Game 2 of the National League Championship Series was crucial for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Many considered them an unbeatable team. However, Milwaukee, which had the best record in the league, played flawlessly to win Game 1.
Jacob Misiorowski wasn’t dominating as usual, yet the defense held strong when the Dodgers threatened. In the second inning, the Dodgers loaded the bases with Kike Hernandez batting. The Brewers executed a perfect double play to end the inning.
The Brewers Take Control
Milwaukee scored two runs against Tarik Skubal and their bullpen delivered 4.2 scoreless innings to secure the victory. Despite confidence in starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto, LA’s hopes were dashed when Milwaukee’s offense led to a 7-4 win and a 2-0 series lead.
The Dodgers capitalized on early Brewers’ mistakes, including a wild pitch that allowed Mookie Betts to score, giving them a 1-0 lead. Milwaukee promptly tied the game in the bottom of the first. An unchallenged strike call allowed Brice Turang to double and score, followed by William Contreras’ quirky single that added to their lead.
Challenges and Missed Opportunities
The Dodgers missed the chance to contest a strike three call, leading to a Milwaukee rally. Notably, Yamamoto’s postseason success from 2025 wasn’t replicated. He lasted only 2.2 innings, yielding three runs.
The Dodgers regained a 4-3 lead in the fifth thanks to Brewer mistakes, involving Kyle Tucker doubling and an error on a Tommy Edman bunt. Yet, Contreras’ homer in the bottom of the fifth erased their lead once more.
Brewers’ Bullpen and Late Game Surge
The Brewers bullpen remained untouchable, setting a playoff record with a streak of nearly 29 innings with just one run allowed. Milwaukee continued their offensive strategy with David Hamilton and Brice Turang pushing the lead to 5-12.
The Dodgers struggled to find hits with runners in scoring position. Milwaukee’s ability to convert soft hits into runs defied conventional data that favors hard contact for success.
Playoff Context
It’s uncertain whether Milwaukee’s success is just luck. Small sample sizes in playoff series mean outcomes can vary widely. The Brewers lead the series and seem likely to advance to the World Series. Baseball’s unpredictability highlights the challenge in predicting outcomes.
The Dodgers return to LA for Game 3 knowing the odds and small margins in the game can turn a series on its head.