Blue Jays One Step Away of Glory After Yesavage Dominates Dodgers in Game 5

Trey Yesavage turned in a legendary performance and Schneider connected for a homer on the opening pitch as the Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Dodgers 6–1 on Wednesday, standing one win away of their first World Series championship since 1993.

A Rookie's Record-Setting Night

The young Yesavage, who only reached the big leagues in September, fanned a dozen batters without a single walk – setting a new World Series record. The first-year pitcher gave up only a single run on three hits in seven innings. He started the season in Class A before sparse crowds, but has now earned two starting wins in the series in this seven-game set.

A Quick Start for Toronto

Toronto’s hitters jumped out to a fast lead. On the initial throw, Schneider connected with a high-velocity fastball and sent it over the left-field fence. Two pitches later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr homered as well to a similar location. It marked the unprecedented occurrence in the World Series that back-to-back homers started a game, shocking the spectators before most had taken their places.

Yesavage Takes Control

Yesavage then went to work. He retired five straight via strikeout between the second and third innings, setting a rookie record before the streak was snapped by Kiké Hernández with a home run in the bottom of the third to make it two to one. That was as close as Los Angeles would get.

Extending the Lead

In the fourth, Daulton Varsho smacked a triple to right field after a misplay, and Clement delivered a sacrifice fly to bring him home for a 3–1 lead. The Dodgers' bats remained quiet from there. After a six-run output in an 18-inning game, they’ve produced just four runs in their last 29 innings.

Seventh-Inning Rally

The Dodgers starter persisted for over six frames but exited in the seventh after the bases became full. The two inherited runners scored – via a wild pitch and one more on a base hit – to extend the lead to 5–1. A eighth-inning base hit provided the final margin.

Relievers Seal the Deal

Yesavage was cheered off the field from the Blue Jays supporters, and the relievers finished the job. The bullpen arms each tossed a shutout frame to secure the victory, combining for three strikeouts while preserving the rookie’s masterpiece.

Dodgers' Lineup Shuffle Falters

The Dodgers, who adjusted their lineup in hopes of igniting the offense, again couldn't find momentum. Their star slugger went without a hit in four trips and is now riding an 0-for-7 skid since a record-setting on-base performance in the third game.

Looking Ahead to Game 6

Now holding a 3-2 lead, Toronto head back to their home ballpark with two games to secure the title. The sixth game is set for Friday at Toronto's ballpark.

Mary Rodriguez
Mary Rodriguez

A Toronto-based writer passionate about urban culture and sustainable living, sharing personal stories and expert insights.