Dodgers Clinch NLCS Berth with 4-1 Win Over Braves, Set Rematch with Brewers

Key points

• Andy Pages drove in two runs with a bases-loaded single in the seventh inning, giving the Dodgers a 3-1 lead and securing the series-clinching win.
• Max Muncy hit a solo home run in the ninth inning, extending his franchise record to 19 postseason home runs for the Dodgers.
• The Dodgers' bullpen, led by Edwin Diaz, recorded his second save in two nights, helping secure the victory after a shaky start by Tyler Glasnow.
• The Braves committed two errors in the second inning, allowing the Dodgers to tie the game at 1-1, and failed to score with runners in scoring position in 23 of 23 opportunities.
• The Dodgers will face the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLCS, starting Sunday, in a rematch of last year's series where Los Angeles swept Milwaukee.

Background

The Dodgers and Braves had a contentious regular season, with Atlanta winning five of six matchups. The NLDS was tied 1-1 after Game 2, with the Dodgers struggling offensively. The series moved to Atlanta for Games 3 and 4, where the Dodgers won both to advance. This is the Dodgers' ninth NLCS appearance in 14 seasons.

How outlets are covering it

CBS Sports and Bleacher Report both highlight Andy Pages' pivotal seventh-inning hit and Max Muncy's ninth-inning home run as the decisive moments. CBS Sports emphasizes the Dodgers' bullpen performance, particularly Edwin Diaz's saves, while Bleacher Report notes the Braves' struggles with runners in scoring position and the two errors in the second inning. Both sources confirm the Dodgers' advancement to the NLCS and the upcoming rematch with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Why it matters

The Dodgers' victory secures their place in the NLCS and keeps their bid for a third consecutive World Series title alive. The elimination of the Braves, despite their 94 regular-season wins and NL East championship, underscores the Dodgers' resilience and depth. The upcoming NLCS rematch with the Brewers, whom the Dodgers swept last year, sets the stage for a high-stakes series.

What to watch

The Dodgers will face the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLCS, starting Sunday. The Brewers advanced to the NLCS after eliminating the San Diego Padres in four games. The Dodgers will need to address their offensive struggles and rely on their bullpen to secure a spot in the World Series.