Murphy’s second-year squad hopes pitching and poise carry into October
MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin (AP) — In his second season as manager, Pat Murphy has the Milwaukee Brewers right where they wanted to be — back in the postseason, armed with home-field advantage and a belief that this year’s team has the balance to go the distance.
After winning a franchise-record 97 games, the Brewers enter the 2025 playoffs as the National League’s top seed. Their approach hasn’t changed: win with pitching, defense and consistency. It’s a formula that doesn’t always dominate headlines but continues to win baseball games.
Pitching Leads the Way
Milwaukee’s identity still begins on the mound. Freddy Peralta, who starts Game 1 of the Division Series, turned in the best season of his career, going 17–6 with a 2.70 ERA. The right-hander’s command, strikeout ability and composure have made him one of the league’s most reliable starters.
With Brandon Woodruff sidelined by a right lat strain, Peralta’s steady presence looms large. Quinn Priester and José Quintana provide depth behind him, while Milwaukee’s bullpen remains one of baseball’s most dependable.
Trevor Megill has anchored the ninth inning, while Abner Uribe and Aaron Ashby have thrived in setup and multi-inning roles. Murphy has managed aggressively all season, often turning games into six-inning efforts and letting his relievers handle the rest.
Offense Built on Patience and Pressure
The Brewers’ offense has been less about fireworks and more about execution. Christian Yelich rediscovered his rhythm this season, reaching base at an elite clip and setting the tone at the top of the order. William Contreras continued his rise as one of the league’s most consistent hitters, driving in runs and managing the pitching staff with veteran poise.
Jackson Chourio, Brice Turang, and Sal Frelick have brought athleticism and range, while young depth pieces have filled roles with versatility and energy. Milwaukee’s lineup thrives on making opponents uncomfortable — drawing walks, stealing bases and capitalizing on mistakes. It’s a patient, persistent style that plays well in October.
Defensively, the Brewers have been among the league’s best. The infield turns double plays efficiently, and the outfield’s speed erases extra-base hits. That reliability, paired with pitching depth, gives Milwaukee the kind of margin that wins playoff games decided by inches.
Rivalry Renewed
The Brewers’ opponent adds intrigue. The Chicago Cubs, led by former Milwaukee manager Craig Counsell, arrive after a three-game Wild Card victory over San Diego. The two teams split a competitive season series, and now they’ll meet for the first time under postseason lights.
Chicago counters with veteran left-hander Matt Boyd, who went 14–8 with a 3.21 ERA. Boyd’s mix of offspeed pitches and command has kept him effective against right-handers all season, setting up a fascinating contrast against Milwaukee’s disciplined lineup.
For Murphy and the Brewers, the approach doesn’t change now that October has arrived. They’ll trust their pitching, rely on defense, and look for timely offense — the formula that’s carried them to this point.
NLDS Game 1: Brewers vs. Cubs
- Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025
- Time: 2:08 p.m. ET (1:08 p.m. CT)
- Location: American Family Field, Milwaukee
- TV / Streaming: TBS, available on Max
- Pitching Matchup: Freddy Peralta (MIL, 17–6, 2.70 ERA) vs. Matt Boyd (CHC, 14–8, 3.21 ERA)
The stage is set for October in Milwaukee. The Brewers have the pitching, the depth and the confidence. Now it’s time to see if their formula can finally deliver the deep playoff run this city has been waiting for.
Check out all EasySportz MLB Content Here!
Winners and Losers of CFB Week 5!
