In Game 1 of the World Series, the Toronto Blue Jays took charge against the Los Angeles Dodgers, winning 11-4. Fans at Rogers Centre had a bit of fun, chanting “We don’t need you!” as Shohei Ohtani came to bat in the ninth inning. This chant echoed a past where the Jays attempted to sign the star player.
Despite missing Ohtani, the Blue Jays showed incredible power at the plate. They scored nine runs in one inning, highlighted by Addison Barger, who hit the first pinch-hit grand slam in World Series history.
Ohtani himself managed to hit a two-run homer later in the game, marking his first World Series home run, but it wasn’t enough to change the game’s outcome.
What stands out is how much things have changed since Ohtani chose to sign with the Dodgers over the Blue Jays in December 2023. The situation illustrated how quickly fortunes can shift in sports. The Blue Jays, who once sought Ohtani eagerly, now showcased their offensive strength without him.
Recent stats show that teams like the Blue Jays can thrive even without star players. According to a survey from ESPN, 67% of baseball fans believe team chemistry often leads to winning more than having star players on the roster. This hints that while big names can attract attention, teamwork remains vital for success.
In a world where social media critiques every play, the reactions from fans and analysts show a growing appreciation for collective team effort. The Blue Jays’ fans may just have been celebrating this very thing—unity and resilience—by singing out against one of the league’s best.
For more insights into team dynamics and player performance, read studies from The Athletic and ESPN.
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Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays, MLB
