In a thrilling continuation of postseason drama, the Los Angeles Dodgers showcased their resilience in the World Series by defeating the Toronto Blue Jays 6-5 in an unforgettable 18-inning game. This remarkable match unfolded on Monday night, exactly seven years after the Dodgers triumphed over the Boston Red Sox in a historic 18-inning Game 3. With this victory, Los Angeles now leads the best-of-seven series 2-1.
The game reached its climax when Freddie Freeman launched a home run off Brendon Little in the 18th inning, securing the win for the Dodgers. Rookie pitcher Justin Wrobleski expressed his astonishment at the length of the game, saying, “I look up at the scoreboard and the innings that I pitch are no longer on the scoreboard. That’s probably the craziest thing.”
Shohei Ohtani, the dual-threat sensation, delivered a spectacular performance, hitting two home runs and recording two doubles. This achievement marked the first game in World Series history since 1906 where a player had four extra-base hits. Ohtani also tied the record for reaching base nine times in a single game, walking five times, four of which were intentional. Despite suffering a leg cramp while attempting to steal a base in the ninth inning, Ohtani remained in the game, showcasing his incredible stamina and dedication.
This epic showdown saw a staggering total of 609 pitches thrown over the course of 6 hours and 39 minutes, with 44 players and 19 pitchers participating. The Dodgers out-hit the Blue Jays 16-15, but both teams struggled with runners in scoring position. Los Angeles went just 2 for 14, stranding 18 runners, while Toronto finished 2 for 12, leaving 19 on base. “It takes everybody to win a World Series,” remarked Max Muncy, who hit the winning 18th-inning home run in the 2018 World Series against the Red Sox.
Throughout the game, both teams exhibited remarkable defensive plays. Addison Barger of the Blue Jays threw out Freeman at home plate with an impressive 98.5 mph throw, while Vladimir Guerrero Jr. made a spectacular play to cut down Teoscar Hernández at third base. Dodgers second baseman Tommy Edman and Hernández also made critical plays, further emphasizing the high stakes of this World Series encounter.
Veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, made a surprising appearance out of the bullpen in the 12th inning. Kershaw, who is set to retire after the series, came in with the bases loaded and successfully managed to get out of the jam. He humorously noted, “I throw gas now,” as he delivered his fastest pitch since July 2024.
The Dodgers set a new World Series record by utilizing 10 pitchers in this marathon game. Rookie Will Klein earned the win, throwing 72 pitches over four scoreless innings. Klein reflected on the pressure, saying, “There were times when you’re starting to feel down… you just got to be like, well, who else is going to come save me?”
Second baseman Miguel Rojas prepared himself for the possibility of pitching, a role he had taken on during the regular season. With 115 days of rest, he was ready to make history as the first position player to pitch in a World Series. Rojas mentally prepared himself for the challenge, thinking about how to effectively use his pitching arsenal.
As the game extended into extra innings, Wrobleski engaged in various superstitions, changing outfits and shoes in hopes of rallying the team to victory. “Maybe wardrobe change, maybe something to try and get us some runs,” he joked, eventually finding success with a particular pair of white Skechers.
In the Dodgers' clubhouse, Kershaw's children have their own locker, though they were absent during his post-game interview. When asked if they stayed up to watch the end of the game, he replied, “At least two of them did,” highlighting the familial bonds that underpin the sport.
This remarkable game will surely be remembered as one of the most thrilling moments in World Series history, showcasing the heart and determination of the Dodgers as they continue their quest for a championship.
