In just two powerful hits, a tight pitchers’ duel transformed into a Los Angeles Dodgers’ lead against the Toronto Blue Jays. Will Smith and Max Muncy each launched solo home runs off Kevin Gausman in the seventh inning, propelling the Dodgers to a 5-1 victory to even the World Series at one game apiece at Rogers Centre.
Dodgers’ starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto delivered a remarkable back-to-back post-season complete game performance to secure the win, impressing Blue Jays manager John Schneider. This achievement marked the first occurrence since 2001 when Curt Schilling accomplished consecutive post-season complete games and the first time since 2015 that a pitcher threw a complete game in the World Series.
Yamamoto’s stellar outing included nine innings pitched, allowing only one earned run on four hits while striking out eight batters. On the other side, Gausman matched Yamamoto through six innings, with both pitchers surrendering just one run. However, Gausman faltered in the seventh inning, while Yamamoto remained dominant, sealing the victory for the Dodgers.
Despite Gausman’s strong performance with 17 consecutive batters retired, Smith and Muncy’s timely hits made the difference. Gausman admitted to some regret over his outing, acknowledging the challenge posed by Yamamoto’s exceptional display on the mound.
Yamamoto, who signed a lucrative contract in 2024, showcased his composure and pitching prowess in critical moments, earning praise from Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts. The series now stands at a pivotal juncture, with the Dodgers gaining home-field advantage for Game 3 in Los Angeles, leaving the Blue Jays with a tough task ahead to avoid facing Yamamoto again in Game 6.
