The Los Angeles Dodgers' dynasty came to an abrupt end in 2026 when they were swept by the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series (NLCS). Dodgers manager Dave Roberts made several questionable choices throughout the series, sparking intense criticism. Notably, in Game 3, Roberts kept starting pitcher Blake Snell in despite a rising pitch count, which led to back-to-back home runs by the Brewers. In Game 4, Roberts relied heavily on relief pitcher Edwin Díaz, who was returning from injury and had minimal innings pitched that season, ultimately giving up a crucial home run in the ninth inning.

This loss starkly contrasts Roberts' previous success, as he was praised for his brilliant management during the Dodgers’ 2024 NLCS victory against the New York Mets. However, this year, his decisions such as sticking too long with certain pitchers, not executing well-timed bunts, and frequent lineup tinkering did not pay off. Fans and analysts alike questioned Roberts' tactics, especially in critical moments like leaving Snell on the mound during Game 3’s seventh inning, which allowed the Brewers to seize momentum and take the lead.

Game 4 also featured strategic missteps, including opting not to move base runners into scoring position via bunts when opportunities presented themselves. Instead, Roberts chose a pinch hitter who struck out, limiting the Dodgers’ scoring potential despite an early lead aided by Shohei Ohtani’s three-run homer. The reliance on Díaz for extended innings was another gamble that backfired, as the Brewers capitalized on his fatigue to secure insurance runs that ultimately sealed the Dodgers’ fate.

Despite these critiques, Roberts himself acknowledged the Dodgers were outplayed overall by the Brewers, emphasizing that no single managerial decision was solely responsible for the defeat. The sweep revealed broader shortcomings in the Dodgers’ performance and execution, rather than just managerial errors, though Roberts’ choices will surely be dissected and debated by fans and analysts for years to come.