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Brewers-Padres NLDS position-by-position breakdown

For the first time since their inaugural campaigns in 1969, the Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres are set to clash in the postseason during the National League Division Series. Ahead of the opening game, a positional analysis shows remarkably even footing between the two franchises, neither of which has ever captured a World Series title.

Behind the plate, the Brewers hold the edge thanks to three-time All-Star William Contreras, who posted a .758 OPS, hit 18 home runs, and caught 34.2 percent of base stealers. Meanwhile, the Padres utilize a trio featuring Luis Campusano, Freddy Fermin, and a catcher named Salas.

Campusano recorded a .795 OPS with eight homers over 248 plate appearances and excelled defensively, while Fermin provides strong defensive capabilities. At first base, the Padres claim the advantage with Ty France, whose age-31 season featured 21 home runs, an .865 OPS, and elite defense that included seven outs above average and a +10 fielding run value.

The Brewers counter at first with Jake Bauers, who launched 26 homers and posted an .874 OPS at age 30. Finally, second base features standout Milwaukee youngster Brice Turang, whose 6.1 FanGraphs WAR led all Major League players at his position following an .816 OPS, 21 home runs, 100 RBIs, 102 runs scored, and 23 defensive runs saved.

The Padres answer with two-time All-Star Jake Cronenworth at the keystone position.

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