Milwaukee takes Game 1 of the NLDS behind Freddy Peralta, who spun 5.2 innings of two-run ball and punched out nine, tying a Brewers postseason K record. Chicago’s Matthew Boyd couldn’t find the strike zone early, lasting just a sliver of an inning before Michael Soroka came on to steady the ship. Milwaukee jumped in front and never looked back, cruising to a 9-3 win.

The milestone nine-K night places Peralta among Brewers playoff legends and injects momentum into Milwaukee as they head to Chicago. The Cubs face an uphill climb after Boyd’s rough start, while Counsell’s bullpen management and timely hitting underscored Milwaukee’s depth in a potential long series.

Milwaukee rode MLB’s best record (97 wins) to NLDS home-field advantage against Chicago, with Freddy Peralta and Quinn Priester set to start Games 1 and 2. William Contreras’ bruised hand is being managed, but he’s expected to play through the pain. With Quintana and Woodruff sidelined late, Milwaukee must lean on depth, health, and timely hitting to outlast the Cubs.

Contreras anchors Milwaukee’s lineup at a .260/.355/.399 clip with 17 homers and 76 RBI, and his presence behind the plate remains critical even if not at 100%. The Brewers’ path hinges on a sharp rotation, solid defense, and bullpen leverage to push for an NLCS return not seen since 2018. Game 1 kicks off Saturday at 1:08 p.m. ET.

William Contreras is set to start Game 1 of the NLDS for Milwaukee despite a bruised left hand, with Pat Murphy confident in his availability. The catcher posted a .260/.355/.399 line including 17 home runs and 76 RBIs over 150 games, and has shown resilience through the season. Milwaukee holds the top NL seed and awaits the NLWC winner between Chicago and San Diego. Brandon Woodruff’s status is still pending, but Contreras’ readiness adds a clear offensive spark for the Brewers.

The Brewers’ position as favorites hinges on a balanced lineup and bullpen depth, with Contreras helping anchor a potent attack while the pitching staff navigates the rotation if Woodruff isn’t fully ready. The upcoming clash promises a run-producing, edge-driven series as Milwaukee pursuit of the NLDS continues.

Milwaukee closes in on home-field as a two-game magic number drives the finish. A Brewers win paired with a Phillies loss on Wednesday would seal the top seed, even as injuries to Woodruff, Quintana and Megill test the rotation. Rookie Chad Patrick starts as Milwaukee eyes a Friday date with Cincinnati after facing San Diego.

San Diego’s Dylan Cease caps the regular season in a duel that could reshape playoff bullpen plans, while Miami’s seven-game win streak and Philadelphia’s results keep the race tight. Freddy Peralta hits a notable Brewers milestone, underscoring depth as October looms.