Shohei Ohtani Set to Start World Series Game 7 for Dodgers

Shohei Ohtani will take the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 7 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays on October 28, 2023. This pivotal matchup showcases the two-way star, who is expected to play a crucial role in this decisive game of the championship series.

The decision to start Ohtani rather than using him as a relief pitcher aligns with a rule implemented in the 2022 MLB season. This rule allows starting pitchers who are also designated hitters to remain in the game as DH after they exit the mound. If Ohtani were to start purely as a designated hitter, the Dodgers would lose the DH position if he were later substituted for a relief pitcher.

Dodgers Force Deciding Game 7

In Game 6, the Dodgers edged out the Blue Jays with a 3-1 victory, forcing a winner-takes-all Game 7. The victory was led by Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who secured his second win against Toronto in the series. Mookie Betts played a pivotal role in the game, delivering a two-run single during a three-run third inning.

Yamamoto lasted six innings, allowing only one run on an RBI single from George Springer, who returned after missing two games due to injury. The game concluded dramatically with rookie relievers Justin Wrobleski and Roki Sasaki combining to secure the final outs, while veteran Tyler Glasnow came in to close out a tense ninth inning.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that while Ohtani is a strong candidate to start Game 7, Glasnow is also an option. On the opposing side, three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer is set to start for the Blue Jays. This marks Scherzer’s second time pitching in a World Series Game 7, aiming for his third championship ring.

Blue Jays Look for First Title Since 1993

This Game 7 is particularly significant for the Blue Jays, as it will be their first appearance in a World Series Game 7. The team is striving to capture its third championship title, after winning back-to-back titles in 1992 and 1993. The stakes are high for both teams, with the Dodgers seeking to become the first organization to win consecutive titles since the New York Yankees’ streak from 1998 to 2000.

As the teams prepare for this climactic showdown, all eyes will be on Ohtani and Scherzer, whose performances could ultimately determine the outcome of this historic game. The anticipation is palpable as fans await the start of what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the World Series.