Wisconsin, Milwaukee Ties Shine in 2025 World Series
The 2025 World Series is set to begin on Friday in Toronto, featuring the Blue Jays against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This matchup sees the Dodgers aiming to defend their championship title after winning in 2024. Notably, several players with Wisconsin ties will participate in this prestigious series.
Former Brewers Making an Impact
- Eric Lauer: A former first-round draft pick by the Padres in 2016, Lauer joined the Brewers in 2019. He collected a 4.22 ERA over four seasons. Now with the Blue Jays, he posted a 3.18 ERA and struck out 102 batters in 104.2 innings this season.
- Esteury Ruiz: Ruiz spent part of the 2022 season with the Brewers and was involved in significant trades during his tenure. Known for his speed, he led the majors in steals in 2023 but struggled in 2024 with limited impact on the Dodgers.
Wisconsin Natives in the World Series
- Daulton Varsho: Hailing from Marshfield, Varsho is a prominent player for the Blue Jays. After being traded from the D-backs, he faced injury challenges but contributed significantly during the playoffs, batting .273.
- Ben Rortvedt: A second-round pick out of Wisconsin, Rortvedt has had a challenging career but found a spot on the Dodgers. He is batting .428 during the postseason.
- Will Call: Though originally from Minnesota, Call became a standout at River Falls High School. He’s performed well in the postseason for the Dodgers.
- Alan Roden: A recent draft pick, Roden made his MLB debut this season and is remembered for a viral moment. He was later traded to the Minnesota Twins.
Additional Players with Wisconsin Connections
- Anthony Banda: Banda, who began his career with the Brewers, has been a valuable player for the Dodgers, achieving a notable postseason ERA.
- Michael Heineman: After several seasons across multiple teams, Heineman made a significant impact with the Blue Jays this year.
- Sam Francis: A former Brewers draft pick, Francis has been sidelined with injury but has shown promise in his career.
- Justin Schultz: Schultz joined the Blue Jays after being traded from the Brewers and made his MLB debut this season.
- Louis Varland: A bonus highlight, Varland, who has a connection to the Brewers, made a solid appearance in the postseason.
This year’s World Series will showcase a blend of talent and local pride, especially from Wisconsin, enhancing the excitement for fans of both teams.
