Toronto Blue Jays rookie Trey Yesavage will be the starting pitcher in the opening game of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Rogers Centre on Friday. Yesavage boasts a 2-1 record with a 4.20 earned-run average and 22 strikeouts across three post-season appearances. Notably, he showcased his talent by striking out 11 batters in 5 1/3 hitless innings against the New York Yankees in the American League Division Series. Although he faced challenges in a loss to Seattle during the AL Championship Series, he delivered a crucial win in Game 6, helping the Blue Jays avoid elimination.
On the other side, the Dodgers will have Blake Snell as their starting pitcher. The Blue Jays have secured a spot in the MLB championship for the first time since their consecutive titles in 1993, while the Dodgers aim to defend their championship title.
Manager John Schneider has not yet revealed the Game 2 starter for the Blue Jays among Kevin Gausman, Max Scherzer, and Shane Bieber. Yesavage, who was the 20th overall pick in last year’s draft from East Carolina University, has progressed through various minor league levels this season, showcasing his skills with a 1-0 record and a 3.21 ERA in September.
There is a possibility that shortstop Bo Bichette may return for the World Series after recovering from a sprained left knee that kept him out for 1 ½ months. Bichette, a two-time All-Star and AL hits leader, sustained the injury in a collision with New York Yankees catcher Austin Wells on September 6. Schneider expressed optimism about Bichette’s progress and mentioned the potential for him to play various positions in the upcoming series.
With the World Series commencing on Friday night, Toronto is set to face off against the Dodgers for the first time since 1993.