As cited by Dodger Nation, Walter shut down speculation that his recent divestments from the Los Angeles Lakers and Chelsea FC signaled a pending exit from Chavez Ravine. Instead, Walter reaffirmed his long-term commitment to the Dodgers, emphasizing that the organization’s sole focus remains retooling for another World Series run.

If the Dodgers were ever shopped on the open market, sports business analysts estimate the powerhouse franchise would easily fetch between $8 billion and $10 billion-plus. Guggenheim Baseball Management acquired the club in 2012 for a then-record $2.15 billion, but surging enterprise values, lucrative regional and national broadcast rights, and brand global appeal have drastically shifted franchise economics.

Beyond executive-suite chatter, the front office faces an aggressive roster overhaul, including rampant trade buzz connecting Los Angeles to Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal. After falling short against the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLCS, the Dodgers are determined to fix their postseason deficiencies and capture the pennant.

Why did Walter divest his stakes in the Lakers and Chelsea?

Walter agreed to part with his stake in the Lakers at a record $12.5 billion valuation, just years after entering the ownership group at a $10 billion figure. The opportunistic transaction netted an estimated $2.5 billion paper gain that proved too substantial to pass up.

Across the Atlantic at Chelsea FC, Walter and co-investor Todd Boehly ceded their minority holdings to private equity firm Clearlake Capital. The exit followed philosophical friction over club governance and the redevelopment roadmap for Stamford Bridge, effectively granting Clearlake uninhibited operational control.

Together, the moves enabled Walter to monetize peak sports asset valuations and unlock historic levels of liquidity. That capital influx streamlines his holdings, optimizes Guggenheim’s balance sheet, and provides maximum flexibility across his sprawling business portfolio.

Key takeaways

• Mark Walter denied rumors regarding a potential sale of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
• Analysts estimate the Los Angeles Dodgers could fetch $8 billion to $10 billion-plus.
• Walter parted with his Los Angeles Lakers stake at a $12.5 billion valuation.

“So much of that was betting on the true talent of those guys and while the regular season did not go the way anyone expected, their contributions in the postseason were massive,” Gomes said. “Really looking forward to next year for those guys.”

With both players anchored in Los Angeles—alongside ace Tarik Skubal, whose long-term future remains a key storyline—the Dodgers aim to rebound in 2027 and recapture World Series glory following their back-to-back titles in 2024 and 2025.

Another major focal point in Los Angeles was the late-season performance of Shohei Ohtani. The Japanese superstar struggled to find his dominant form in October after racing back from an injury sustained in the closing weeks of the regular season.

Diaz and Tucker’s performances in the 2026 MLB season

Across 21 regular-season appearances, Diaz struggled to an inflated 8.68 ERA and a 1.98 WHIP over 18.2 innings, battling command issues and giving up crucial late-game hits. While he managed to secure seven saves, he frequently pitched through traffic on the basepaths. However, the fiery reliever found redemption in October, delivering multiple scoreless relief outings to stabilize the back end of the bullpen when the Dodgers needed it most.

For Tucker, the 2026 campaign was marked by flashes of production bookending a lengthy middle-of-the-season injury absence. Tucker finished his abbreviated regular season hitting .239 with 70 hits, seven home runs, and 44 RBIs across 80 games.

His refined plate discipline and smooth left-handed swing remained vital assets, allowing him to maintain a solid on-base percentage and deliver timely hits with runners in scoring position.

Key takeaways

• Brandon Gomes praised Kyle Tucker and Edwin Diaz’s postseason contributions despite regular-season struggles.
• Edwin Diaz recorded a 8.68 ERA and a 1.98 WHIP across 21 regular-season appearances.
• Kyle Tucker posted a .239 batting average with 7 home runs and 44 RBIs.

According to ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, a mega-extension from the Dodgers appears unlikely at this juncture. “It would be really difficult for the Dodgers to justify signing Skubal to a massive deal before knowing what MLB’s economic model will look like… It would be a major risk to sign Skubal before knowing what they’re signing up for,” Gonzalez wrote.

That reporting—coupled with rumors positioning the New York Mets as early frontrunners for his services—has amplified anticipation around whether Skubal will ultimately anchor the Dodgers’ rotation in 2027 and beyond.

As the front office shifts focus to rebounding from a crushing NLCS defeat at the hands of the Milwaukee Brewers, the Dodgers fanbase remains eager for clarity on the club’s winter blueprint to launch a 2027 World Series run.

Skubal’s current contract situation

Skubal previously secured a historic $32 million salary—the largest single-year award for an arbitration-eligible player in Major League Baseball history—after prevailing in his hearing against a $19 million filing from his former team, the Detroit Tigers.

The Dodgers acquired the two-time Cy Young Award winner from Detroit ahead of the trade deadline after the Tigers were unable to lock him up long-term. Represented by agent Scott Boras, Skubal had previously turned down a four-year, $75 million extension offer from Detroit to preserve his path toward open market free agency.

Because Los Angeles acquired Skubal without a pre-negotiated extension, the starter will hit unrestricted free agency at the end of the 2026 postseason. Set to command one of the most lucrative pitching contracts in baseball history, analysts project Skubal’s mega-deal could range between $300 million and $400 million.

Key takeaways

• Alden Gonzalez reported a mega-extension for Tarik Skubal from the Dodgers appears unlikely.
• New York Mets have emerged as early frontrunners to acquire Tarik Skubal in free agency.
• Skubal previously secured a historic $32 million salary through arbitration before arriving in Los Angeles.

With rumors swirling about a potential move to the New York Mets, Skubal offered a firm response when pressed by reporters following the Dodgers’ elimination. “I’m really not going to comment on my future,” Skubal said.

In a series where Milwaukee’s starting rotation put up historical postseason numbers, the Dodgers never found their rhythm. With Shohei Ohtani struggling for much of the series, the Brewers proved why they enter the Fall Classic as clear favorites.

As Milwaukee awaits the winner of the ALCS between the Cleveland Guardians and Tampa Bay Rays, the Brewers look fully equipped to capture a championship.

Highlights that defined the Dodgers’ NLCS exit

While individual moments provided brief sparks—such as Shohei Ohtani’s 428-foot home run in Game 4—systemic breakdowns ultimately dictated Los Angeles’ exit. Even in Game 4, when starter Tyler Glasnow opened with three perfect innings to build an early 4–0 lead, the Dodgers’ pitching staff unraveled in the middle and late frames.

Throughout the four-game sweep, Los Angeles repeatedly failed to capitalize on run-scoring opportunities. In a 7–4 Game 2 loss, the Dodgers went hitless with runners in scoring position. Later in Game 4, trailing late, Will Smith hit a one-out triple in the bottom of the eighth to put the tying run just 90 feet away. Reliever Aaron Ashby promptly slammed the door, stranding Smith with a shallow popout and a strikeout of Teoscar Hernandez.

To make matters worse, the top of the lineup lacked any consistency.Outside of Ohtani’s lone blast in Game 4, the core of the order failed to build sustained pressure. Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman struggled to deliver in high-leverage spots late in Games 2, 3, and 4, cementing a swift exit for the defending champions.

Key takeaways

• Milwaukee Brewers won the NL pennant following a four-game sweep of the Dodgers.
• Ace Tarik Skubal declined to comment on rumors linking him to the Mets.
• Shohei Ohtani hit a 428-foot home run for Los Angeles in Game 4.

Chief among Los Angeles’ postseason disappointments has been Shohei Ohtani. Despite his October struggles, manager Dave Roberts stood by his superstar, inserting him back into the lineup for Game 3. However, Ohtani’s production continues to fall well short of expectations, and the Dodgers’ offense is feeling the strain.

Meanwhile, the Brewers have ridden a dominant starting rotation since Game 2, with Milwaukee’s pitching staff putting together a historic postseason run not seen in Major League Baseball in decades.

What happens if the Dodgers win Game 4 against the Brewers?

If the Dodgers beat the Brewers in Game 4, they will keep their season alive and force a Game 5 in the NLCS. That would mark a massive turning point for Los Angeles as they attempt to climb out of a 3-0 series deficit.

For the Brewers, a loss would mark a temporary bump in the road after an otherwise dominant NLCS run, one driven by complete synergy between their offense and defense throughout the postseason.

What happens if the Dodgers and Brewers tie?

If the Dodgers and Brewers are tied after nine innings, they will play standard extra innings until a winner is decided. Postseason rules do not use the regular-season automatic runner on second base, so play continues under traditional baseball rules—half-inning by half-inning—until one team holds a lead at the end of a complete inning or the home team delivers a walk-off victory.

What happens if the Dodgers lose to the Brewers?

If the Dodgers lose to the Brewers, they will be eliminated from the postseason, officially ending their World Series defense. For Milwaukee, a win would punch their ticket to the Fall Classic, capping an outstanding year-long campaign with a pennant.

The Brewers would then await the winner of the ALCS between the Cleveland Guardians and Tampa Bay Rays, a highly anticipated matchup featuring two teams operating at a high level.

Key takeaways

• A victory in Game 4 would force a Game 5 for the Dodgers.
• A loss in Game 4 would eliminate the Dodgers from the postseason.
• The Brewers’ pitching staff has put together a strong performance in the NLCS.

Pat Murphy has led his team to an excellent campaign, both during the regular season and in the postseason. The goal of eliminating the defending champions is within reach, although anything can still happen.

For Dave Roberts, the Dodgers‘ chances of achieving a three-peat are dwindling, and another setback could put their title defense in serious jeopardy. Who will ultimately come out on top in this intriguing series?

What happens if Dodgers win vs Brewers?

If the Dodgers manage to defeat the Brewers, they will secure their first win of the series. Milwaukee would then hold a 2-1 lead, meaning Game 4 would not yet be decisive.

Game 4 will also take place at Dodger Stadium on Thursday, October 15. First pitch is scheduled for 9 PM ET.

What happens if the Dodgers and Brewers tie?

If Game 3 of the NLCS is tied after 9 innings, the Dodgers and Brewers will play standard extra innings until a winner is decided. Postseason rules do not use the regular-season automatic runner on second base, so play continues with normal baseball rules—half-inning by half-inning—until one team holds a lead at the end of a complete inning or the home team scores a walk-off run.

What happens if the Dodgers lose to the Brewers?

Another Dodgers loss would be the worst-case scenario. The Brewers would take a 3-0 lead in the series, and since the NLCS is a best-of-seven series, one more win would complete the sweep of Los Angeles and secure Milwaukee’s spot in the World Series.

Key takeaways

• Los Angeles Dodgers host Game 3 of the NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers at Dodger Stadium.
• Milwaukee Brewers hold a 2-1 lead if the Dodgers win, with Game 4 scheduled next.
• Milwaukee Brewers would take a 3-0 series lead if they defeat the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Roberts made it clear that Ohtani will be in the lineup for Game 3: “In this moment, we’re listening to Shohei and we’re supporting the crap out of him, and that’s it. He could go out there and throw up four hits or no hits, and it doesn’t change our process and believing in him,” Roberts told reporters.

Ohtani’s cold spell extends back into the regular season, as he hasn’t hit a home run since August 18. Over his last 107 plate appearances overall, the slugger is batting just .156/.283/.200.

After Milwaukee’s rotation delivered a dominant performance in Game 2, Ohtani now faces a pivotal opportunity in Game 3 to jumpstart the Dodgers‘ offense and show why he remains the cornerstone of L.A.’s pennant chase.

Ohtani’s post-IL struggles

Despite a brief stint on the injured list intended to restore his lower-body power, Shohei Ohtani’s offensive production has plummeted since his late-September activation. Across six postseason games against the Braves and Brewers, he is batting just .150 (3-for-20) with no home runs, no RBIs, and zero extra-base hits.

Scouts and team personnel note that his knee injury has compromised his ability to drive off his back leg. The resulting mechanical adjustments and subtle swing delay have given opposing pitchers a clear blueprint to exploit him inside the strike zone.

With Los Angeles heading home to Dodger Stadium for Game 3, the Dodgers will need their superstar to rediscover his stroke—and quick—if they hope to take control of the series in front of a friendly crowd.

Key takeaways

• Dave Roberts confirmed Shohei Ohtani will remain in the Dodgers’ Game 3 lineup.
• Ohtani is batting just .156/.283/.200 over his last 107 overall plate appearances.
• A knee injury has compromised Ohtani’s ability to drive off his back leg.

And in the City That Never Sleeps, the two organizations are wide awake, daydreaming of the day they will go all the way again. That’s a road that could very well lead them to hand Skubal the piggy-bank-shattering contract he’s after, which he’ll surely get before the 2027 MLB campaign.

According to a report, if it comes down to a three-horse race between the Dodgers, Yankees, and Mets—and it very well could—the latter may have the upper hand. The Orange and Blue are the most desperate of the bunch, which is saying a lot, and that could make David Stearns and Steve Cohen sign on the dotted line for a contract that can make the hairs on Skubal’s right arm stand up.

“The Skubal sweepstakes could come down to which of the Mets, Dodgers or Yankees would be most willing to take the risk. And of those three clubs, the Mets may have the clearest need for a No. 1 starter this winter,” Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report stated.

Skubal’s contract projections

“The average projected contract was eight years and $355 million, which is a $44.6 million average annual value (AAV),” Kiley McDaniel of ESPN reported on the situation as the MLB landscape gears up for a roller-coaster of an offseason, with Skubal’s future sitting in the front row.

The Mets already have the highest payroll in all of MLB and could be looking to add yet another ginormous contract to the mix. To say they will be in a World Series-or-bust year would be an understatement.

However, considering they just missed the playoffs and seem fine with making no drastic changes to their brass, we may actually be wrong to assume the organization is placing such expectations on itself. Maybe they’re only saying that publicly without holding themselves to the same standard behind closed doors.

NY Mets could make — another — splash

A lot can be said about the Mets’ deficiencies and shortcomings, but there is no doubt about their willingness to spend, especially when they’re competing against the Yankees and Dodgers in a bidding war. In the winter of 2026-27, fans across MLB may see another historic spending battle between these three teams for the best pitcher available: Tarik Skubal.

Key takeaways

• The New York Mets may have the clearest need for a starting pitcher among interested suitors.
• Tarik Skubal is projected to receive an eight-year, $355 million contract in free agency.
• The New York Mets maintain the highest payroll across all of Major League Baseball.

The Brewers’ bullpen tossed five perfect innings against the Dodgers in Game 2, setting a Major League record for the most perfect relief innings in a single postseason game. That lights-out relief effort propelled Milwaukee to a 7–4 victory, giving them a 2–0 series cushion.

Four Milwaukee relievers combined to retire all 15 batters faced with seven strikeouts to lock down the victory: Dustin May (1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K), JoJo Romero (Win: 1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K), Abner Uribe (1.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K), and Aaron Ashby (Save: 1.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K).

Those dominant numbers make Dodgers manager Dave Roberts look foolish for dismissing the Brewers after dropping Game 1. Staring at an 0–2 hole following Milwaukee’s bullpen masterclass, Los Angeles now faces urgent questions regarding its pitching strategy as the NLCS shifts locations.

Brewers’ rotation creating waves since regular season

Anchored at the top by Jacob Misiorowski’s breakout campaign, the unit set a high standard of power pitching early on. Misiorowski made a team-leading 30 starts and established himself as a legitimate frontline ace, pairing elite velocity with late movement to consistently neutralize power-packed lineups and anchor the rotation through the dog days of summer.

Beyond its top-tier starter, Milwaukee relied heavily on exceptional youth and depth to maintain its relentless pace atop the NL Central. Acquired starter Kyle Harrison provided essential durability across 28 starts, delivering several high-strikeout gems along the way.

Even more impressive was how seamlessly the front office integrated top prospects into the mix. Rookie starters Chad Patrick, Logan Henderson, and Brandon Sproat combined for an astounding 77 starts throughout the campaign without missing a beat.

Key takeaways

• Milwaukee’s bullpen pitched five perfect innings during a 7–4 Game 2 victory.
• Dustin May, JoJo Romero, Abner Uribe, and Aaron Ashby combined to retire 15 straight batters.
• Frontline ace Jacob Misiorowski anchored Milwaukee’s rotation with a team-leading 30 starts.

“You can’t go into a long series against a team that has the best record in baseball and expect to just win 4. It’s going to be a long series, we knew it coming in,” Dave Roberts revealed, via MLB Network on X.

The series is far from over, and the Dodgers still have plenty of room for improvement. However, Roberts knows he cannot afford to underestimate a team that won 103 games during the regular season, the most of any team in MLB.

A narrow final score for Los Angeles

It was a tough night at the plate for the Dodgers, as they dropped Game 1 of the NLCS to the Brewers in a tight 2-1 pitcher’s duel. Despite forcing Milwaukee starter Jacob Misiorowski to throw nearly 100 pitches early on, L.A.’s high-powered lineup went ice-cold when it mattered most, going just 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position and stranding 10 total baserunners.

Starter Tarik Skubal turned in a solid outing, allowing just 2 earned runs with 7 strikeouts over 5.0 innings, but Milwaukee’s shutdown bullpen completely neutralized the Dodgers over the final 4.2 frames.

What’s next for the Dodgers vs Brewers series?

With Milwaukee holding a 1-0 series lead, the Dodgers will look to bounce back immediately in Game 2 on Monday, October 12, staying put at American Family Field in Milwaukee.

Following a travel day on Tuesday, the series shifts west to California, where Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles will host Game 3 on Wednesday, October 14, Game 4 on Thursday, October 15, and an if-necessary Game 5 on Friday, October 16. If the series goes the distance, it heads back to Milwaukee for Games 6 and 7 over the weekend.

Key takeaways

• Dave Roberts stressed the Dodgers knew beating the 103-win Brewers would be a long series.
• Los Angeles dropped Game 1 of the NLCS 2-1 after going 1-for-6 with RISP.
• The series continues with Game 2 on Monday at American Family Field in Milwaukee.

Jacob Misiorowski will take the mound for Game 1 as the Brewers look to set the tone early. Milwaukee also announced that Logan Henderson will start Game 2, while Robert Gasser is slated to take the ball in Game 3, according to MLB insider Adam McAlbi.

While the rest of the Senior Circuit shifts focus to the offseason—such as the Philadelphia Phillies, whose managerial search features candidates like Donnie Ecker—the Dodgers and Brewers are set to clash with a World Series berth on the line.

As the MLB postseason draws toward its climax, the hot stove is already warming up elsewhere: Sonny Gray has addressed his future with the Boston Red Sox, while the New York Yankees face ongoing scrutiny over their recent play, particularly regarding Jazz Chisholm Jr.

Brewers injury report ahead of Game 1

On the pitching front, Milwaukee remains without right-handed starter Brandon Woodruff as he continues to rehabilitate from major shoulder surgery. Meanwhile, left-hander DL Hall is being closely monitored following forearm and shoulder tightness, with plans to utilize him in a managed, multi-inning relief role.

Offensively, all eyes are on star outfielder Christian Yelich, who continues to manage lingering back discomfort that limited his workload late in the regular season. While Yelich is expected to be available at designated hitter or in the outfield, his availability will remain a day-to-day proposition.

Brewers’ projected lineup for Game 1

As the Brewers roll out their top active roster, the offense is expected to be anchored by Jackson Chourio and William Contreras. Here is Milwaukee’s projected starting lineup:

1. Jackson Chourio, LF
2. Brice Turang, 2B
3. William Contreras, C
4. Jake Bauers, 1B
5. Christian Yelich, DH
6. Cooper Pratt, SS
7. Luis Lara, RF
8. Garrett Mitchell, CF
9. Joey Ortiz, 3B

Key takeaways

• Jacob Misiorowski will start Game 1 of the NLCS for Milwaukee.
• Brandon Woodruff remains out for the Brewers while recovering from major shoulder surgery.
• Christian Yelich is expected to be available while managing lingering back discomfort.