Dodgers Bat Kyle Tucker Eighth Against Brewers in NLCS Opener

The Los Angeles Dodgers will start Kyle Tucker in the eighth spot of their batting order against the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 1 of the National League Championship Series on Sunday, October 11, 2026. Manager Dave Roberts has kept the outfielder in the lower portion of the lineup despite Milwaukee starting right-hander Jacob Misiorowski.

According to the lineup information published by Heavy.com, the Dodgers will open the series with a matchup between starting pitchers Tarik Skubal and Misiorowski. The National League Championship Series represents another opportunity for Los Angeles to advance toward the World Series.

The Dodgers' announced batting order places Mookie Betts at shortstop, Freddie Freeman at first base and Will Smith at catcher. Shohei Ohtani will serve as the designated hitter, followed by Teoscar Hernández in left field and Max Muncy at third base.

Andy Pages will bat seventh in center field, Tucker will hit eighth in right field, and Enrique Hernández will occupy the ninth spot at second base. Heavy.com reported that Tommy Edman and Miguel Rojas are both unavailable for the lineup.

Smith will remain third in the order despite his struggles during the National League Division Series, while Ohtani will bat fourth. The lineup reflects Roberts' choices for the opening game against Milwaukee's right-handed starter.

Tucker's placement comes after an inconsistent offensive season in 2026, according to Heavy.com. The outfielder is playing the first year of a four-year extension with the Dodgers, and the team's postseason campaign provides an opportunity for him to improve his offensive production.

Heavy.com noted that Tucker's at-bats have improved since the beginning of September, with some offensive statistics also showing progress. He has continued to bat eighth during the Dodgers' playoff run, regardless of whether the opposing starting pitcher throws right-handed or left-handed.

Los Angeles entered the championship series among the four remaining teams in the MLB postseason. The Dodgers are pursuing a third consecutive World Series appearance, making the series against Milwaukee a significant stage in their attempt to return to baseball's championship round.