Dodgers Secure Game 7 Showdown in World Series After 3-1 Triumph Over Blue Jays
The Los Angeles Dodgers extended the World Series to a decisive Game 7 by overcoming the Toronto Blue Jays 3-1 in a tense matchup. Pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who previously delivered a complete game earlier in the series, earned his second victory against Toronto by delivering six strong innings. Yamamoto allowed just one run and five hits, striking out six and issuing one walk, effectively containing the Blue Jays' offense.
The pivotal third inning saw the Dodgers capitalize on scoring opportunities. After Tommy Edman doubled for the team's first hit, Shohei Ohtani was intentionally walked. Will Smith followed with an RBI double off the left-field wall, putting Los Angeles ahead. Freddie Freeman then drew a walk, setting the stage for Mookie Betts, who had struggled throughout the series. Betts delivered a two-run single, breaking an 0-for-13 drought with the bases loaded and giving the Dodgers a decisive 3-0 advantage.
Toronto attempted to respond in the bottom of the third, with Addison Barger doubling and eventually scoring on George Springer's single. Despite closing the gap to 3-1, the Blue Jays were unable to further capitalize on their opportunities as Yamamoto stranded two runners to end the inning.
As the game progressed, both teams relied on their bullpens to maintain the scoreline. Dodgers rookie relievers Justin Wrobleski and Roki Sasaki combined for two scoreless innings, bridging the gap to the ninth. In the final frame, Sasaki hit Alejandro Kirk with a pitch and allowed another baserunner before being replaced. Facing a high-pressure situation with runners on second and third and no outs, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts called on starter Tyler Glasnow to close the game. Glasnow executed efficiently, inducing an infield popup and then a line drive to left field. Kiké Hernández made a running catch and threw to second base, where Miguel Rojas completed a rare 7-4 game-ending double play, a first in postseason history.
Blue Jays starter Kevin Gausman matched a World Series record by striking out eight batters in the first three innings but ultimately conceded three runs over six innings of work. Despite his performance, the Dodgers' timely hitting proved decisive.
The victory keeps Los Angeles in contention for back-to-back championships, a feat not achieved in over two decades. The Dodgers' pitching strategy for Game 7 remains flexible, with Glasnow and potentially Ohtani available for key roles. The Blue Jays will counter with experienced starter Max Scherzer, who previously started a winner-take-all World Series game in 2019. Both teams have shown resilience and depth throughout the series, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
The winner of Game 7 will not only secure the championship but also cement their legacy, with the Dodgers aiming for a third title in six seasons and the Blue Jays seeking their first since 1993. The upcoming game promises high stakes and intense competition as both clubs vie for baseball's ultimate prize.