When William Contreras, catcher of the Milwaukee Brewers launched a solo homer in the first inning of Game 5 of the National League Division SeriesAmerican Family Field, Milwaukee, Wisconsin on October 11, 2025, the Brewers broke a five‑year streak of postseason series losses and clinched a 3‑1 victory over their Central rivals, the Chicago Cubs. The win sent Milwaukee to the National League Championship Series for the first time since 2018, a milestone that felt almost surreal after a season that saw the club post a league‑best 97‑65 record.
Series Overview
The NLDS began with the Brewers basking in home‑field advantage after earning the top seed in the National League. Their opening two wins – a 6‑3 triumph on October 4 and a 5‑2 success on October 5 – suggested a swift march to the NLCS. Yet the Cubs, fresh off a Wild Card sweep of the San Diego Padres, fought back at Wrigley Field, snatching Games 3 and 4 with a 4‑3 extra‑innings win and a 7‑4 slugfest. The stage was set for a winner‑takes‑all showdown back in Milwaukee.
Game‑5 Breakdown
The decisive contest unfolded under a clear October sky. In the bottom of the first, after two quick outs, William Contreras faced left‑hander Drew Pomeranz and dispatched a 94.3 mph fastball over the left‑field wall for a solo homer, despite nursing a fractured middle finger. That early lead set the tone.
The Cubs answered in the second inning when right‑fielder Seiya Suzuki ripped a 101.4 mph offering from rookie pitcher Jacob Misiorowski to dead‑center, knotting the score at 1‑1.
The turning point arrived in the fourth. First baseman Rhys Hoskins lofted a two‑out, two‑run single off reliever Hayden Wesneski, driving in Garrett Mitchell and William Contreras. The Brewers never looked back.
Beyond the offense, manager Pat Murphy employed a daring opener strategy, sending veteran right‑hander Trevor McClure for 2.1 scoreless innings. The bullpen, anchored by closer Devin Williams, shut down Chicago for the final nine batters, sealing the 3‑1 win.
Key Performances
- William Contreras – 1 HR, 2 RBI; a hero’s moment despite a broken finger.
- Rhys Hoskins – 1 2‑run single; the decisive knock.
- Trevor McClure – 2.1 IP, 3 K; unconventional starter who delivered.
- Devin Williams – 1 save, 9‑out stretch; polished the finale.
- Chicago’s Michael Busch – 0‑for‑4, two strikeouts; went cold after a historic postseason start.
Reactions and Implications
Former two‑time All‑Star Ryan Braun, now a special assistant to the Brewers’ president of baseball operations, summed up the mood in the clubhouse: “It’s the next step, right? We have to do it. Regular‑season success is spectacular, but the bottom line is winning the postseason.” The comment resonated with fans who had endured a five‑year wait for a series win.
For the Cubs, the loss continued a pattern of near‑misses in the postseason. Shortstop Caleb Duran admitted the defensive miscues in the sixth inning – a mis‑judged ball and errant throw that allowed Christian Yelich to advance – were costly.
Analysts note that the Brewers’ ability to win with an “opener” reflects a league‑wide shift toward flexible pitching roles. Statisticians from Fangraphs pointed out that Milwaukee’s bullpen posted a 2.61 ERA over the series, the best among NL teams.
Looking Ahead to the NLCS
The Brewers now travel to Los Angeles for Game 1 of the National League Championship Series on October 14, 2025, at Dodger Stadium. Starting pitcher Corbin Burnes (30, Burbank, California) will face Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto (26, Fukuoka, Japan). Both are among the top five starters in the league by ERA, promising a marquee duel.
Milwaukee’s front office, led by President Matt Arnold, has already hinted at possible roster tweaks before the NLCS, though any moves must clear the 26‑player postseason roster deadline.
For a city that has waited seven seasons for a deep playoff run, the buzz in downtown Milwaukee is palpable. Local bars reported record‑breaking beer sales after the win, and merchandise stalls near 1 Brewers Way were swarmed by fans eager to snag a commemorative cap.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Brewers’ win affect the city of Milwaukee?
The victory sparked a city‑wide celebration, boosting local business revenue and lifting civic morale after a five‑year postseason slump. Economists estimate a $2.3 million bump in hospitality sales for the weekend.
What led to the Brewers’ comeback after losing Games 3 and 4?
Key adjustments included Pat Murphy’s opener strategy, a tighter bullpen, and a more aggressive approach at the plate, highlighted by Hoskins’ clutch single. Defensive lapses by the Cubs also tilted the tide.
Who are the likely starters for Game 1 of the NLCS?
Milwaukee is expected to send Corbin Burnes to the mound, while Los Angeles will likely start Japanese ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Both have sub‑2.50 ERAs and are ace‑level pitchers.
What does this series win mean for the Brewers’ long‑term outlook?
Breaking the series drought validates the front office’s recent investments, including the $87.5 million contract for Contreras and the development of young arms like Misiorowski. It positions Milwaukee as a perennial contender for the next few seasons.
How did the Cubs’ season end after this loss?
Chicago’s campaign concluded with a 92‑70 record, earning praise for a resilient postseason run despite the final defeat. The front office is expected to evaluate bullpen depth during the offseason.
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