The Milwaukee Brewers are heading into the2026 World Series after sweeping the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers 4-0 in the National League Championship Series as their 6-4 victory on Thursday put them within reach of a long-awaited championship as the favorite.
Milwaukee's latest triumph was particularly impressive because the team recovered from a four-run deficit to eliminate Los Angeles as Garrett Mitchell delivered the go-ahead home run in the sixth inning before David Hamilton added another in the ninth on October 15.
Completing a comeback that matched the largest margin overturned to clinch a championship series, the Brewers will face either Cleveland or Tampa Bay, with the Guardians leading the Rays in the American League Championship Series 2-1.
However, rain postponed Game 4, forcing the teams to adjust their schedule as Milwaukee prepares for its return to the Fall Classic – gaining another day of rest and planning over their rivals.
The Brewers last appeared in the World Series in 1982, when they lost to the St. Louis Cardinals in seven games. Now, after finally overcoming the Dodgers, they have an opportunity to win the franchise's first championship.
Milwaukee will be favored against either potential opponent after its commanding performance against Los Angeles as the Brewers have a week to prepare for Game 1, scheduled for October 23 at American Family Field, while Cleveland and Tampa Bay continue their battle for the American League crown.
The Guardians hold the advantage after winning Game 3 by a 3-2 score as Petey Halpin provided the decisive moment with a two-run home run against Tampa Bay, following it with a spectacular bat flip that captured the excitement surrounding Cleveland's postseason run.
Halpin's contribution was another example of Cleveland finding timely production throughout the postseason as Jose Ramirez, Chase DeLauter, Josh Lowe and Jo Adell have also played important roles. At the same time, the Guardians' pitching staff has consistently limited opposing offenses.
Game 4 was rescheduled for Saturday at 20:00 ET/17:00 PT, with Game 5 moved to Sunday at 17:00 ET/14:00 PT.
Games 6 and 7 will take place Monday and Tuesday at Tropicana Field if they are required, potentially forcing both teams to play four consecutive days ahead of the match-up with the Brewers.
The Rays, meanwhile, must win the remaining games to prevent Cleveland from advancing to the World Series. Nick Martinez is starting for Tampa Bay and Shawn Armstrong opening a bullpen game for the Guardians.