Blue Jays On the Brink of Glory After Yesavage Tames Los Angeles in Fifth Match

Yesavage authored a masterclass on the mound and Davis Schneider launched a home run on the game's initial offering as the Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Dodgers 6–1 on Wednesday evening, needing just one more triumph of their first title since the 1993 season.

A Rookie's Record-Setting Night

The 22-year-old Yesavage, who only reached the big leagues in September, recorded 12 strikeouts and zero walks – the first pitcher in World Series history to do so. The rookie right-hander gave up only a single run on three hits in seven innings. He started the season in Class A before sparse crowds, but has now started and won two of Toronto’s three victories in this championship series.

Early Offensive Explosion

Toronto’s hitters provided early support. On the initial throw, Schneider drilled a 97-mile-per-hour heater and sent it over the left-field fence. Just moments later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr homered as well to a similar location. It marked the historic first for the Fall Classic that back-to-back homers started a game, leaving the audience in awe before most had found their seats.

Yesavage Takes Control

Yesavage then went to work. He struck out five consecutive batters between the second and third innings, breaking a rookie pitching record before Kiké Hernández finally broke the streak with a home run in the bottom of the third to make it 2–1. That was the nearest the Dodgers came.

Building the Advantage

In the fourth, Daulton Varsho tripled down the right-field line after a misplay, and Clement delivered a sacrifice fly to bring him home for a three to one lead. The Dodgers' bats remained quiet from there. After scoring six runs in Monday’s 18-inning marathon, they’ve produced just four runs in their last 29 innings.

Seventh-Inning Rally

The starting pitcher lasted into the seventh inning but was chased in the seventh after the Blue Jays loaded the bases. Both runners he left behind came around to score – via a wild pitch and the other on a run-scoring hit – to make it 5–1. A hit in the eighth provided the last run.

Relievers Seal the Deal

Yesavage exited to a standing ovation from the Toronto faithful, and the bullpen did the rest. The relief corps each tossed a shutout frame to end the game, fanning three batters collectively while maintaining the stellar start.

Dodgers' Lineup Shuffle Falters

The Dodgers, who rearranged their batting order in search of a spark, again found little traction. Their star slugger went hitless in four at-bats and is now riding an 0-for-7 skid since a record-setting on-base performance in Game 3.

Looking Ahead to Game 6

Now holding a 3-2 lead, Toronto go back to their own stadium with two chances to clinch. Friday evening features Game 6 at Rogers Centre.

Sandra Reed
Sandra Reed

A passionate traveler and writer sharing personal experiences and expert advice on Canadian destinations and outdoor activities.