During the World Series, Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider had an opportunity to meet former Blue Jays manager Cito Gaston. This meeting took place on the first day of the series, highlighted by the Blue Jays’ impressive 11-4 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Schneider Praises Cito Gaston’s Influence
Before Game 2, Schneider expressed his admiration for Gaston, saying, “He’s always been great to me.” The former manager, who led the Blue Jays to consecutive World Series titles in 1992 and 1993, offered Schneider words of encouragement, praising the team’s performance.
Gaston, now 81 years old, threw the ceremonial first pitch before Game 1. He also requested Schneider to autograph the baseball, which he intends to display prominently at home. Schneider reciprocated with a promise to seek an autograph from Gaston in return.
Blue Jays Set to Face Tough Competition
As the Blue Jays prepared for Game 2, catcher Tyler Heineman acknowledged the challenge posed by the defending champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers entered the World Series as strong favorites, having lost only one playoff game prior to the series. Their roster features notable players like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman.
- Dodgers were listed at -220 odds to win the series on BetMGM.
- Blue Jays had odds set at +180.
Heineman emphasized the underdog status of his team. “We weren’t even supposed to be in the playoffs, let alone the World Series,” he stated. The team’s confidence remains high despite the odds against them.
Changing Odds Before Game 2
As the series progressed, the odds shifted slightly. Before Game 2, Los Angeles was down to -120, while the Blue Jays climbed to +100. This change reflected the competitive nature of the games.
Historic Context of the World Series
The Dodgers are striving to become the first team to win back-to-back World Series titles since the New York Yankees accomplished this feat from 1998 to 2000. Major League Baseball has not seen a repeat champion in 24 years, marking the longest drought in the history of the major sports leagues.
In addition, the Dodgers are the first defending champions to return to the World Series since the Philadelphia Phillies in 2009. The ongoing series adds another chapter to the rich history of both teams.
