Here’s a bold statement for you: the National League Championship Series (NLCS) is teetering on the edge of history, and Game 4 could be the tipping point. The Los Angeles Dodgers are just one win away from securing their second consecutive World Series berth, while the Milwaukee Brewers face the daunting task of winning four straight games to pull off one of the most improbable comebacks in sports history. But here’s where it gets controversial: can the Brewers defy the odds, or will the Dodgers seal the deal on their home turf? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this pivotal matchup.
When and Where to Watch
Game 4 is set for Friday at Dodger Stadium, with the first pitch scheduled for 8:38 p.m. ET (7:38 p.m. CT/5:38 p.m. PT). You can catch all the action on TBS, truTV, and HBO Max. For fans outside the U.S., MLB.TV has you covered, though Canadian viewers will need to tune into Sportsnet for English coverage or TVA Sports/RDS for French broadcasts. And this is the part most people miss: the Brewers’ road to recovery starts here, but their history of 10 consecutive postseason road losses doesn’t bode well.
Starting Pitchers: A Tale of Two Arms
The Brewers are sending left-hander Jose Quintana to the mound, a veteran who hasn’t started a game since September 14 due to a calf strain. Quintana’s health and endurance will be under the microscope as he tries to keep Milwaukee’s season alive. Meanwhile, the Dodgers counter with Shohei Ohtani, the two-way superstar who hasn’t pitched in nearly two weeks but remains a force to be reckoned with. Ohtani’s splitter has been a game-changer, and this will be his first pitching start against the Brewers. Question for you: Can Quintana outduel Ohtani, or will the Dodgers’ ace dominate once again?
Lineups and Key Players
The Brewers’ lineup features Jackson Chourio, who returns after a hamstring scare in Game 3. However, their offense has been eerily quiet, with only Caleb Durbin and Jake Bauers showing signs of life. The Dodgers, meanwhile, stick with their Game 3 lineup, led by Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. Tommy Edman, who’s been on fire this postseason, will look to continue his hot streak. Controversial take: Is the Brewers’ offensive slump a temporary hiccup, or are the Dodgers simply that dominant?
Bullpen Strategies
The Brewers’ bullpen has been overworked, with Aaron Ashby and Abner Uribe appearing in all three games. The Dodgers, however, have kept their relievers fresh, with Roki Sasaki emerging as their go-to closer. Thought-provoking question: Will the Brewers’ bullpen fatigue cost them the series, or can they find a way to outlast the Dodgers’ rested arms?
Injury Updates and Performance Trends
The Brewers are dealing with Chourio’s hamstring issue, while the Dodgers’ Will Smith (hairline fracture) and Tommy Edman (ankle) are managing injuries. Despite their struggles, the Brewers’ Christian Yelich remains optimistic, urging his team to focus on one game at a time. The Dodgers, meanwhile, are riding a wave of momentum, having won four straight postseason games while allowing just one run in each. Bold prediction: Can the Brewers break the Dodgers’ defensive stronghold, or will Los Angeles’ pitching continue to stifle Milwaukee’s offense?
Historical Context
History isn’t on the Brewers’ side. Teams that have taken a 3-0 lead in a best-of-seven series have gone on to sweep their opponents every single time. The Dodgers, meanwhile, are aiming to join an elite group of teams that have won four straight postseason games while allowing one run or fewer. Final question for you: Will the Brewers make history, or will the Dodgers write another chapter in their storied franchise?
Game 4 promises drama, tension, and high stakes. Don’t miss it—and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Who do you think will come out on top, and why?
