UPDATE: In an electrifying start to the World Series, the Toronto Blue Jays pummeled the Los Angeles Dodgers 11-4 in Game 1, thanks to a historic nine-run sixth inning on July 15, 2025.
Addison Barger made history by launching the first pinch-hit grand slam in World Series history, propelling the Blue Jays to victory. This explosive inning saw twelve batters take the plate, turning a 2-2 tie into a commanding lead.
Toronto’s surge began with Ernie Clement’s single, followed by a bases-loaded walk from Nathan Lukes. Barger then crushed a 413-foot shot off Anthony Banda to push Toronto ahead 9-2. Alejandro Kirk added a two-run homer, marking his fourth of the postseason, capping off the inning that ranks as the third-most runs scored in a single inning in World Series history.
“To be honest, it was so hard to remember… It was just a blackout moment. It’s just crazy,”
Barger told Fox Sports after the game.
The longball barrage was a fitting tribute as the Fall Classic returned to Toronto for the first time since 1993. Daulton Varsho initiated the comeback with a two-run homer off two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell in the fourth inning.
Despite the loss, Shohei Ohtani hit his first Series home run for the Dodgers, bringing the score to 11-4 in the seventh. Fans expressed their frustration with Ohtani, who signed a staggering $700 million contract with Los Angeles, by chanting, “We don’t need you!” as he approached the plate.
The Dodgers initially took a 2-0 lead against 22-year-old rookie Trey Yesavage. Yesavage, making only his fourth postseason start, became the second-youngest pitcher to start a World Series opener since 1947. He showed resilience by escaping a bases-loaded situation and striking out Max Muncy, showcasing his potential under pressure.
This 9-run inning is critical not only for the game’s momentum but also for historical context. Each of the previous four teams that scored at least 8 runs in an inning went on to win the Series. The Blue Jays’ potent offense featured contributions from key players, including Bo Bichette, who returned from injury to make a significant impact.
Game 2 is set to take place at Rogers Centre on Saturday night, where the Dodgers’ right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto will face off against Toronto’s ace Kevin Gausman. The winner of Game 1 has triumphed in six of the last seven World Series, adding to the stakes for the upcoming match.
“That’s the guy we want on the bump,” said Ernie Clement, referring to Gausman. “We just got to keep rolling.”
As the Blue Jays celebrate their historic win, fans are left eager for more thrilling baseball in this highly anticipated series. Stay tuned for further updates as the World Series unfolds.
