The Los Angeles Dodgers are poised to complete a sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS) on October 20, 2023. After winning the first three games, the Dodgers can secure their place in the World Series with a victory. The match is scheduled to take place at 20:38 EDT at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.
Entering the game, the Dodgers boast a record of 93-69 overall, including an impressive 52-29 at home. Their batting lineup has demonstrated effectiveness, holding a collective .327 on-base percentage, ranking third in the National League. In contrast, the Brewers, with a season record of 97-65, have shown resilience on the road, going 45-36 this season. Milwaukee will enter the game with the knowledge that they have a strong 72-15 record when out-hitting their opponents.
Pitching Matchup and Season Context
The Dodgers are set to start Shohei Ohtani, who has a 1-1 record with a 2.87 ERA and 62 strikeouts this season. The Brewers have yet to announce their starting pitcher, creating an element of uncertainty ahead of the game. This matchup marks the tenth meeting between the two teams this season, with Milwaukee leading the series 6-3.
The last ten games have seen the Dodgers excel with a 9-1 record, showcasing a .251 batting average and a formidable 2.45 ERA. They have outscored their opponents by 19 runs during this stretch. Meanwhile, the Brewers have struggled, posting a 4-6 record, a .201 batting average, and a 2.90 ERA, having been outscored by three runs.
Key Players to Watch
In the Dodgers’ lineup, Mookie Betts has made a significant impact this season, contributing 23 doubles, two triples, 20 home runs, and 82 RBIs while maintaining a .258 batting average. For the Brewers, Christian Yelich leads the team with 29 home runs, boasting a slugging percentage of .452. Recently, Jackson Chourio has also shown impressive form, going 11 for 39 with three doubles, three home runs, and nine RBIs over the past ten games.
In terms of injuries, the Dodgers are facing challenges with several players on the injured list, including Nick Frasso (60-Day IL, undisclosed), Kirby Yates (15-Day IL, hamstring), and Tony Gonsolin (60-Day IL, elbow). The Brewers also have key players affected, such as Brandon Woodruff (15-Day IL, lat) and Garrett Mitchell (60-Day IL, oblique).
With the stakes high for both teams, fans can expect an intense matchup as the Dodgers aim to secure their spot in the World Series while the Brewers fight to keep their championship aspirations alive.