Dodgers Face Early NLCS Deficit Against Brewers
Los Angeles returns home trailing 2-0 after a Game 3 loss, with pitching and offensive struggles highlighted.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are heading back to Southern California facing a daunting 2-0 deficit in the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Game 3 is set to feature a pitching matchup with questions surrounding both starters. The Brewers will send Robert Gasser to the mound, a left-hander who has struggled against the Dodgers in previous 2026 matchups. Gasser posted a 0-2 record with a 5.91 ERA in two starts against Los Angeles this season, surrendering seven earned runs and three home runs in 10 2/3 innings.
Despite Gasser's difficulties, the Dodgers' offensive strategy may be impacted by Shohei Ohtani's potential absence. Ohtani is reportedly dealing with a slump and lingering injuries, which could lead to him sitting out Game 3. However, the Dodgers have demonstrated offensive depth, with players like Teoscar Hernandez, Andy Pages, and Tommy Edman having hit home runs off Gasser this season.
On the other side, the Dodgers are expected to start Blake Snell. Snell has shown effectiveness when healthy, but has a history of struggling to pitch deep into games. In his last five starts, he has averaged only four innings. A particularly concerning outing came against the Braves in the NLDS, where he issued five walks and required 90 pitches to complete just 3 2/3 innings.
An early exit for Snell would place significant pressure on a Dodgers bullpen that has shown inconsistency throughout the postseason, with the exception of closer Edwin Diaz. The relievers allowed four earned runs in 5 1/3 innings in a recent game, contributing to the Brewers' ability to extend their lead.
With both starting pitchers facing challenges and the Brewers' offense showing momentum, the series anticipates a high-scoring affair in Game 3. One prediction suggests an over/under of 7.5 runs, with odds of -104 available on FanDuel Sportsbook.