Brewers Push Dodgers to Brink in Stunning MLB Playoff Run

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Brewers Push Dodgers to the Brink Despite Massive Payroll Gap

Being down 0-3 with a $304 million payroll while getting worked over by the best team in baseball feels like a pipe dream. Dave Roberts was part of the Red Sox team that overcame a 0-3 deficit against the Yankees in the ALCS, so he knows a comeback is possible.

Roberts said his players have been battle-tested and must focus on winning the next game. Facing elimination, the Dodgers need to find a way to build momentum.

However, only one team has completed a comeback from a 0-3 deficit. Other teams have made those series competitive, but that Red Sox team finished the job.

The Dodgers also need more from their stars. The $70 million Ohtani is hitting .182. Meanwhile, the Brewers rank first in hitting, home runs, RBIs, hits, stolen bases and pitching.

Manager Pat Murphy and general manager Matt Arnold have done a sensational job. Milwaukee has a $146 million payroll, 19th in baseball, compared with the Dodgers’ second-highest payroll at $305 million.

The Brewers are one win away from returning to the World Series for the first time since 1982, when they were in the American League and lost to the Cardinals in seven games. Milwaukee won 103 games and was the best team in baseball during the regular season. Now, it is also the best team in the postseason.

This series shows that money cannot buy a championship in baseball without the right chemistry and team dynamics. With roughly half the Dodgers’ payroll, the Brewers are beating them convincingly. It is an incredible story, even if a Rays-Brewers World Series might struggle to attract viewers.