World Series Game 1: Dodgers Face Blue Jays in Toronto Opener

Toronto hosts its first World Series game since 1993 as both teams look to set the tone in Game 1.

Baseball fans, get ready to buckle up—Friday night is about to be a rollercoaster. The Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays are squaring off in Game 1 of the World Series, and the Rogers Centre in Toronto will be buzzing like a beehive. First pitch is at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT), so set your reminders and maybe grab some popcorn. This isn’t just any game for Toronto—it’s their first World Series appearance since 1993. You can catch every pitch on FOX and MLB.TV in the U.S., while Canadian fans have their pick of Sportsnet, TVA Sports, or RDS. Talk about a coast-to-coast baseball bonanza!

The Dodgers are rolling out left-hander Blake Snell, who’s got a 5-4 record, a sparkling 2.35 ERA, and nerves of steel when October rolls around. On the flip side, the Blue Jays are putting their faith in rookie right-hander Trey Yesavage. He’s 1-0 with a 3.21 ERA and has shown he’s not afraid of the bright lights. Both pitchers have been as steady as a metronome this postseason—no stage fright here.

When it comes to offense, the Dodgers are bringing out the big guns. Shohei Ohtani is your designated hitter—need we say more? Mookie Betts is holding down shortstop, and Will Smith, despite sporting a hairline fracture in his right hand (talk about grit!), is expected to catch. Freddie Freeman is a rock at first base. Tommy Edman, swinging a hot bat but nursing a right ankle injury, is penciled in at second. Teoscar Hernández, Max Muncy, Kiké Hernández, and Andy Pages round out a lineup that’s as deep as a well.

Toronto’s lineup is no slouch either. George Springer, fresh off a clutch home run in the ALCS, will be patrolling right field. Fans can also relive another thrilling chapter in Toronto’s postseason journey by reading the Yankees rally Blue Jays game recap, where Aaron Judge’s late homer turned the tables in a dramatic ALCS showdown.Davis Schneider, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Bo Bichette—who’s just returned from a knee injury—are ready to keep the momentum rolling. Alejandro Kirk, Ernie Clement, Daulton Varsho, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, and Andrés Giménez fill out the order. With Guerrero Jr. and Springer both riding hot streaks, the Blue Jays are hoping to catch lightning in a bottle.

The Dodgers’ bullpen is anchored by Roki Sasaki as closer, with Anthony Banda, Blake Treinen, and Emmet Sheehan waiting in the wings. Alex Vesia, however, will be watching from the sidelines for Game 1. Toronto counters with Jeff Hoffman handling closing duties, backed up by Louis Varland, Seranthony Domínguez, Brendon Little, Braydon Fisher, Chris Bassitt, and Eric Lauer. It’s a chess match in the late innings—one wrong move, and the game could slip away like sand through your fingers.

Injuries are lurking in the shadows, ready to tip the scales. For Los Angeles, Will Smith’s hand and Tommy Edman’s ankle are still question marks, but both are expected to tough it out. Toronto gets a boost with Bo Bichette back from his knee issue, but Anthony Santander is out of the World Series with a back injury. George Springer, after a kneecap scare, seems to be back in fighting shape. In October, everyone’s a little banged up—just part of the dance.

Here’s a stat to chew on: about 62% of Game 1 winners go on to win the championship. No pressure, right? With Toronto hosting its first World Series game in over thirty years, the stakes couldn’t be higher. If you’re feeling nostalgic, you can relive classic moments like Joe Carter’s legendary 1993 home run on MLB’s website. Goosebumps guaranteed.

So, whether you’re tuning in on FOX or MLB.TV in the U.S., or catching the action on Sportsnet, TVA Sports, or RDS in Canada, you won’t want to miss a pitch. For schedules, player updates, and all the latest buzz, the MLB official site is your one-stop shop. Let the games begin!