After decisively triumphing over the New York Yankees in the American League Division Series and pulling off a remarkable comeback victory against the Seattle Mariners in the American League Championship Series, the Toronto Blue Jays have secured a spot in the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, considered the Final Boss.
Undoubtedly, the Blue Jays have captured the nation’s attention this season as a remarkable team. However, facing the Dodgers, a powerhouse in baseball, presents a significant challenge for Toronto.
Comparing the two teams reveals an interesting dynamic. Despite the Dodgers boasting the highest payroll in MLB at $350 million US, with Toronto not far behind at $255 million US, L.A. spent $95 million US more than Toronto but won one fewer regular season game.
Beyond financial metrics, the home run aspect is crucial. While the Blue Jays have seen impressive performances from George Springer and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Shohei Ohtani of the Dodgers stands out with an impressive 55 home runs, surpassing the combined total of the Jays’ top sluggers.
Toronto excelled in batting average and on-base percentage during the regular season, showcasing their strength in offensive capabilities.
In terms of pitching, the Dodgers have displayed a more robust lineup during the post-season, with three of their top pitchers holding an ERA of under two. Only Kevin Gausman of the Jays has a stronger ERA than Ohtani from the Dodgers.
The head-to-head matchup history between the Jays and Dodgers shows a mixed record, with the Jays winning only one game in recent encounters against the Dodgers.
The Dodgers bring a deep playoff history to the table, having consistently performed well in the post-season since 2013, winning the World Series twice in recent years.
As the Blue Jays embark on their World Series journey, they carry the hopes of a nation eager for another major championship. The last Canadian team to achieve this feat was the Toronto Raptors in 2019. The upcoming series against the Dodgers presents an opportunity for the Jays to defy the odds and emerge victorious.
The first game of the World Series will kick off on Friday at 8 p.m. at Rogers Centre, marking the beginning of an exciting and challenging series for both teams.