Wed Oct 08 23:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Brewers Gamble on Rookie Lockridge in NLDS Game 3
**MILWAUKEE -** In a surprising move, the Milwaukee Brewers are handing rookie outfielder Brandon Lockridge his first-ever postseason start in Game 3 of the National League Division Series against the Chicago Cubs. Lockridge, a 28-year-old acquired in July, will bat eighth and play center field against Cubs right-hander Jameson Taillon on Wednesday.
The decision comes despite Lockridge’s limited major league experience (79 games) and a career .576 OPS. He spent the entire month of September in Triple-A after being optioned due to a logjam at first base. However, the Brewers opted to include him on the NLDS roster as an outfield depth option, and now manager Pat Murphy is ready to see what he can do.
The move appears to be matchup-driven. While starting center fielder Blake Perkins has struggled against right-handed pitching this season, Lockridge showed improvement against righties after joining the Brewers in August. First baseman Jake Bauers is also getting the start over Andrew Vaughn, another indicator of the Brewers’ emphasis on exploiting favorable matchups.
Lockridge’s start likely won’t be a lengthy one, as the Brewers are known for their aggressive use of pinch-hitters. Vaughn, Perkins, or Isaac Collins could be called upon later in the game depending on the situation.
“All hands on deck. It’s the Brewers way,” the team stated prior to the game, highlighting their commitment to utilizing their entire roster in the playoffs. The Brewers are currently tied with the Cubs 1-1 in the best of five series.
First Piper 