Dodgers Dominate, Advance to World Series After Sweeping Brewers
The Los Angeles Dodgers are heading back to the World Series after completing a dominant four-game sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Dodgers secured their spot with a 5-1 victory on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, setting the stage for a bid to win back-to-back championships.
Shohei Ohtani led the charge for the Dodgers, delivering a stellar performance on both sides of the ball. Ohtani pitched six innings, striking out 10 batters although allowing just two hits and three walks. He also made a significant impact at the plate, launching three home runs in the game – a historic feat for a pitcher in postseason play. This performance marks a turning point for Ohtani, shaking off recent struggles and solidifying his position as a key player.
The Dodgers’ pitching depth was further showcased with Sasaki Kosuke closing out the game to secure the win. The team’s success is fueled by a strong Japanese contingent, including Ohtani, Yamamoto Yoshinobu, and Sasaki.
This victory marks the Dodgers’ fourth consecutive win in the series. The last time a Major League Baseball team achieved back-to-back championships was 25 years ago, when the New York Yankees secured a three-peat. The Dodgers will now face the winner of the Toronto Blue Jays versus Seattle Mariners series in the World Series.
Ohtani’s performance included a first-inning home run, followed by solo shots in the fourth and seventh innings. He became the first pitcher in Major League Baseball history to hit three home runs in a single postseason game.
The Dodgers’ impressive run is also attracting significant financial attention. Forbes reports that the team is projected to become the first North American professional sports team to reach $200 million in annual sponsorship revenue. This surge is largely attributed to the signing of Japanese stars like Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Sasaki.
Yamamoto Yoshinobu also played a crucial role in the Dodgers’ success, earning the World Series MVP with an incredible performance that included three wins and consecutive days pitching. The “Japanese Three Musketeers” – Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Sasaki – have redefined baseball history with their dominant performances throughout the 2025 MLB season.
In a recent spring training game, Ohtani showcased his two-way prowess once again, pitching four innings and striking out 11 batters while also recording one hit. This marked his first “two-way” appearance of the season, drawing praise from Japanese media for his impressive curveball.
Sasaki Kosuke’s “nuclear-level” performance has also earned him a spot in the starting rotation.