Brewers Embrace Underdog Tag in NLCS — Dodgers Unmoved

The stage is set for a fascinating clash in the National League Championship Series. The Milwaukee Brewers, fresh off a franchise-record 97 wins, prepare to take on the star-studded Los Angeles Dodgers.

Despite owning baseball’s best record, the Brewers enter the series labeled as underdogs. FanGraphs gives them just a 29.1% chance to win.

What makes this matchup compelling? It’s not just the difference in payrolls or market size.

It’s the psychological and strategic battle between two teams built very differently. Both seem primed for October glory, but in such different ways.

The Underdog Narrative: Small Market vs. Heavyweights

Brewers manager Pat Murphy has really leaned into the “Average Joes” persona. He’s compared his small-market squad to the Dodgers’ galaxy of All-Stars and their staggering $396 million payroll.

This theme has struck a chord with fans. They love the David vs. Goliath feel of the series, and it’s become a rallying cry in the clubhouse, too.

Embracing the Image Without Losing Focus

Players like Christian Yelich and Caleb Durbin hear all the talk, but they don’t let it distract them.

Their focus stays inside the team. There’s a quiet confidence—less about shutting up doubters, more about sticking to their plan, one pitch at a time.

Murphy’s Tactical Mind Games

Murphy’s known for his gamesmanship, and he’s not shy about it. He’s gone out of his way to compliment Dodgers stars like Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts.

These public nods show respect, sure, but they’re also a little bit of gamesmanship—keeping pressure off his own guys and maybe shifting expectations just a bit.

Press Conferences as Part of the Strategy

During media sessions, Murphy brings some levity. He jokes with Japanese reporters covering Shohei Ohtani and weaves in humor when things could get tense.

That’s all part of his approach. He knows a loose team is a dangerous one in October.

The Dodgers Unfazed by the Label

On the other side, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and pitcher Blake Snell don’t buy into Milwaukee’s underdog storyline.

Roberts praises the Brewers’ organizational depth and player development. He especially points to their bullpen—a group built for playoff baseball.

Respect for the Brewers’ Blueprint

By applauding Milwaukee’s fundamentals, Roberts defuses any notion that the Dodgers are underestimating them.

For Los Angeles, it’s about execution. They’ll stick to what’s made them contenders for so many years.

Key Matchups That Could Decide the Series

This NLCS is going to be a chess match. One headline battle: Blake Snell’s strikeout-heavy approach against the Brewers’ patient lineup.

If Milwaukee works counts, they could force Snell out early and test the Dodgers’ bullpen. Meanwhile, the Brewers will lean on their relief corps to hold off the Dodgers’ relentless offense.

• The Brewers’ bullpen depth vs. the Dodgers’ late-game power.
• Christian Yelich’s ability to produce against elite pitching.
• How Brewers’ plate discipline challenges strikeout pitchers like Snell.
• The influence of Murphy’s leadership in tight, high-leverage situations.

Why This Series Matters Beyond the Wins and Losses

The Brewers’ journey says a lot about today’s MLB. Small-market clubs can still dream big, even with those financial gaps.

Each inning is a fight for a championship berth. But it’s also a nod to smart scouting, clever roster moves, and a clubhouse that actually believes.

The Mental Edge Could Be the Deciding Factor

October baseball often comes down to who can handle the pressure. Murphy wants his team to have that mental edge.

He mixes respect for the opposition with humor and keeps the focus on internal goals. Milwaukee heads into the series with a mindset built for resilience.

As Yelich put it, the Brewers know exactly what they’re up against—they’re facing baseball’s richest powerhouse. But in the playoffs, payrolls don’t swing bats or throw pitches.

This NLCS should bring plenty of intensity and strategy. Maybe we’ll even get an upset that’s perfect for October.

Fans everywhere are watching to see if Milwaukee’s “Average Joes” can turn that underdog label into something legendary.

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Here is the source article for this story: The Brewers are pegging themselves as underdogs in the NLCS. The Dodgers say they aren’t falling for it.