Brewers Execute Historic 8-6-2 Double Play in NLCS Game 1 Against Dodgers

In Game 1 of the National League Championship Series on Monday night, the Milwaukee Brewers executed an unprecedented 8-6-2 double play against the Los Angeles Dodgers, halting a potential scoring opportunity.

During the top of the fourth inning, with the bases loaded and one out, Dodgers' Max Muncy hit a deep fly ball to center field. Brewers outfielder Sal Frelick leaped to catch the ball, which deflected off his glove, hit the wall, and then landed back in his glove. Since the ball touched the wall, it remained in play, and Muncy was not out.

The Dodgers' baserunners, misinterpreting the play as a catch, hesitated. Teoscar Hernández, the runner on third, initially returned to the base before attempting to score. Frelick relayed the ball to shortstop Joey Ortiz, who threw to catcher William Contreras. Contreras tagged Hernández out at home plate. He then stepped on third base to force out Will Smith, who had retreated to second base, completing the double play.

The play was officially recorded as Muncy grounding into a double play due to force plays at two different bases, despite the ball traveling 404 feet. According to ESPN Research, Muncy's hit would have been a home run in nine ballparks, including Dodger Stadium.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts challenged the call, but both outs were upheld, ending the inning. The Dodgers went on to win the game 2-1.

This marked the first 8-6-2 double play in MLB postseason history. The most recent occurrence in the regular season was in April 2004, involving a ball hit by Chicago Cubs' Sammy Sosa to Cincinnati Reds' center fielder Ken Griffey Jr., which also ended with a tag at the plate.