Brewers Manager Defends Decision to Keep Misiorowski in Dugout During World Series Game 4
Pat Murphy explained his strategy of not using the ace pitcher in a tight spot, leading to a Game 5.
Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy has defended his decision to keep ace pitcher Jacob Misiorowski in the dugout during a critical moment in Game 4 of the World Series, a move that has sparked debate among fans. The Brewers held a 3-2 lead in the bottom of the 12th inning with a chance to clinch their first World Series title, but opted to use Shane Drohan instead of Misiorowski to close out the game.
Drohan failed to record an out, and the Tampa Bay Rays capitalized, scoring to force a Game 5. Murphy stated after the game that Misiorowski was not an option in that situation. "You can't blow that type of situation on a one-run lead on the road," Murphy explained. "If we were in the 13th inning and had a three-run lead, that might be a little bit different, and I probably still wouldn't have."
Misiorowski, who is considered a strong contender for the Cy Young Award, had an impressive regular season with a 1.80 ERA and league-leading 252 strikeouts. While his postseason numbers have been slightly higher (2.70 ERA, 14 strikeouts in 13.1 innings over three starts), he has still performed well. Murphy indicated that Misiorowski was always slated to start Game 5, regardless of the Game 4 outcome.
The manager's decision drew criticism on social media, with some fans questioning why the team's best arm wasn't used in a potential championship-clinching game. Others supported the move, suggesting it was a strategic decision to preserve Misiorowski for a necessary Game 5 and potentially Game 6.
The Brewers' bullpen saw extensive use in Game 4, with starter Dustin May pitching only three innings. Seven relievers were used before Drohan entered the game in the 12th. Trevor Megill pitched to one batter in the eighth inning, and Aaron Ashby pitched from the start of the ninth and was removed after one out in the 11th.
Following the game's events, the Rays mounted a comeback with four consecutive hits after an initial error in the 12th inning, ultimately forcing the series back to Tropicana Field for Game 5. The decisive game is scheduled for Wednesday night.