2025-10-17 Brewers at Dodgers Matchup Preview

Starting Pitcher Matchup

The Milwaukee Brewers will send Jose Quintana to the mound. Quintana, a seasoned veteran, will be tasked with navigating a potent Los Angeles Dodgers lineup. His success will largely depend on his ability to locate his pitches effectively and keep the Dodgers hitters off balance. He will need to have above-average command to be able to win this game.
The Dodgers will counter with Shohei Ohtani. Ohtani's repertoire is known for its effectiveness, blending velocity and movement to challenge hitters. The Brewers will need to adjust their approach and be ready to attack early in the count. Ohtani's stamina will be a factor, particularly if the Brewers can extend at-bats and force him to throw a high number of pitches.

Brewers Hitting Analysis

The Brewers' offense in 2025 showcased a collective expected weighted on-base average of .321, demonstrating their capacity to get on base at a solid rate. Their lineup is constructed with a mix of veterans and emerging talents and they have collectively contributed 26.7 wins above replacement. Their ability to consistently produce runs has been a key to their success.
Against Ohtani, the Brewers hitters will need to focus on patience and discipline at the plate. They cannot afford to chase pitches out of the strike zone. If they can work deep counts and force Ohtani to labor, they will increase their chances of capitalizing on mistakes. They also will need to put the ball in play with runners in scoring position.

Dodgers Hitting Analysis

The Dodgers' offense has been a formidable force, evidenced by their expected weighted on-base average of .344. Their lineup is stacked with proven hitters who can deliver in crucial situations. Their team has collectively contributed 28.8 wins above replacement, showcasing their overall talent and impact.
Against Quintana, the Dodgers hitters will aim to exploit his tendency to leave pitches over the plate. They will look to be aggressive early in the count and jump on any hittable pitches. Their ability to drive the ball to all fields will make them a difficult matchup for Quintana.

Key Matchups

A pivotal matchup will be between Brewers' top hitters and Ohtani's ability to keep them contained. The Brewers' batters must avoid getting behind in the count and try to work the count to their advantage, which can change the course of the game. They will also have to have patience against Ohtani who will not want to walk anyone.
Equally important will be how the Dodgers' hitters fare against Quintana's approach. If Quintana can keep the ball down in the zone and mix his pitches effectively, he can neutralize the Dodgers' power. The Dodgers will need to make adjustments and be ready to hit pitches in different locations and speeds.

Intangibles

The energy surrounding this game is expected to be elevated, with both teams vying for a crucial win. The atmosphere at Dodger Stadium will be electric, potentially providing a boost to the home team. How each team handles the pressure will be a key factor in determining the outcome.
The Dodgers will look to leverage their home-field advantage. The Brewers will need to maintain their composure and focus on executing their game plan.

Prediction

This game promises to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams possessing the talent and determination to emerge victorious. The pitching matchup is likely to be a defining factor. The Dodgers offense is expected to come alive with the energy from the home crowd.
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