LOS ANGELES (AP) — Trey Yesavage stood on the mound at Dodger Stadium, surrounded by 52,175 fans, thinking back to his season’s start in front of a mere 327 spectators in the minors. “What a crazy world,” he said, capturing the moment with a smile.
Just 46 days after making his major league debut, Yesavage achieved a remarkable feat—setting a rookie record with 12 strikeouts in a World Series game. His stellar performance helped the Toronto Blue Jays to a 6-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers, bringing them one step closer to their first championship since 1993.
“This isn’t over yet,” Toronto’s star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. said, emphasizing the team’s drive.
The game began with fireworks as Davis Schneider and Guerrero hit back-to-back home runs off Blake Snell’s first pitches, marking the first time consecutive home runs launched a Series game. Yesavage showcased his talent by delivering a powerful mix of pitches, confounding the Dodgers’ batters. He became the first pitcher in World Series history with 12 strikeouts and no walks, surpassing the previous record set by Don Newcombe in 1949.
“I’m amazed by what he accomplished,” Toronto manager John Schneider said, while Dodgers star Freddie Freeman noted Yesavage’s precision, saying, “His command was pinpoint tonight.”
After a tough Game 3 that went 18 innings, the Blue Jays bounced back, outscoring the Dodgers 12-3 in the following two games. Currently, Toronto leads the Series 3-2. As the team heads home to Toronto for Game 6, they hope to clinch the title. It’s noteworthy that since the Yankees’ three consecutive championships from 1998 to 2000, no team has won back-to-back titles.
“Yesavage’s ability to handle pressure in such a big game is incredible,” said teammate Bo Bichette. Additionally, research shows that rookie pitchers tend to suffer in high-stakes games, making Yesavage’s achievement all the more impressive. His performance prompted comparisons to legendary rookies in baseball history, highlighting how rare it is to maintain such composure.
The Dodgers struggled offensively yet again, witnessing historic low batting averages in the Series. They only managed to score four runs in 29 innings, and even adjustments in their lineup failed to ignite their hitting. Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the need for changes, saying, “We’ve got to find a way to win.”
Looking ahead, the next game will feature Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who already made headlines with a four-hit complete game earlier in the Series. He faces Kevin Gausman, who aims to secure a win for the Blue Jays.
As the stadium buzzes with anticipation, all eyes will be on whether Yesavage and company can finish what they started.
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