The Milwaukee Brewers, who had enjoyed a near-perfect postseason run, saw their World Series hopes take a significant hit in Game 4. Manager Pat Murphy's decision to use reliever Shane Drohan instead of ace Jacob Misiorowski in the bottom of the 12th inning allowed the Tampa Bay Rays to rally for a dramatic victory, tying the series and shifting the momentum.
The Brewers had been dominant through the playoffs, winning eight consecutive games against formidable opponents. Their roster, featuring star players and a strong regular-season record, appeared poised to secure the franchise's first championship. Key performances from pitchers like Aaron Ashby, who set a postseason record for scoreless innings, and Robert Gasser had bolstered their success.
In Game 4, the Brewers took a 3-2 lead in the top of the 12th inning on a home run by utility infielder David Hamilton and a go-ahead homer from rookie shortstop Cooper Pratt. However, the lead proved short-lived.
Ninth Inning Collapse
The Rays mounted their comeback in the bottom of the 12th. A lead-off error allowed Junior Caminero to reach base, followed by a single from Liam Hicks. Jonny DeLuca then tied the game with a single, and Chandler Simpson loaded the bases. The game-winning run scored on a ground ball by Ben Williamson that bounced over first base into the outfield.
Following the game, Murphy explained his reasoning for not using Misiorowski, who was slated to start Game 5. According to Brewers beat reporter Curt Hogg, Murphy stated that he did not want to expend his likely Cy Young award winner in a game where the team held a 3-0 series lead and was nearing a championship clincher. He added that for Game 5, it would be "all hands on deck."
This decision has drawn scrutiny, as many questioned why the team's best pitcher was not deployed to secure the championship-clinching out. The alternative, using a pitcher in Drohan who had limited recent game action and a history of allowing runs, proved costly. The move suggests a potential miscalculation of the immediate stakes versus future planning.
The Brewers remain favorites to win the series, especially with Misiorowski expected to pitch in Game 5. However, the bullpen's usage in Game 4, coupled with potential availability issues for key relievers like Ashby, introduces an element of uncertainty. The unexpected loss has now extended the series, potentially opening the door for a Rays comeback.
The Brewers now face the challenge of regrouping and closing out the series, a task made more difficult by the dramatic turn of events in Game 4.