Image Source: ESPN
Dustin May is scheduled to start Game 4 of the World Series for the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday night, putting the right-hander in the spotlight as his team tries to complete a sweep of the Tampa Bay Rays and secure the franchise’s first championship.
The Brewers entered the matchup with a commanding 3-0 World Series lead after an explosive Game 3 victory. Milwaukee rallied for eight runs in the fifth inning before finishing with a decisive win, moving within one victory of the title.
Dustin May Leads Brewers Into a Critical Clincher
May’s assignment is part of a bullpen game plan rather than a traditional starter-led approach. The right-hander pitched a scoreless inning during Milwaukee’s 5-4 victory in Game 2, and the Brewers will now rely on him to help set the tone in a potential championship-clinching game.
During the regular season, May posted a 7-9 record with a 4.70 ERA and 144 strikeouts. His postseason work has been more limited, with four appearances, including one start. Across eight October innings, he has recorded a 5.63 ERA.
That recent relief appearance gives Milwaukee some familiarity with how May can be used in a high-pressure situation. Rather than asking him to carry a full game, the Brewers’ bullpen strategy allows manager and staff to divide the contest among several arms based on matchups, pitch counts and game conditions.
Powerful Opportunity for Milwaukee’s Pitching Staff
A championship game can create unusual demands on a pitching staff. The Brewers are not simply trying to win another contest; they are attempting to finish a postseason run without dropping a game in either the League Championship Series or the World Series.
According to ESPN, Milwaukee would join the 1976 Cincinnati Reds as the only teams to sweep both the LCS and the World Series. The achievement would be especially notable because it would mark the first such sweep since the LCS became a best-of-seven series in 1985.
May’s role therefore carries importance beyond his individual statistics. If he can provide efficient outs early or in the middle innings, Milwaukee can preserve its other relief options and keep the Rays from building momentum. The Brewers’ pitching depth will be tested, but the club has the clearest possible advantage entering Game 4.
Griffin Jax Scheduled to Start for Tampa Bay
The Rays are expected to counter with right-hander Griffin Jax. He last pitched in the American League Championship Series against the Cleveland Guardians on Oct. 15, meaning Tampa Bay will turn to a pitcher who has had time to rest before facing elimination.
For the Rays, the challenge is immediate. They must win four consecutive games to reverse the series, beginning with a victory against a Milwaukee team that has controlled the World Series to this point. Tampa Bay’s offense will need to respond quickly, particularly after the Brewers’ dramatic fifth-inning surge in Game 3.
The matchup also places pressure on both teams’ bullpens. Milwaukee is planning around multiple pitchers, while Tampa Bay must balance the need to protect its staff with the urgency of keeping its season alive. One difficult inning could determine whether the series continues or ends in a celebration for the Brewers.
What Is at Stake in Game 4?
Milwaukee is pursuing the first championship in franchise history. The Brewers have reached the World Series before, including their 1982 appearance, but they have never finished a season as baseball’s champion.
A win would give the organization a historic breakthrough and cap a remarkable postseason. It would also make Milwaukee the first team in the modern best-of-seven LCS era to sweep both postseason rounds required for the feat.
May and the Brewers’ pitching staff will be asked to handle the final step. The right-hander’s regular-season numbers provide context, but his immediate task is simpler: record important outs, keep Tampa Bay within reach and help Milwaukee finish the job.
As reported by ESPN, Game 4 represents a potential turning point for both clubs. The Brewers need one more victory for history, while the Rays must find a way to extend the series and prevent Milwaukee from completing an unforgettable October run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Dustin May starting Game 4?
May is starting as part of a bullpen game plan for Milwaukee. He previously pitched a scoreless inning in the Brewers’ Game 2 victory.
What were Dustin May’s regular-season numbers?
May finished the regular season with a 7-9 record, a 4.70 ERA and 144 strikeouts.
Who is starting for the Tampa Bay Rays?
Right-hander Griffin Jax is scheduled to start for Tampa Bay. He last pitched in the American League Championship Series on Oct. 15.
What happens if Milwaukee wins Game 4?
The Brewers would sweep the Rays, win the World Series and claim the first championship in franchise history.
Could Milwaukee make postseason history?
Yes. A sweep would make Milwaukee only the second team to sweep both the LCS and World Series, joining the 1976 Cincinnati Reds.
