Full Breakdown
Brewers Face Dodgers in NLCS Without Key Pitcher Brandon Woodruff
10/13/2025, 4:00:58 AM
Overview of the NLCS Matchup
The Milwaukee Brewers are set to face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) after defeating the Chicago Cubs in a dramatic Game 5 of the NLDS. However, the Brewers will be without their ace pitcher, Brandon Woodruff, who is sidelined due to a moderate right lat strain sustained on September 21. Woodruff has not resumed throwing and will not be on the roster for the NLCS, raising concerns about Milwaukee's pitching depth as they prepare to take on a formidable Dodgers lineup.
Impact of Woodruff's Absence
Brandon Woodruff's injury is a significant setback for the Brewers, who relied on his strong performance earlier in the season, where he posted a 3.20 ERA and a 32.3% strikeout rate over 12 starts. His absence puts additional pressure on the remaining pitching staff, which will likely include Freddy Peralta as the only traditional starter, alongside a mix of younger pitchers such as Quinn Priester, Jacob Misiorowski, and Chad Patrick. The Brewers may need to employ a bullpen strategy to navigate the series against the Dodgers, who have a powerful offense.
Dodgers' Strengths and Recent Performance
The Dodgers enter the NLCS with momentum, having swept the Cincinnati Reds in the Wild Card Series and defeated the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLDS. They are aiming for a repeat World Series title, a feat not accomplished since the New York Yankees won three consecutive championships from 1998 to 2000. The Dodgers possess a deep roster featuring stars like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman, and they have shown resilience despite their regular-season struggles against the Brewers, where they went 0-6.
Expert Predictions
Experts are divided on the outcome of the series. Some analysts, like R.J. Anderson, predict a Dodgers victory in seven games, citing their elite talent and starting pitching. Others, however, believe the Brewers' cohesive team play and strong bullpen could lead them to victory. Dayn Perry noted that while the Dodgers are better constructed for playoff success, the Brewers had a better regular-season record and could surprise the Dodgers if Woodruff returns for the World Series.
Official Statements & Responses
Brandon Woodruff expressed uncertainty regarding his recovery timeline, stating, “I’ve been trying to get ready. Each day is better and better for me. I don’t know what tomorrow looks like.” His absence has prompted the Brewers to adapt their pitching strategy, relying heavily on their bullpen and younger pitchers to fill the gap left by Woodruff.
What's Next
The NLCS begins with Game 1 set for Monday at 8:08 p.m. Eastern on TBS. The Brewers will need to leverage their home-field advantage, having secured the best record in baseball, while the Dodgers aim to overcome their previous defeats against Milwaukee. The outcome of this series will significantly impact both teams' aspirations for the World Series.
