As the Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers face off at Dodger Stadium on July 20, 2025, baseball fans are in for a thrilling conclusion to a three-game series between two National League powerhouses. This matchup pits the NL West-leading Dodgers against the red-hot Brewers, who are riding an impressive nine-game winning streak. With both teams showcasing strong lineups and pitching talent, this game is a potential playoff preview. Let’s dive into the recent performances, key players, and a prediction for the outcome of this exciting contest.
The Brewers have been on fire, entering this game with a 58-40 record and a commanding 9-0 run in their last nine games, including a sweep of the Dodgers in Milwaukee earlier this month. Their 2-0 victory on July 18 and 8-7 thriller on July 19 in Los Angeles have given them a 7-0 edge over the Dodgers in their last seven meetings. Milwaukee’s offense, led by players like Christian Yelich and Andrew Vaughn, has been clutch, while their pitching staff, including standout performances from Freddy Peralta and Quinn Priester, has kept opponents in check
Key Players to Watch
Milwaukee Brewers:
- Jose Quintana (Starting Pitcher): Quintana takes the mound with a 3.28 ERA and a strong track record against the Dodgers (2.00 ERA in 14 career appearances). His last outing against them on July 9 was stellar, allowing just one run over six innings. Expect him to keep the Dodgers’ bats quiet early.
- Christian Yelich: The outfielder has been a difference-maker, hitting a two-run homer in the series opener. His ability to get on base and drive in runs will be crucial.
- Bullpen Strength: Milwaukee’s relief corps, featuring Abner Uribe, Jared Koenig, and closer Trevor Megill (19 saves), has been lights-out, especially in high-leverage situations.
Los Angeles Dodgers:
- Clayton Kershaw (Starting Pitcher): The veteran lefty, fresh off his 3,000th career strikeout, has a 3.38 ERA this season. Despite a solid outing against the Brewers on July 9 (6 IP, 2 R), he took the loss. Kershaw’s experience could be key in stopping Milwaukee’s momentum.
- Shohei Ohtani: The designated hitter is a force, with 33 homers and a .983 OPS. His ability to exploit Quintana’s occasional mistakes could swing the game in LA’s favor.
- Freddie Freeman: Hitting .321 at home with an .884 OPS, Freeman is a reliable bat in the clutch and a strong DFS pick for this matchup.
Head-to-Head and Stats
Historically, the Dodgers hold a slight edge in head-to-head matchups since 1998, with 66 wins to Milwaukee’s 54. However, the Brewers have dominated recently, winning seven straight against LA, including a historic home sweep earlier this month. Milwaukee’s offense ranks seventh in runs scored (457) and second in stolen bases (110), while the Dodgers lead the league in runs (518) and rank second in team OPS (.776). Pitching-wise, the Brewers’ bullpen (4.07 ERA) outshines LA’s (4.46 ERA), giving Milwaukee an edge in late innings
Prediction
This game hinges on pitching and momentum. Jose Quintana’s familiarity with the Dodgers and Milwaukee’s elite bullpen give the Brewers a slight advantage. Clayton Kershaw is a legend, but his 4.19 FIP suggests he’s vulnerable, especially against a Brewers lineup that’s clicking on all cylinders. The Dodgers’ offense, led by Ohtani and Freeman, will keep them in the game, but their recent struggles and depleted pitching staff make it tough to overcome Milwaukee’s surge.
Predicted Outcome: Brewers 5, Dodgers 3
The Brewers are likely to capitalize on their momentum and bullpen strength to take the series finale. Quintana should keep the Dodgers’ bats in check, while Yelich and company provide enough offense to secure a tenth straight win. The Dodgers may avoid a shutout, but their recent skid against Milwaukee is hard to ignore. Expect a competitive game, but the Brewers’ current form makes them the safer bet
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