World Series Recap Games Four and Five

Toronto Blue Jays (94-68) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (93-69)

After an epic, 18 inning marathon win in game three, the Dodgers have taken the lead in this series, with two more to go at Chavez Ravine. Freddie Freeman once again played World Series hero, becoming the first player to ever hit multiple walk-off homers in Fall Classic history. Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani etched himself into the record books as well, reaching base in all nine of his plate appearances, by way of two doubles, two homers (including a game-tying shot in the 7th), and five walks (four intentional). And oh by the way, he’s gonna start game four on the mound. Truly a one of one player. Apart from Freeman and Ohtani’s heroics, however, the rest of the Dodger lineup has struggled to produce, and if they don’t turn it around soon, the powerful Blue Jays offense could strike. The much maligned Dodger pen held its own throughout extra innings, but will manager Dave Roberts be able to rely on them again?

It can be hard to imagine how a team could bounce back after such a heartbreaking and emotionally draining loss, especially given how many squandered opportunities the Jays (and how many runners got thrown out trying to advance in late innings!) But if there’s anything manager John Schneider knows for certain about his club, it’s their resilience and determination. That of course starts with their homegrown stud, Vladimir Guerrero, Jr., who’s been the best hitter throughout these playoffs. The task will be harder without George Springer, who left game three with an oblique injury and is doubtful to return, but don’t be surprised if fill-ins like Davis Schneider and Isiah Kiner-Falefa find ways to contribute.

Opposing Ohtani in game four will be California born Shane Bieber. It’s been an up and down postseason for the Jay’s midseason acquisition, but when he’s on, the former Cy Young can match up with the best of them. Blake Snell and Trey Yesavage will face off again for game five. Neither pitcher was particularly effective in their game one starts, but both have demonstrated the potential for brilliance. Will the Dodgers finish their quest for back-to-back championships in LA, or will the Blue Jays force the series back to Canada?

Toronto Radio SN590 - Ben Shulman and Chris Leroux

Los Angeles Radio AM570 - Stephen Nelson and Rick Monday

Audio clips from MLB.tv

As always, thank you to Baseball Reference and SABR for statistics, box scores, background information, and much, much more.

Catch you next time,

P.C.O.