The Milwaukee Brewers stand on the brink of their first-ever World Series title with a 3-1 lead over the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2026 championship. Despite the Rays staving off a sweep with a commanding 12-2 win in 12 innings on October 27, sparked by a throwing error from Brewers third baseman Joey Ortiz and a four-hit performance including a 22-year-old shortstop Cooper Pratt’s clutch home run, the Brewers remain poised to close out the series. Game 5 is set for October 28 at Tropicana Field with the Brewers aiming to clinch the championship.

The Brewers will rely on their young ace, 24-year-old Jacob Misiorowski, to seal the title. Misiorowski, a two-time All-Star who won Game 1 of the series, finished the regular season with outstanding numbers: a 16-5 record, a 1.80 ERA, and a 0.82 WHIP across 30 starts. Known for his high-velocity fastball throwing up to 104 mph and a challenging mix of cutter, slider, and curveball, Misiorowski is considered one of baseball’s most intriguing pitchers this season.

Selected in the second round of the 2022 MLB draft and signed for $2.35 million, Misiorowski remains under a modest $788,300 contract and won’t be arbitration-eligible until 2029 or a free agent until 2032, highlighting his value as a top payroll bargain. Brewers manager Pat Murphy has carefully managed Misiorowski’s workload, especially after a significant increase in innings pitched this year, ensuring the young star stays fresh for critical postseason moments.

The Brewers last reached the World Series in 1982, losing to the St. Louis Cardinals, and this franchise marks their first chance to win the championship since moving to the National League. With Misiorowski starting Game 5 to try for his second World Series win, the Brewers will look to capitalize on their commanding position and finally bring a title to Milwaukee on October 28.