The Milwaukee Brewers have a chance to clinch a World Series berth against the Los Angeles Dodgers today, Thursday, October 15, in Game 4 of the 2026 National League Championship Series.
Milwaukee enters with a 3–0 series lead, putting the Brewers one victory away from advancing and the Dodgers one loss away from elimination. FOX Sports
Here’s what each possible outcome means.
What Happens if the Brewers Win Today?
If the Brewers beat the Dodgers in Game 4, Milwaukee wins the NLCS 4–0 and advances to the 2026 World Series.
A victory would:
- Complete a four-game sweep of Los Angeles.
- Secure the National League pennant.
- Eliminate the Dodgers from the postseason.
- End the NLCS without needing Games 5, 6 or 7.
Winning Game 4 would send Milwaukee to the World Series, where it would still need to win another best-of-seven series to become MLB champions.
What Happens if the Brewers Lose Today?
If the Brewers lose Game 4, they remain in the postseason with a 3–1 series lead. The Dodgers would avoid elimination and force Game 5.
Milwaukee would then have three remaining opportunities to secure the one victory it needs. Los Angeles, meanwhile, would have to win Games 5, 6 and 7 to complete a comeback and advance.
A loss today would delay the Brewers’ chance to celebrate, but it would leave them in control of the series.
Brewers vs. Dodgers Game 4: Win-or-Lose Scenarios
| Game 4 result | Series score | What happens next? |
|---|---|---|
| Brewers win | Milwaukee wins 4–0 | Brewers advance to the World Series; Dodgers are eliminated |
| Dodgers win | Milwaukee leads 3–1 | Series continues to Game 5 |
Can the Brewers Be Eliminated Today?
No. The Brewers cannot be eliminated in Game 4. With three wins already secured in a best-of-seven series, Milwaukee would have to lose four consecutive games to lose the NLCS.
The Dodgers face the immediate elimination risk: they must win today to keep their season alive.
How Many More Wins Do the Brewers Need?
The Brewers need one more win to reach the 2026 World Series. A Game 4 victory finishes the job; a defeat carries that same requirement into Game 5.
For Milwaukee, tonight is an opportunity to clinch the pennant. For Los Angeles, it is a must-win game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Brewers reach the World Series if they win today?
Yes. A Game 4 victory would give Milwaukee its fourth NLCS win, clinching the series and a World Series berth.
Are the Brewers out if they lose to the Dodgers today?
No. A loss would make the series 3–1 in Milwaukee’s favor and force Game 5.
Can the Dodgers still win the 2026 NLCS?
Yes. Entering Game 4 down 3–0, the Dodgers must win four straight games to take the series.
Is NLCS Game 4 an elimination game?
Yes—for the Dodgers. Milwaukee can advance with a win, while Los Angeles must win to avoid elimination.