Dodgers vs. Brewers: Bullpen Edge & Lineup Concerns

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Game Time Decisions

Milwaukee’s Bullpen Could Give the Dodgers Trouble Again

Whether he bats fourth, fifth, or sixth may not matter because opponents are still pitching to him the same way. He looks completely lost at the plate, making it difficult to assess whether changing his position in the order would help.

The Dodgers deserve credit for beating the Braves, but the Braves never seemed especially threatening. They had to use Sale on short rest, while Yamamoto shut them down. The Braves still had a good season: they won the division and beat the Phillies in the wild card, even though they wanted to advance further.

Milwaukee’s bullpen could be the deciding factor. If the game is tied 2-2 in the sixth inning, Los Angeles may again be in trouble. There is more confidence in Milwaukee scoring against Vesia, Scott, and Edwin Diaz than in the Dodgers breaking through against Milwaukee’s relievers.

Ashby has been particularly difficult to reach, and Milwaukee’s bullpen is pitching exceptionally well right now. That may eventually change, but Milwaukee has another legitimate chance tonight. If he lasts only 3 2/3 innings, as he did against the Braves, they could be in trouble.