The Milwaukee Brewers have a unique way of playing baseball. They focus on scoring runs through contact hitting, stolen bases, and high batting averages instead of relying on home runs. This season, they achieved the best record in the major leagues with 103 wins, despite hitting only 154 home runs—the second-lowest total in MLB.
The Brewers scored the second-most runs (832) while maintaining one of the lowest launch angles (9.2 degrees). Their approach has been rare in a league where most teams prioritize hitting for power. They also ranked first in batting average (.258) and on-base percentage (.341).
Manager Pat Murphy jokes about their style, saying they aren’t “purposely not hitting homers.” Instead, the team emphasizes high-contact, low-strikeout baseball. Players like Brice Turang and Sal Frelick highlight the importance of working counts, putting pressure on pitchers, and creating opportunities through solid contact.
Milwaukee’s success isn’t just about scoring runs; it’s also about how they do it. They lead MLB in stolen bases (162) and bunts to advance runners, which helps create big innings with multiple singles. Their ability to hustle and play the game the right way has impressed opponents and fans alike.
The Brewers’ approach isn’t new. Teams like the Kansas City Royals and San Francisco Giants have also found success using similar strategies in recent years. However, it’s rare for teams to reach the playoffs without relying on home runs—only three of the bottom five homer-hitting teams made the postseason this year.
As the Brewers prepare for the playoffs, they believe their style will work in October. They have a strong lineup with players like Jackson Chourio, Brice Turang, and William Contreras who can both hit and create opportunities. With a focus on solid contact and smart baserunning, the Brewers hope to延续 their success into the postseason.