The Toronto Blue Jays secured a spot in the World Series for the first time in more than thirty years yesterday. They will square off against the Los Angeles Dodgers powerhouses, starting Tuesday night at Dodger Stadium for Game 1.
These two teams have plenty of offensive talent, but who starts on the mound will ultimately determine how this best-of-seven series begins. Here are the pitching storylines to keep an eye on this week:
Blake Snell’s Postseason Domination
The Dodgers will hand the ball to Blake Snell in Game 1 and he’s been nothing short of amazing this October. Coming off an 8-inning, 10-strikeout performance in the NLCS opener, Snell has solidified his reputation as one of the best big-game pitchers in baseball.
The two-time Cy Young winner now has the chance to add a World Series to his resume that already includes dominance in both leagues. His ability to neutralize Toronto’s right-handed hitters — particularly Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette — will set the tone for the series.
Kevin Gausman or Trey Yesavage — Toronto’s Bold Move
The Blue Jays have not announced their Game 1 starter but all signs point to either veteran Kevin Gausman or rookie sensation Trey Yesavage.
Gausman has postseason experience and the calm command that anchors the Toronto staff. But Yesavage’s rise has been one of the season’s biggest stories. Putting the ball in the 22-year-old’s hand in Game 1 would be a bold move from manager John Schneider — signaling he believes in a new ace and setting the tone for a franchise built on young talent.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s World Series Debut
Game 2 is expected to be Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s World Series debut. The Japanese right-hander has navigated the typical growing pains of a first MLB season while showing brilliance that justifies his $325 million contract.
His splitter-heavy arsenal has baffled right-handers all year but he’ll face one of the most patient lineups in the game. The matchup with Toronto’s disciplined hitters will test Yamamoto’s command and the Dodgers’ trust in him as a long-term piece.
Toronto’s Bullpen Depth
If the Blue Jays are to counter the Dodgers’ offense, their retooled bullpen must come through. Toronto’s relief corps looks very different from past seasons with closer Jeff Hoffman, high-leverage arms like Yariel Rodríguez and Seranthony Domínguez in significant roles.
If the starters have early trouble, manager John Schneider may rely heavily on this group in Games 1 and 2. It could be the Jays’ strength or ability to handle heavy workloads without losing velocity or command that will decide whether they leave L.A. with a split or will return home down 0–2.
The Dodgers’ Ace Depth and Ohtani’s Shadow
In addition to Snell and Yamamoto, the Dodgers also have Tyler Glasnow and Shohei Ohtani lined up in the pitching rotation. Ohtani’s heroics in the NLCS- including a ten-strikeout, three-home run game- have become legendary.
Even when not pitching, Ohtani’s presence has a significant impact on every series to the decision-making. With that kind of depth, the Los Angeles lineup can afford to come out on the offensive for the first two games, knowing elite arms lie in wait behind them.
