A-Rod Warns Dodgers and Brewers About Bullpen Usage

A-Rod warned the Dodgers and Brewers that their reliance on the bullpen is 'unsustainable' after the Milwaukee Brewers took a 2-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the NLCS. The game took place on October 11, 2026, at American Family Field.

Despite an unexpected performance from ace Jacob Misiorowski, who lasted only 4 1/3 innings, giving up one run on five hits, three walks, and five strikeouts, the Brewers' bullpen managed to hold off the Dodgers. DL Hall, Abner Uribe, Aaron Ashby, and Trevor Megill combined for 4 2/3 scoreless innings, with Megill earning the save after working around two walks in the ninth.

Derek Jeter expressed surprise at the outcome, stating if he had known Misiorowski would pitch less than five innings, he would have expected a Milwaukee loss. He acknowledged that the team has been designed for such tight games, noting, "The Milwaukee Brewers have been playing these types of games all season long ... you would anticipate this series being low scoring throughout."

Alex Rodriguez remarked that this year's series felt distinct from last year's, where the Dodgers swept the Brewers. He stated, "We were here last year, and last year definitely felt like David versus Goliath ... it feels like Goliath versus Goliath."

However, he expressed concern regarding the pitching strategy, highlighting that neither starting pitcher threw a pitch in the fifth inning. "It is unsustainable in a seven-game series to depend on 12-15 outs from the bullpen. The more the hitters get to see you, advantage: hitters," Rodriguez cautioned.

The Dodgers and Brewers will continue their NLCS matchup on Monday with Game 2 at American Family Field, with coverage beginning at 4 p.m. ET on FOX.