Blue Jays Bounce Back to Fall Classic — Set to Face Ohtani’s Dodgers
The Blue Jays are back in the World Series for the first time since 1993, and they did it in dramatic fashion. After trailing the Mariners 3–1 in the ALCS, Toronto reeled off a pair of home wins to claim a 4–3 series victory and earn a showdown with the defending champion Dodgers.
Seattle entered Game 7 with the momentum, riding solo home runs from Julio Rodríguez and Cal Raleigh that gave them a 3–1 edge. But the Blue Jays refused to let history slip away: veteran George Springer launched a go-ahead three-run blast in the seventh inning of Game 7, sending the crowd into a frenzy and locking in the Jays’ spot in the Fall Classic.
This matchup pits a Toronto club hungry to reconnect with glory against the Los Angeles Dodgers—a juggernaut featuring two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, determined to repeat. The stage is set for a vintage World Series filled with history, ambition, and name-making.
What changed for Toronto in 2025
The Blue Jays didn’t sneak in—they dominated. With a 94-68 record (one game better than L.A.’s 93-69), they secured home-field advantage and entered the postseason as a team built for October.
Their success stemmed from depth, timely hitting, and bullpens that refused to surrender. Analysts noted the roster’s “all-hands-on-deck approach to offense and pitching” as key to turning Toronto into a contender.
Despite questions about their postseason track record, the Jays let experience fuel execution. Springer’s heroics and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s leadership gave the club both star power and credibility on the biggest stage.
Mariners’ lead evaporates like summer in Toronto
For Seattle, the 3–1 margin felt comfortable—but it unraveled quickly. Mistakes multiplied, and momentum shifted as Toronto closed games five and six on the road, then finished the deal at home. The Blues’ “first time to the Series” dream remains unfulfilled.
The Dodgers: Ohtani, legacy, and the blueprint for dominance
The Dodgers are more than just defending champs—they’re chasing dynasty status. Shohei Ohtani’s 2025 playoff performance—pitching six shutout innings, crushing multiple homers, striking out double-digits—reminded the world he is a force both ways.
L.A. completed a sweep of the Brewers in the NLCS to earn their 23rd World Series appearance. They arrive battle-tested, confident, and still widely regarded as favorites.
What to expect in the World Series
Momentum & pressure: Toronto has the edge in carry-over confidence. But L.A. knows how to win under spotlight and has been here many times.
Star matchups: Guerrero Jr. vs. the Dodgers’ pitching staff; Ohtani vs. a Toronto lineup hungry to expose a two-way threat.
Pitching wars: Toronto’s rotation and bullpen will need to perform every start; the Dodgers’ starters must stave off the Jays’ offense and capitalise on home runs.
Series flow: Games 1 and 2 in Toronto give the Jays a chance to start strong. Then shift to L.A. where the Dodgers thrive on momentum and big moments. If Toronto wins a game in L.A., the story might flip.
Surprise factor: Depth will matter. Toronto’s bench and bullpen might carry them. L.A.’s experience might carry them. If one club gets a hot third starter or breakout hitter, the series pivots fast.
Why this Series matters
For Toronto, the chance to reclaim the Fall Classic after 32 years is electric for fans and fresh for the city. For L.A., the chance to repeat and cement their dynasty raises the stakes higher than ever. This isn’t just baseball—it’s legacy.
Expect big hitters, big arms, loud fans, and even louder storylines.
Final take
The Blue Jays are not just riding in—they’re driving the Highway to the World Series. The Dodgers are stocked, hungry, and ready to fight. If Toronto keeps swinging and L.A. keeps winning at home, we could be in for one of the most memorable Fall Classics in recent memory.