Jackson Chourio Hits Leadoff Home Run in NLCS Game 3
Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio crushed a first-pitch home run to start Game 3 against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Baseball
Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio connected on the very first pitch of Game 3 of the National League Championship Series for a leadoff home run. The hit against Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Blake Snell gave the Brewers an early spark in their push to lead the series 3-0.
Why it matters
The dramatic opening swing set an aggressive tone for the Milwaukee team as they aim to seize total command of the National League Championship Series. This feat remains a rare statistical milestone in postseason baseball history.
Jackson Chourio is only the second player to hit a home run on the first pitch of a postseason game since 2008, following Davis Schneider's 2025 World Series performance. This marks the first home run allowed by Blake Snell during the 2026 season.
The players
Jackson Chourio
He is a Milwaukee Brewers outfielder known for his exceptional speed and power at the plate.
Blake Snell
He is an elite starting pitcher currently playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Davis Schneider
He is a professional baseball player who previously hit a first-pitch home run during the 2025 World Series.
The details
Chourio drove the first pitch from Blake Snell over the right-field wall to provide the Brewers with an immediate advantage. The blast represents a significant defensive lapse for the Dodgers, who had not surrendered a home run to Snell throughout the 2026 campaign.
Timeline
2008 marked the beginning of records for first-pitch postseason home runs.
Davis Schneider recorded a first-pitch postseason home run in the 2025 World Series.
Jackson Chourio hit his leadoff home run on October 14, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This leadoff home run underscores the high-stakes intensity of the 2026 postseason as teams leverage early-game aggression to secure series leads. It mirrors the rare statistical precedent set by the 2025 World Series Game 5 leadoff home run by Davis Schneider.
The home run provides the Brewers an immediate scoreboard advantage in Game 3 and breaks Blake Snell's 2026 streak of not allowing home runs. This momentum is critical for Milwaukee's attempt to extend their series lead to 3-0 against the Dodgers.
The takeaway
Postseason success often hinges on capitalizing on rare opportunities presented by star pitchers. Fans should note how aggressive early-count swings can disrupt the rhythm of even the most dominant hurlers in high-pressure games.
Further reading
Follow the latest postseason developments on the Milwaukee Baseball page.
