As the 2025 World Series transitions from Toronto to Los Angeles, both the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers face critical challenges. The upcoming Game 3, scheduled for Monday night at Dodger Stadium, will be pivotal in determining the series trajectory.
Series Overview
The Dodgers will seek to gain an advantage at home, while the Blue Jays aim to leverage their recent success. After two games at Rogers Centre, the teams are tied in the series. The performances of key players will be crucial in this tightly contested battle.
Player Highlights
- Yoshinobu Yamamoto (Dodgers): Dominated in Game 2 with a complete game, marking the first consecutive complete games in postseason since Curt Schilling in 2001.
- Will Smith (Dodgers): Contributed significantly with a crucial homer and no strikeouts, showcasing impressive at-bats despite previous injury concerns.
- Addison Barger (Blue Jays): His grand slam in Game 1 set a positive tone for Toronto.
- Alejandro Kirk (Blue Jays): Strong defensive showing in Game 1, providing a solid foundation for the team.
Bullpen Performance
One of the notable aspects of the early series has been the performance of the Blue Jays’ bullpen. Expected to be a weak link, they managed to minimize damage, allowing just four runs over 7⅓ innings across two games.
Offensive Struggles
On the lineup side, the Dodgers have struggled offensively. Their key hitters, including Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman, collectively performed poorly, with a combined 4-for-21 hitting record in the series. Their postseason productivity has been below expectations, which will need to change for the Dodgers to reclaim momentum.
Expectations for Game 3 Pitching
Game 3 will feature starting pitchers Max Scherzer for the Dodgers and Tyler Glasnow for the Blue Jays. Glasnow’s postseason form at home has been stellar, while Scherzer’s past postseason experience may prove beneficial.
- Glasnow: Holds a strong playoff record with only one run allowed in his previous two starts.
- Scherzer: Needs to minimize home runs, having allowed a high rate during the season.
Strategies Moving Forward
To take control of the series, the Dodgers must improve their offensive output and get performances from their star hitters. Maintaining effective pitching depth will be crucial to avoid over-reliance on their bullpen.
Conversely, the Blue Jays need to recapture their success from Game 1, applying consistent pressure on Dodgers’ starters and maintaining flawless defense. Their ability to force pitcher mistakes will be key.
Conclusion
As both teams adjust their strategies and personnel in the World Series, Game 3 is set to be a decisive moment. The performance of players like Yamamoto, Smith, and Glasnow will likely shine a spotlight on the outcome of this thrilling championship series.
