Dodgers' Advantages Vanish as Brewers Take 2-0 Series Lead
Milwaukee's relentless offense and bullpen have neutralized Los Angeles's perceived strengths in the NLCS.
The Milwaukee Brewers have seized a commanding 2-0 lead in the National League Championship Series, systematically dismantling the perceived advantages of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
What began as a series where the Dodgers were expected to hold an edge in starting pitching and offensive firepower has transformed into a struggle where their strengths are being neutralized. The Brewers’ lineup has effectively marginalized the Dodgers’ starters, while the Dodgers' offense has been held without a home run through the first two games.
Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani strikes out during the sixth inning of Game 2 of baseball’s National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, Monday, Oct. 12, 2026, in Milwaukee.
In Game 2, the script seemed to favor the Dodgers with Yoshinobu Yamamoto on the mound. However, the Brewers employed a strategy of working deep counts and forcing Yamamoto out of the game early. Yamamoto’s 2⅔ innings pitched marked his shortest postseason start in the major leagues. He surrendered multiple walks and was removed with his pitch count elevated, forcing the Dodgers to rely heavily on their bullpen.
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto (18) watches a single hit by Milwaukee Brewers third baseman David Hamilton (6) during the third inning of a National League Championship Series game at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Monday, Oct. 12, 2026.
The Brewers’ offense, described as unspectacular but industrious, managed to wear down Yamamoto, driving up his pitch count and ultimately scoring runs against him. Missed calls on borderline pitches by home plate umpire Chris Segal played a role, contributing to walks that extended innings and allowed the Brewers to capitalize.
Once the game transitioned to the bullpens, the Brewers’ relentless relief corps, considered one of their greatest strengths, was able to exploit a perceived weakness in the Dodgers’ bullpen. The Dodgers now face a significant deficit as the series heads to Los Angeles for the next three games, with Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow slated to start Games 3 and 4.