Parallel Universe in the 2025 World Series: What Would Have Happened if Shohei Ohtani and Roki Sasaki Had Chosen the Blue Jays?
The start of the 2025 World Series is just around the corner, and with it, the expectation of seeing Shohei Ohtani at the plate for the Los Angeles Dodgers, the team he joined two seasons ago. But, what if history had taken a different turn? What if Ohtani, instead of wearing the Dodgers uniform, were the star of the Toronto Blue Jays?
Similarly, sensation pitcher Roki Sasaki has revolutionized the Dodgers’ postseason. However, there is an alternate reality where Sasaki could have been the Blue Jays’ rookie sensation.
Join us in exploring this intriguing scenario and analyzing how these decisions could have changed the fate of the season.
The Story Behind the Signings: Ohtani and Sasaki
The rumor spread quickly: Shohei Ohtani was about to board a plane bound for Toronto. Blue Jays fans were thrilled, but the reality was different. On December 8, 2023, amidst speculation and reports, Ohtani announced his decision to join the Dodgers via his Instagram account.
Regarding Roki Sasaki, his arrival in the Major Leagues generated great expectation. After meeting with several teams, it was revealed that the Yankees, Mets, Cubs, Rangers, and Giants were out of the running, leaving the Padres, Dodgers, and Blue Jays as finalists. Finally, Sasaki also announced his decision via Instagram, choosing the Dodgers and leaving the Blue Jays empty-handed.
Simulating the Last Two Seasons with Ohtani in Toronto
Reimagining baseball history involves making key decisions, especially when considering high-profile moves like Ohtani’s. If Ohtani had chosen the Blue Jays, the impact on Major League Baseball would have been significant.Dodgers Analysis: Ohtani’s absence would have impacted the Dodgers, but it wouldn’t have stopped them. It is estimated that the Dodgers would have reallocated the funds intended for Ohtani to other players, which could have generated around five additional wins per season.Blue Jays Analysis: The arrival of Ohtani would have changed the landscape in Toronto. The Blue Jays would have had to adjust their roster, which could have meant letting go of some players. The incorporation of Ohtani would have meant a significant increase in their performance, which would have made them an even more competitive team.
In a simulation of the 2024 season, the Blue Jays with Ohtani would have performed better, although they would not have guaranteed immediate success. By 2025, Ohtani’s presence would have positioned the Blue Jays as an elite team.
In the 2025 World Series simulations, matchups between the Dodgers and Blue Jays with Ohtani would have been more frequent, with the Blue Jays showing a clear advantage.
Dodgers’ Alternatives
If the Dodgers hadn’t signed Ohtani, they would have considered other options to strengthen their team.
Dylan Cease: The Dodgers could have sought to acquire this talented pitcher.
Blake Snell: They could have opted to sign this pitcher, who ultimately signed with the Giants.
Josh Hader: An elite closer could have been a priority to reinforce the bullpen.
Jung Hoo Lee: The Dodgers could have tried to sign this Korean outfielder.
Matt Chapman: The arrival of Chapman could have provided a solution at third base.
