The Los Angeles Dodgers, two-time defending World Series champions, find themselves on the brink of elimination after a disappointing 6-2 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 3 of the NLCS. With the Brewers now holding a commanding 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven series, the Dodgers are striving to become the first team since the 1998-2000 Yankees to achieve a threepeat.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts highlighted the difference in performance between this year’s Brewers and last year’s team, which the Dodgers swept in the NLCS. He noted that the Brewers are making better at-bats and have a high ball-in-play average, making it difficult for the Dodgers to score.

Historically, teams that have taken a 3-0 lead in a best-of-seven series have won 41 of 42 times, with only one comeback in history: the 2004 Red Sox against the Yankees. Roberts drew on his own experience from that series, recalling his crucial steal against Mariano Rivera in Game 4, which helped spark Boston's legendary comeback.

Roberts expressed optimism, stating, "It's certainly possible. I've lived it... We've played in a lot of elimination games. We've just got to get a win."

For the Dodgers to force a Game 5, they need to improve their hitting dramatically. The team has yet to hit a home run in the NLCS and has scored only seven runs across three games, with a dismal .187 slugging percentage. They have struggled particularly with runners in scoring position, going 2 for 16.

As the Dodgers prepare for an elimination game on Thursday, they need a signature moment to turn their fortunes around. Whether it be a key hit, a defensive play, or a pitcher escaping a jam, the Dodgers have the potential to find inspiration and make history.