2025 World Series Game 2 Preview: Blue Jays Lead 1-0 as Dodgers Aim to Rebound in Toronto

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Blue Jays Surge Ahead with 1-0 Lead After Game 1 Rout

The Toronto Blue Jays electrified Rogers Centre with an 11-4 rout of the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the 2025 World Series, their first Fall Classic appearance since 1993. A historic nine-run sixth inning, featuring Addison Barger’s first-ever World Series pinch-hit grand slam and Alejandro Kirk’s two-run homer, powered Toronto’s victory. As Game 2 looms on October 25, the Dodgers, chasing their third title in six years, look to even the series. Check the sports card above for the latest Game 2 updates and the full series schedule.

Game 1 Highlights: Toronto’s Explosive Offense

Toronto overcame a 2-0 deficit sparked by Daulton Varsho’s two-run homer in the fourth off Dodgers ace Blake Snell. The sixth inning saw 12 Blue Jays batters, with key contributions from:

• Bo Bichette, who drew a crucial walk to start the rally.
• Ernie Clement’s go-ahead RBI single.
• Nathan Lukes’ bases-loaded walk and Andrés Giménez’s RBI single.
• Barger’s 413-foot grand slam, a historic first.
• Kirk’s fourth postseason homer, capping the nine-run outburst.

The 44,353 fans roared, reliving Toronto’s 1993 glory when Joe Carter hit a walk-off homer. Varsho, named after former Phillies catcher Darren Daulton, added a poetic tie to that historic moment.

Dodgers’ Struggles and Ohtani’s Spark

The Dodgers took an early 2-0 lead with RBI singles from Kiké Hernández and Will Smith, but squandered chances, leaving bases loaded in the second. Shohei Ohtani hit a two-run homer in the seventh, his first in a World Series, but it wasn’t enough. Toronto fans, still stung by Ohtani’s 2023 decision to sign with LA, chanted “We don’t need you!” in the ninth. Blake Snell struggled, allowing five runs, while relievers Emmet Sheehan and Anthony Banda couldn’t stop the Blue Jays’ surge.

Game 2 Pitching Matchup: Yamamoto vs. Gausman

Game 2 features a marquee showdown:

• Yoshinobu Yamamoto (Dodgers): Fresh off a complete-game three-hitter in the NLCS, Yamamoto aims to repeat his 2024 World Series Game 2 dominance (1 run, 6 1/3 innings).
• Kevin Gausman (Blue Jays): Making his World Series debut, Gausman looks to keep Toronto’s momentum alive before the series shifts to Los Angeles.

Toronto’s Historic Lineup and Fan Energy

Toronto’s lineup made history with Bo Bichette, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Daulton Varsho—the first trio of sons of former major leaguers to start a World Series game. Bichette, playing second base despite a knee injury, and rookie Trey Yesavage, who held LA to two runs, energized the raucous crowd. The Blue Jays’ 14 hits showcased their depth as they aim for their first title since 1993.

Dodgers’ Path to Recovery

Despite the Game 1 loss, Dodgers fans remain optimistic, as seen at a Pasadena sports bar. With a potent lineup and a 23-4 record in the last 27 World Series after winning Game 1, the odds favor Toronto, but LA’s resilience and stars like Mookie Betts and Ohtani could shift the momentum.

How to Watch Game 2 and Beyond

• Time: 8:00 PM ET, October 25, Rogers Centre, Toronto
• TV/Streaming: FOX, FOX Deportes, Fubo, or MLB.TV (authenticated)
• Radio: ESPN Radio, Univision Radio
• Tickets: Available via Ticketmaster

See the sports card above for the full World Series schedule, including Games 3-5 in Los Angeles.

Conclusion: A High-Stakes Game 2 Awaits

The Blue Jays’ Game 1 dominance, fueled by Barger’s grand slam and a relentless offense, sets the stage for a critical Game 2. Can the Dodgers rebound with Yamamoto on the mound, or will Toronto’s home crowd and Gausman push them to a 2-0 lead? Stay tuned for live updates and catch every moment of the 2025 World Series!

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