The Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers will meet in the National League Championship Series for the second consecutive season, with Logan Henderson standing as one of Milwaukee’s biggest strengths.

The Brewers were MLB’s best team during the regular season, and they looked the part during their first postseason series this year.

After earning an MLB-best 103 victories, Milwaukee eliminated the San Diego Padres with a 3-1 road win Wednesday night, completing an entertaining and tightly contested National League Division Series in four games.

Henderson entered October carrying considerable uncertainty. He had already demonstrated that he was an excellent pitcher, but he had never appeared in a postseason game.

The right-hander finished the regular season with a 2.47 ERA and 0.84 WHIP in 98.1 innings over 18 starts, recording 110 strikeouts against 19 walks.

Henderson posted a 1.78 ERA and 0.99 WHIP in 25.1 innings over five starts last season.

His first postseason assignment came Sunday during Game 2 of the National League Division Series against San Diego.

Henderson allowed two runs (one earned) on two hits with four strikeouts and three walks in five innings to get a no-decision in Milwaukee’s 4-3 home win.

Although he did not factor into the decision, Henderson gave the Brewers an opportunity to remain within reach before their late comeback.

That performance answered an important question about how he would respond to October pressure. A pitcher can succeed throughout the regular season and still find the postseason environment difficult because every mistake receives greater attention.

Henderson did not allow the importance of his first postseason appearance to overwhelm him. He worked through traffic, limited the damage and kept Milwaukee close enough to recover.

His command separates him from many young pitchers. Henderson attacks the strike zone without becoming careless, forcing hitters to earn their opportunities rather than giving away unnecessary bases.

He also possesses the confidence to trust his pitches when situations become difficult. Instead of abandoning his plan after allowing traffic, he can adjust his sequencing and continue challenging hitters.

That composure will be essential against Los Angeles. The Dodgers have a deep lineup capable of extending plate appearances, punishing mistakes and forcing starters to work harder than expected.

Henderson must remain patient and avoid allowing one difficult plate appearance to disrupt an entire inning. His ability to control the pace can prevent Los Angeles from building momentum.

Milwaukee does not need Henderson to become a different pitcher because the opponent has changed. The Brewers need the same controlled aggression, efficient delivery and competitive confidence that carried him through the season.

His first postseason start showed that he belongs in Milwaukee’s rotation. Facing the Dodgers will demand even more, but Henderson has already demonstrated that the stage does not intimidate him.