As we approach the highly anticipated Game 1 of the World Series, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the matchups will unfold. Below, we outline three crucial aspects to keep an eye on as the Toronto Blue Jays face off against the Los Angeles Dodgers later today.
The Toronto Blue Jays are in the final stages of finalizing their World Series roster, and a significant question looms over the team: What will happen with star shortstop Bo Bichette? After missing crucial games during the regular season due to a PCL strain, Bichette appears on the brink of a dramatic return. Following the American League Championship Series (ALCS), Bichette expressed confidence in his readiness to play tonight.
Manager John Schneider also hinted during a media session yesterday that a return for Bichette is a distinct possibility. However, the ultimate decision lies with the Toronto medical staff, who will assess his condition after yesterday’s workouts. Should Bichette secure a spot on the roster, there’s a chance he may not play shortstop right away. Instead, he could start at second base, allowing him to ease back into defensive responsibilities. Notably, Andres Gimenez has excelled at shortstop during Bichette’s absence, showcasing his superior defensive skills.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have already made headlines with one major roster announcement ahead of today’s full roster reveal: Clayton Kershaw will indeed be part of the World Series roster. This decision comes after Kershaw faced challenges during the National League Division Series (NLDS) and was not included in the Wild Card roster or the NLCS. With this World Series likely being the last of his illustrious career, it will be intriguing to see how the Dodgers manage to provide their franchise icon and future Hall of Famer with a fitting sendoff while striving to become the first repeat World Series champions since the 2000 Yankees.
In addition to Kershaw, there are questions surrounding the availability of pitcher Tanner Scott. After undergoing a minor procedure on his lower body, Scott was excluded from the NLDS roster and subsequently ineligible for the NLCS. Although he struggled throughout the 2025 season, he is not far removed from being one of the most dominant relievers in baseball.
The excitement continues as the first two games of the World Series will take place in Toronto this weekend. Both games are set to start at 8 PM local time. Game 1 tonight will showcase Trey Yesavage (3.21 ERA) on the mound for the Blue Jays, going head-to-head against Dodgers lefty Blake Snell (2.35 ERA).
Snell has been nothing short of impressive this postseason, boasting a remarkable 0.86 ERA and striking out 28 batters in three starts. However, Yesavage has shown that he can rise to the occasion as well. Despite a postseason ERA of 4.20, his performance has been more impressive than the numbers suggest. In the ALDS, he struck out an astonishing 11 Yankees in 5 1/3 no-hit innings. While he faced challenges during a tough Game 2 start in the ALCS, he rebounded in Game 6, providing 5 2/3 innings of solid two-run ball with seven strikeouts.
As the World Series kicks off, all eyes will be on these pivotal roster decisions and matchups that could shape the outcome of the games. Fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be an exciting showdown between the Blue Jays and the Dodgers.
