William Contreras Sparks Brewers with Stellar Performance

William Contreras’ home run celebrations bring as much excitement as his powerful hits. On Monday night, the Brewers catcher hit a remarkable 436-foot home run, tying the score in the fifth inning of Milwaukee’s 7-4 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 2 of the NL Championship Series.

The three-time All-Star took his time around the bases, reminiscent of previous moments in the NL Division Series. MLB shared a video showing it took Contreras about 35 seconds to complete his run. Contreras said through interpreter Daniel de Mondesert, “More than anything, I try to enjoy the moment…[it’s] for my teammates. For them to feel the energy, feel the vibes, and for us to feel that together. The celebrations are for them.”

During Game 2, Contreras contributed more than his home run. He went 3 for 4 with three RBIs, helping the Brewers take a 2-0 series lead. His postseason performance includes a .481 on-base percentage and a 1.264 OPS with nine hits and four walks. Brewers captain Christian Yelich praises Contreras, stating, “He wants to compete every single day, every moment,…does a great job handling the pitching staff. He’s the fire of our team,…likes the big moments.”

In the sixth inning, Contreras showcased his competitive spirit. Against Yoshinobu Yamamoto in the first inning, he hit a single home run. In the fifth, he homered off Kris Bubic, tying the game 4-4. With a runner on third and one out in the sixth, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts intentionally walked Brice Turang, aiming for a double play. Contreras then hit an RBI single off Brock Stewart. “I took it as motivation,” Contreras remarked. “That was a decision their manager took…tried not to get too big…wanted to put the ball in play…it was a big run there.”

Contreras’ zest for the game is evident from his home run celebrations. After hitting his drive over the center-field wall Monday, [he] laid his bat down and faced the Brewers dugout as [he] walked to first base. He paused after rounding second base and gestured as he faced the outfield and wall. He stopped to slap hands with third base coach Matt Erickson and lifted his arms skyward while looking up before heading home.

Since joining the Brewers from Atlanta in 2022, Contreras has consistently delivered impressive performances. With an OPS over .800 each of his first two seasons in Milwaukee, he finished fifth in the NL MVP voting in 2024. Known for his work ethic, Manager Pat Murphy recalls Contreras’ determination, saying, “[He] was ticked if I ever DH’d him…This kid wants it. He doesn’t believe in days off…played one year with a broken hand…wants to excel. He wants it all.”

Contreras appreciates his time in Milwaukee, attributing his success to the confidence instilled by the organization. “I think it’s the confidence that Milwaukee instilled in me…whenever they acquired me…the only thing I…say is just [appreciation] to the organization for what they’ve been able to do. I think I’ve been able to have the best years of my career here.”

With hopes of celebrating the Brewers’ first World Series title soon, Contreras and his teammates look forward to extending their playoff success. Such a celebration would surely last longer than any of Contreras’ trips around the bases.