For most of the past decade, the Milwaukee Brewers' story has been largely the same: regular-season success without a championship. Since 2017, they've rarely been out of playoff contention, yet remain one of five franchises seeking a first title. This season, however, they've knocked louder than ever.
The Brewers set a franchise record with 103 victories, won the NL Central for the fourth straight year, and led baseball in run differential at plus-214, surpassing the 1982 team's mark. They ranked second in runs scored and second in team ERA despite having the youngest pitching staff.
As ever, the dynastic Dodgers stand in the way of Milwaukee's ideal ending. "It's really fun to watch these guys grow," said second baseman Brice Turang. This year's team is a better version of last year's, when they were swept by L.A. in the NLCS. Milwaukee improved in average, walk rate, and on-base percentage, while leading the majors in low home run rate.
Manager Pat Murphy dismissed concerns about the lack of slugging: "Everybody talks about our lack of slug. It's not like we never hit homers." The Brewers now face the Padres in the NLDS, with the Dodgers looming as the ultimate hurdle.
Source: ESPN MLB · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing