Blue Jays One Step Away of Glory After Yesavage Dominates Dodgers in Fifth Match

Yesavage authored a masterclass on the mound and Davis Schneider homered on the very first pitch as the Blue Jays topped the Los Angeles Dodgers 6–1 on Wednesday evening, moving within one victory of their first World Series championship since the 1993 season.

A Rookie's Record-Setting Night

The 22-year-old Yesavage, who debuted in the majors this past September, struck out 12 without issuing a walk – setting a new World Series record. The first-year pitcher surrendered just one run on three hits over seven frames. He began the year pitching before a few hundred fans in Class A ball, but has now been the winning pitcher in two of Toronto's three wins in this championship series.

A Quick Start for Toronto

Toronto’s hitters provided early support. On the initial throw, Schneider turned on a 97mph fastball and sent it over the left-field fence. Immediately after, Vladimir Guerrero Jr added a second home run to almost the exact same place. It marked the unprecedented occurrence in the World Series that the game began with two straight homers, stunning the crowd before most had taken their places.

Yesavage Takes Control

Yesavage then assumed command. He retired five straight via strikeout between the second and third innings, breaking a rookie pitching record before Hernández ended the run with a solo shot in the third inning to make it 2–1. That was as close as Los Angeles would get.

Building the Advantage

In the fourth, Daulton Varsho tripled down the right-field line after a defensive mistake, and Ernie Clement lifted a sacrifice fly to bring him home for a three to one lead. The Los Angeles offense continued to sputter from there. After scoring six runs in Monday’s 18-inning marathon, 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 Blue Jays loaded the bases. Both runners he left behind came around to score – one on a wild pitch and the other on a run-scoring hit – to make it 5–1. A hit in the eighth provided the final margin.

Bullpen Secures the Win

Yesavage received a standing ovation upon leaving from the traveling fans, and the pen closed it out. The relief corps each tossed a shutout frame to secure the victory, combining for three strikeouts while protecting the rookie's gem.

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 setting a World Series on-base record in Game 3.

On the Verge of a Championship

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

John Perkins
John Perkins

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