Blue Jays Aim to Reignite Offense in World Series Game 3 Preview

The Toronto Blue Jays are eager to reignite their offense in World Series Game 3 against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The teams are currently tied in the series at 1-1, following a strong showing by Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Game 2. The showdown moves to California, with the Blue Jays aiming not only to bounce back but also to regain the series lead.

Game 2 Recap and Performance Highlights

Game 2 showcased an exceptional performance by Yamamoto, who delivered a complete game—his second of the postseason. His efforts came as a relief for the Dodgers, who struggled with their bullpen this season. On the Blue Jays’ side, starting pitcher Kevin Gausman also performed admirably, allowing just one run in six innings. However, he faltered in the seventh, conceding two home runs and leading manager John Schneider to seek help from the bullpen.

Series Context

Currently, the series is set as a best-of-five after the opening games. The Dodgers, known for their strong playoff performance, lost only one game leading up to the World Series. Securing a win in Game 3 would position the Blue Jays uniquely, potentially allowing them to be the first team this postseason to defeat the Dodgers twice in a series.

Starting Pitcher Matchup

• Max Scherzer: The veteran will take the mound for the Blue Jays. At 41, this marks Scherzer’s opportunity to make history as the first pitcher to compete for four different teams in World Series history.
• Tyler Glasnow: The Dodgers respond with Glasnow, who has had an outstanding postseason, boasting an ERA of 0.68 through 13 innings and 18 strikeouts.

Strategies and Lineup Updates

With three games scheduled over three consecutive days, bullpen management will be paramount. Schneider had the luxury of extra rest for his best relievers after the Blue Jays’ commanding performance in Game 1. Conversely, Yamamoto’s complete game in Game 2 benefited the Dodgers’ bullpen.

In lineup changes, Bo Bichette returns to the starting position for Game 3, taking the field at second base. This keeps Andres Gimenez positioned at shortstop and George Springer in the designated hitter role.

Key Focus for the Blue Jays

As they prepare for Game 3, the Blue Jays need to strike early against Glasnow. They succeeded in chasing Blake Snell from Game 1 early on and aim to replicate that success against another elite starter. With critical games ahead, the Blue Jays must capitalize on every opportunity to control the pace of the match.

Catch the Toronto Blue Jays in their quest for the world title against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 3 on Monday at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT. Tune in to Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ for the broadcast.