Blake Snell to Start Game 1, Yoshinobu Yamamoto to Follow in Game 2 for Dodgers Against Blue Jays in World Series Los Angeles | October 22, 2025
— Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced Tuesday that left-hander Blake Snell will start Game 1 of the World Series on Friday, with Japan’s Yoshinobu Yamamoto slated to pitch Game 2. This comes a day after the Toronto Blue Jays secured their spot in the championship series by winning the American League Championship Series (ALCS). Background The Los Angeles Dodgers secured the National League pennant after a hard-fought playoff run, showcasing a strong pitching roster led by veterans and emerging talents. Blake Snell, a former Cy Young Award winner, has been a key starter for the Dodgers throughout the postseason. Meanwhile, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, an accomplished pitcher from Japan, has impressed in his first MLB season, quickly earning a reputation for his composure and diverse pitching arsenal. The Toronto Blue Jays advanced to the World Series on Monday, defeating strong AL opponents in the ALCS. Their success sets up a highly anticipated cross-league championship series against the Dodgers, whose mix of experienced and international players highlights the evolving global nature of Major League Baseball. Developing Situation Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the starting rotation plans on Tuesday, signaling confidence in Snell’s ability to lead the Dodgers in Game 1. Snell’s performance during the regular season and postseason has shown durability and effectiveness against top-tier hitters. Yamamoto will be tasked with starting the pivotal Game 2, a move praised for leveraging his international experience and talent to maintain momentum. The Dodgers continue to finalize their roster and strategic game plans as they prepare to face the Blue Jays’ powerful lineup. The Toronto team is also expected to announce its starting pitchers shortly, maintaining the competitive suspense leading into the series opener on Friday. Global Reactions The World Series—one of baseball’s most celebrated events—has drawn global attention, especially due to the international mix of players like Yamamoto. Sports analysts in Japan have expressed pride in Yamamoto’s rapid rise and look forward to his continued impact on global baseball. Fans in the United States and Canada await the showdown between the Dodgers and Blue Jays with high anticipation, reflecting the sport’s growing popularity and cultural exchange. Analysis / Outlook The Dodgers’ decision to start Blake Snell in Game 1 reflects a strategic approach focused on experience and veteran poise, while placing Yamamoto in Game 2 signals trust in emerging international talent to sustain pressure on Toronto. This pitching strategy could set the tone early in the series. Experts anticipate tightly contested games given the balanced rosters, with pitching matchups playing a critical role in determining momentum. The global reach of the series may further boost MLB’s international audience and enhance cross-cultural engagement in baseball.
The Vagabond News
Sources: Reuters, BBC, AP
