Dodgers Confirm Snell, Yamamoto as Starters for World Series

URGENT UPDATE: The Los Angeles Dodgers have just announced their starting pitchers for the first two games of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays. Blake Snell will take the mound for Game 1 on Friday, October 27, 2023, followed by Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Game 2, according to manager Dave Roberts.

This announcement reinforces the Dodgers’ strategy as they look to replicate their successful pitching order from the NL Championship Series, where they swept the Milwaukee Brewers. Snell shone in Game 1 of that series, striking out 10 batters over eight scoreless innings, making history as the first Dodgers pitcher to accomplish eight innings with one hit or fewer in postseason play.

Yamamoto also delivered a stellar performance, pitching a complete game while allowing only three hits in Game 2, marking the first complete game for the Dodgers in the postseason since 2004. These strong outings have solidified their positions as key players in the upcoming showdown.

As for Games 3 and 4, which will be held at Dodger Stadium, Roberts has not yet finalized the starting rotation but hinted that Tyler Glasnow and Shohei Ohtani could follow in that order. Ohtani, who was named MVP of the NLCS, made a significant impact in Game 4 by striking out 10 batters and hitting three home runs.

The Dodgers’ pitching staff has been impressive throughout the postseason, with their starters combining for 35 strikeouts against the Brewers and posting a remarkable 0.63 ERA over 28 2/3 innings. This performance has raised expectations as they prepare to face the Blue Jays, known for their powerful right-handed hitters.

Roberts mentioned that while the bullpen lineup is still under discussion, the team is prepared for the challenge ahead. “There’s one spot that we could potentially debate, and will continue to debate,” he stated, emphasizing that the majority of the roster will remain unchanged.

Additionally, relief pitcher Tanner Scott is eligible for the World Series roster after recovering from an emergency surgical procedure. Roberts noted Scott is eager to return, pending clearance from medical staff following his recent bullpen sessions.

The Dodgers are poised for a thrilling World Series as they aim to secure another championship. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as these games unfold in what promises to be an electric matchup against the Blue Jays.