Misiorowski pitches Brewers to first World Series title

Jacob Misiorowski led the Milwaukee Brewers to their first World Series title by throwing 5 2/3 scoreless innings in a 4-0 win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday in St. Petersburg, Florida. The 24-year-old right-hander started Game 5 on his regular rest schedule and allowed only two hits before leaving the game with a calf cramp in the late sixth inning. Milwaukee's bullpen held the lead to secure the franchise's first championship.

The performance answered questions about Misiorowski's effectiveness in the postseason. His previous playoff starts were solid but he had not pitched beyond five innings. In Game 5, he maintained the level of dominance he showed earlier in the regular season. Only Tom Glavine in 1995 has previously thrown at least five scoreless innings while allowing two or fewer hits in a potential World Series clincher.

After the final out, Misiorowski told reporters the win felt great for the team and the city of Milwaukee. He noted that the method of victory mattered less than the result itself. The pitcher described the feeling as awesome for everyone involved in the organization.

Manager Pat Murphy faced scrutiny after Game 4 regarding his decision to use Misiorowski to close the bottom of the 12th inning. Critics questioned the choice, but the strategy allowed the starter to remain fully rested for the decisive Game 5. Milwaukee led the series 3-0 after the fourth game, making the rest a calculated risk that paid off.

Workload management was a key factor in Misiorowski's success this year. In 2025, he threw 141 1/3 innings across the minors, majors, and playoffs. This season, his total reached 193 2/3 innings, a career high. The Brewers limited his workload down the stretch to ensure he had enough stamina for the postseason run.

During the regular season, Misiorowski led the major leagues with a 1.80 ERA and 252 strikeouts in 174 2/3 innings. He also ranked first in the league for WHIP and strikeout rate while posting the lowest hit rate. Compared to his rookie year, he increased his strikeout rate, reduced his walk rate, and pitched deeper into games before workload limits were applied.

The Brewers hold control of Misiorowski through 2031. Manager Pat Murphy stated that while the team lacks a roster of Hall of Famers, Misiorowski and Jackson Chourio provide a strong foundation for the club's future. The team is positioned to contend for a Cy Young Award for the pitcher and may aim for back-to-back titles in 2027.