2025 World Series: Blue Jays vs. Dodgers
The 2025 World Series is set. The Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers will face off in an exciting battle for the championship. The Dodgers, the current champions, swept the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series, while the Blue Jays overcame the Seattle Mariners in a hard-fought American League series. What brought Toronto and Los Angeles here? Will they be able to maintain their performance in the “Autumn Classic”? Which stars will shine the brightest? Our Alofoke Deportes experts analyze the expected matchup.Toronto Blue Jays vs. Los Angeles DodgersAfter more than three decades, the Blue Jays return to the World Series. Their last appearance was in 1992 and 1993, years in which they won consecutive titles. For the Dodgers, it’s a chance to defend their title. The first game will be played at the Rogers Centre, marking the seventh World Series game outside the United States. A vibrant atmosphere is expected in Canada. The history between both teams in the regular season is limited, with the Dodgers leading 19-11. The first encounter was on June 18, 2002, where the Blue Jays won thanks to Roy Halladay. In that game, Chris Woodward, current first base coach for the Dodgers, and Dave Roberts, current Dodgers manager, were the first batters. Before the season, simulations predicted a 2.28% probability of this matchup. The Blue Jays were not considered favorites, but they managed to exceed expectations. This matchup presents contrasting playing styles: the Dodgers rely on their solid starting rotation, while Toronto stands out for its offense. The games will begin in Toronto on Friday.Toronto Blue Jays
Probability of winning: 40.4%Equipment temperature: 93°Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has been the most outstanding player of the postseason, with a batting average of .442/.510/.930, three strikeouts all month, and six home runs, tying the franchise record. His performance has been crucial in leading Toronto to the World Series.The number one factor that has led the Blue Jays to the World Series is Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Jorge Castillo
Yesavage has shown dominance on the mound, with 5.1 hitless innings and 11 strikeouts against the Yankees, as well as achieving crucial double plays against the Mariners. The question is whether this performance will continue against the Dodgers. Castillo anticipates that Guerrero Jr. will maintain his level, although the Dodgers could avoid him. The pressure will fall on other hitters like Alejandro Kirk, Daulton Varsho, and Ernie Clement to take advantage of the opportunities. Schoenfield notes that it will be more difficult, as the Dodgers avoid striking out outside the strike zone more often than Seattle. Yesavage will need to be more precise. Guerrero Jr. is in an exceptional moment, and his good performance is expected to continue. Castillo expects Guerrero Jr. to maintain his performance, unless the Dodgers prevent it. Schoenfield believes it is likely to continue, although the Dodgers’ rotation is stronger than Seattle’s. As for other key players, Castillo highlights Louis Varland, John Schneider’s most reliable reliever. Varland has pitched in 10 of the 11 playoff games and is expected to play a significant role against the Dodgers’ left-handed hitters. Schoenfield mentions George Springer, who has been key to the Blue Jays’ offensive production, including the home run that secured the series against the Mariners. Springer has performed well in the postseason, and his performance at the start of the games will be vital.Los Angeles DodgersProbability of winning: 59.6%Equipment temperature: 122°It’s also important to highlight rookie pitcher Trey Yesavage.
David Schoenfield
The Dodgers have had a dominant starting pitching staff (Blake Snell, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Shohei Ohtani). They have achieved an ERA of 1.40 in 64.1 innings, with a low batting average against. The evolution of Roki Sasaki as a reliever has also been crucial. Sasaki has been fundamental, recording the last out in five postseason games. The rest could benefit Sasaki, and if his arm is in shape, it could be difficult for opposing batters. The Blue Jays might have a better strategy against Sasaki now, after having seen him play. The Dodgers might have few reliever options if the Blue Jays manage to do damage to him. Passan points out that the Blue Jays’ offense has been the most effective this postseason, and they could be a challenge for the Dodgers. The Dodgers’ pitchers average 96.8 mph on their fastballs, but Toronto’s hitters are batting .292 against pitches of 97 mph or more. Ohtani had a mixed performance in the postseason. Gonzalez suggests that, if Ohtani continues his good offensive performance, he could be a key factor. The rest between series could benefit his ability to pitch. Passan believes Ohtani will not repeat his performance from the fourth game of the Championship Series, but he is expected to perform well in at least one start. Gonzalez highlights Freddie Freeman as a key player for the Dodgers, especially against the Blue Jays’ right-handed starting rotation. Freeman, who was the MVP of last year’s World Series, will have opportunities to drive in runs. Passan points out that Blake Snell, who will start the first game, has been consistent and could set the tone for the series.The number one factor that has led the Dodgers to the World Series is their exceptional starting pitching staff.
Jeff Passan