The Milwaukee Brewers are turning to ace Jacob Misiorowski in Game 5 of the World Series. Milwaukee led 3-2 heading into the bottom of the 12th inning in Game 4. With a chance at a sweep, it seemed as if The Miz could have been used in the inning. Instead, Brewers manager Pat Murphy ended up turning to Shane Drohan — a decision that did not go according to plan and the Tampa Bay Rays won 4-3 after a walk-off base hit. Murphy made it clear after the game he wanted to save Misiorowski for Game 5 in case the contest ended up being necessary.
So, what should fans expect from Misiorowski? He's thrown more innings than he ever has and is pitching deep into October. Will The Miz still be able to find success on Wednesday night in Tampa Bay?
Here are three bold predictions for Jacob Misiorowski's Game 5 start.
Jacob Misiorowski sets new high for his most strikeouts this postseason
The Miz was no stranger to recording strikeouts during the regular season. His 252 K's led all of baseball. However, he hasn't been quite as strikeout-savvy in the postseason so far.
He's recorded a mark of 14 through 13.1 innings (three starts). It's a respectable number, but it is below his standards. Misiorowski also hasn't allowed more than two earned runs in an outing, which is of course the most important feat.
So, why should we expect to see Misiorowski strike out more hitters in this game than he has in any other contest so far this postseason? It's certainly a bold prediction since he's facing a Rays ball club that struck out less than any other team in baseball during the regular season. After recording six K's against the San Diego Padres and five against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the playoffs, Misiorowski had just three in Game 1 of the World Series against Tampa Bay.
This prediction stems from the fact that the Rays are going to be playing with a sense of urgency. They have momentum following their two-run 12th inning in Game 4. Tampa Bay knows that falling behind early could lead to disaster since Milwaukee features an elite bullpen. The Rays are going to want to work Misiorowski's pitch count in hopes of forcing him into trouble and scoring some early runs.
He only needs seven strikeouts — which is realistic for the best strikeout pitcher in 2026.
Misiorowski gives up one or two early runs but bounces back
The Rays' plan will work — until it doesn't.
Look for Tampa Bay to cause some havoc for The Miz early. The Rays will likely score a run or two in the first, second or third inning. Milwaukee has made a habit of coming back in games this postseason, so the early deficit won't be a detriment for the ball club.
Misiorowski will find his rhythm in the third or fourth inning. He should be able to go five innings or so. Murphy may even let him pitch into the 6th if his pitch count is in a respectable spot after the Brewers had to stretch their bullpen in Game 4.
Article Continues BelowHe will leave the game with a lead
Misiorowski may give up an early lead, but the Brewers will answer before he departs the game. I'd expect to see a Brewers' 2-1 or 3-2 lead whenever The Miz ends up exiting — whether his departure occurs in the 4th, 5th or 6th inning.
Will he get the win? Well, this should be another competitive contest. It wouldn't be surprising to see the Rays score another run. Misiorowski will likely end up with a no-decision.
My initial prediction for the 2026 World Series was Brewers in 6, so I'll predict the Rays get the job done on Wednesday and send the series back to Milwaukee– despite a strong start from Jacob Misiorowski. However, it wouldn't be surprising to see the Brewers win Game 5 and clinch their first championship in franchise history.