When Patrick Joseph Murphy, manager of the Milwaukee Brewers stepped up to the podium on October 12, 2025, he didn’t just answer questions—he handed out compliments like baseball cards. The press conference, hosted at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, was part of the buildup to the 2025 National League Championship SeriesLos Angeles, California, and Murphy’s remarks have become the talk of the clubhouse.
Why the Dodgers Earned the Title "America's Team"
Murphy singled out a handful of Dodgers stars, beginning with Mookie Betts, the swift right fielder whose $30.4 million contract reflects his elite status. He then praised Freddie Freeman, the veteran first baseman whose $23.75 million salary is matched by his steady bat. The Japanese phenom Shohei Ohtani earned a nod for his two‑way brilliance, even though his recent slump left fans nervous. Finally, Murphy highlighted Roki Sasaki, the 22‑year‑old pitcher still carving his niche.
"They’re America’s team," Murphy declared, a line that reverberated through the room and later made its way onto the Dodger Blue YouTube channel. The sentiment was part admiration, part strategic mind‑game—telling the league that the Brewers respected the opponent even as they plotted a comeback.
Game‑One Aftermath: Praise for Blake Snell and Will Smith
Two days later, after the Brewers fell 5‑2 in Game 1, Murphy sat down with The Dodgers Bleed Los podcast. He marveled at Blake Snell’s "devastating changeup," calling the performance "one of the most dominant postseason outings" he’d ever witnessed. Snell’s breaking balls, Murphy said, left batters "reacting more than they could ever hope to".
He also lauded catcher Will Smith for his "unbelievable" game‑calling. Smith’s knack for framing pitches and calling the right sequence, according to Murphy, turned the Dodgers’ staff into a well‑oiled machine.
Strategic Gambits: The Intentional Walk to Ohtani
Murphy explained that the Brewers opted to issue an intentional walk to Ohtani in the fifth inning of Game 1, a move that raised eyebrows. "Even though Shohei’s been struggling at the plate, his threat in the lineup forces us to think two steps ahead," Murphy noted. The strategy aimed to load the bases and set up a potential double‑play, a classic old‑school tactic that paid off when the Brewers forced a run later in the inning.
This decision sparked debate among analysts: was it a sign of respect for Ohtani’s dual‑role impact, or a pragmatic response to a pitcher who can dominate with either arm? The answer, Murphy hinted, lies in the Dodgers’ depth—if you can neutralize a star by walking him, you’ve bought yourself a chance against the rest of the order.
Moments of Levity: Introducing Himself to Japanese Reporters
Perhaps the most memorable fragment of the October 12 press conference was Murphy’s impromptu roll call of the Japanese media present. "Let's do introductions before this is over! All the reporters from Japan, stand up. I won’t remember your names—but I want to try!" The room erupted in laughter, breaking the tension that usually shadows NLCS previews.
That light‑hearted gesture earned Murphy kudos on social media, painting him not just as a tactical mind but as a genuine, personable figure in a sport often dominated by stoic narratives.
Inside the Brewers’ Defensive Showcase
Beyond the spotlight on the Dodgers, Murphy spoke proudly of his own squad’s defensive highlights. Outfielder Sal Frelick turned a potential extra‑base hit into a diving catch that drew a collective gasp. Catcher William Contreras managed a perfect pitch‑framing sequence, while infielder Terang (full name: Terang Aburto) executed a rare double play that momentarily confused the Dodgers but showcased the Brewers’ heads‑up reaction.
These moments, Murphy argued, are the building blocks of a team that can weather a series loss and rebound stronger in Game 2, scheduled for October 15 at Dodger Stadium.
Historical Context: The NLCS Legacy and 2025 Upset
The 2025 NLCS marked the 56th edition of the series, a tradition dating back to 1969. Historically, the Dodgers have claimed 12 NLCS titles, while the Brewers have never advanced beyond this round. Murphy’s tenure, beginning in the 2023 season after stints at Arizona State and the San Diego Padres, has been defined by a blend of analytical rigor and old‑school baseball intuition.
Ownership stakes also colored the narrative. The Dodgers, owned by Guggenheim Baseball Management LLC, have poured resources into a deep roster. The Brewers, under Mark Attanasio, are still building a competitive core, making their NLCS run a surprise to many.
Aftermath: Dodgers Crowned World Champions
Ultimately, the Dodgers rode the momentum from the NLCS to clinch the 2025 World Series on October 29, defeating the New York Yankees in six games. Their victory cemented the season’s narrative: a team hailed as "America’s team" lived up to the hype, while the Brewers, despite the loss, earned respect for their fighting spirit and strategic ingenuity.
Murphy’s open‑hearted comments and tactical maneuvers have already entered NLCS folklore, suggesting that next season the Brewers may return with a sharper edge and perhaps a few more words of praise for their rivals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Murphy’s praise affect the Brewers‑Dodgers rivalry?
Murphy’s compliments were seen as sportsmanship, diffusing some of the usual tension. Analysts note that it may have eased pressure on his own players, allowing them to focus on execution rather than animosity.
What was the reasoning behind walking Shohei Ohtani?
Murphy explained that Ohtani’s dual threat forces pitchers to respect both his hitting and his pitching. By walking him, the Brewers forced the Dodgers to face the next batter, hoping to neutralize the immediate danger and set up a double‑play opportunity.
Who are the key Dodgers players highlighted in the press conference?
Murphy singled out outfielder Mookie Betts, first baseman Freddie Freeman, two‑way star Shohei Ohtani and pitcher Roki Sasaki as the core contributors to Los Angeles’ dominance.
What impact did the Brewers’ defensive plays have in Game 1?
Sal Frelick’s diving catch prevented a run, William Contreras’ framing kept the Dodgers’ hitters honest, and Terang Aburto’s rare double‑play shifted momentum, showcasing the Brewers’ defensive depth despite the loss.
What are the prospects for the Brewers next season?
Building on their NLCS experience, the Brewers are expected to retain key pieces like Frelick and Contreras, while adding bullpen depth. Murphy’s blend of analytics and old‑school tactics suggests they’ll stay competitive in the NL Central.