
It took six hours and 39 minutes, 18 innings, and a whole lot of coffee, but the Los Angeles Dodgers finally took the lead in the 2025 World Series thanks to Freddie Freeman’s walk-off blast. This was a game for the ages, full of drama, strategy, and more bullpen arms than a pitching clinic. The Dodgers now lead the series 2-1 over the Toronto Blue Jays, but don’t let the scoreboard fool you — both teams left every ounce of effort on the field in what’s already being dubbed an instant classic.
It wasn’t just long — it was historic. The Dodgers and Blue Jays combined for 19 pitchers, including some unexpected cameos. Will Kline, take a bow. The right-hander threw four critical innings of scoreless relief and snagged the unofficial MVP honors for keeping the Dodgers alive long enough for Freeman to do what Freeman does. Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw even made a surprise bullpen appearance, looking more fired up than a teenager on energy drinks.
The Blue Jays weren’t shy on effort either. Eric Lauer gave them quality innings, and even Shane Bieber was spotted warming up in the bullpen. But the toll was heavy. With their bullpen gassed and George Springer sidelined with an oblique strain, Toronto is limping into Game 4 with more questions than answers — and a real need for someone to step up.
Shohei Ohtani had the kind of night that makes you wonder if he’s even real. The two-way superstar had four extra-base hits, including a game-tying homer in the seventh, and became just the second player in World Series history to rack up four extra-base knocks in one game. He’s now got multiple postseason games with 12+ total bases — oh, and he hasn’t made an out in Dodger Stadium in his last 12 at-bats. That’s not a hot streak. That’s video game numbers.
Toronto got so spooked they started treating him like Barry Bonds, walking him intentionally four times. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had no problem with that — after all, when you’ve got Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman waiting behind him, pick your poison. Blue Jays skipper John Schneider tried to pitch around him in the seventh, but Ohtani made him pay. Again.
After a game that felt longer than some relationships, both teams are staring down the barrel of a quick turnaround. Game 4 looms, and with both bullpens running on fumes, the starters will need to eat innings like it’s Thanksgiving dinner. Ohtani is expected to take the mound, though questions remain about how fresh he’ll be after his marathon performance. He’s 18 months removed from Tommy John surgery, and his velocity has dipped late in the year.
Shane Bieber could also get the nod for Toronto, but the Jays are now in triage mode. With Springer likely out and their pitching depth stretched thinner than a dollar menu burger, they might turn to Roki Sasaki or even Chris Bassitt for length. If Ohtani can’t go deep, the Dodgers might call on Jack Dreyer to bridge the gap. Either way, expect some creative managing and maybe a few more surprise bullpen cameos.

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The Mariners’ bats and bullpen overpowered Detroit, while Aaron Judge’s clutch homer sparked a Yankees comeback. Dodgers’ pitching dominates, the splitter is trending, and Brewers are outplaying the Cubs with poise—October baseball at its most electric.

The Detroit Tigers staged a stunning 9-3 comeback over the Mariners to force a decisive Game 5 in the ALDS. Meanwhile, the Cubs evened their series against the Brewers with a strong bullpen showing and a hot Christian Yelich. The Phillies dominated the Dodgers as Kershaw struggles continue, and the Blue Jays outclassed the Yankees behind Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s hitting. Betting insights highlight momentum swings, bullpen dynamics, and key player performances shaping the playoff picture.
This World Series has already delivered a classic, and there’s still plenty of baseball left to play. If Game 3 was any indication, buckle up — and maybe brew another pot of coffee.