Yes. The Dodgers would need to win four consecutive games, beginning with Game 4, to overcome the 3-0 deficit and advance.
Why are the Dodgers struggling offensively?
Los Angeles has struggled with runners in scoring position and has not hit a home run in its three NLCS losses.
