When Trey Yesavage, a 22‑year‑old right‑hander for Toronto Blue Jays, took the mound on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Rogers Centre in Toronto, he became the second‑youngest pitcher in MLB history to start a World Series Game 1. The rookie limited the Los Angeles Dodgers to two runs over four innings, struck out five batters and, in doing so, eclipsed the Blue Jays’ post‑season strikeout record with 27 Ks across his first four playoff starts.
Historical Context and Rookie Feat
Only Ralph Branca — the 21‑year‑old left‑hander who started Game 1 of the 1947 World Series for the Brooklyn Dodgers — was younger when he threw the series opener. Yesavage, drafted in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft, debuted at Tropicana Field on September 15, 2025, and this was only his seventh big‑league appearance. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, he also became just the second pitcher ever to have more postseason starts than regular‑season outings.
Game Details and Pitching Performance
Yesavage’s four‑inning effort featured an 80‑pitch count: 10 splitters, the rest a mix of a high‑velocity fastball (down about 1 mph from his 95 mph norm) and a razor‑sharp slider. The most memorable moment came early when he fanned Shohei Ohtani with a splitter that seemed to vanish out of the zone. His arm‑angle release was measured at 69 %, the highest recorded for a right‑hander in postseason history — a near‑over‑the‑top delivery that gave his pitches extra vertical movement.
After the fifth inning, left‑hander Mason Fluharty entered to face Ohtani and the rest of the Dodgers’ lineup. The Dodgers, fresh off a sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLCS, were hunting a repeat championship, a feat only the New York Yankees have managed since the 1970s.
Reactions from Home Town and Coaches
Back in Boyertown Area High School, the community declared October 24 “Trey Day.” Students roamed the hallways in Blue Jays caps, and banners waved in the cafeteria. Todd Moyer, the 39‑year‑veteran head coach of the high‑school baseball program, said, “I would have preferred him in Game 2, but seeing him start Game 1 is a storybook beginning for a kid from our town.”
In a post‑game interview in the Rogers Centre clubhouse at roughly 10:45 PM EDT, Yesavage reflected, “It was an insane experience that I’ll remember for the rest of my life. I wish I could have done a little better, but that’s why this is a team sport.” Earlier, he added, “My goal is to strike out everybody I face, so getting a hot start really boosted my confidence.”
Impact on the Series and Franchise
The 11‑4 victory gave Toronto its first World Series win since 1993, when they beat the Philadelphia Phillies. The Blue Jays’ offense exploded in the sixth inning, piling on nine runs and turning a tight contest into a commanding lead. For the Dodgers, the loss highlighted lingering concerns about bullpen depth, especially after a grueling NLCS run.
Statistically, Yesavage’s 27 post‑season strikeouts now top the franchise record previously held by David Price. The rookie’s elevated release angle, combined with his mix of splitters and sliders, gave his opponents a look they hadn’t prepared for in a World Series setting.
What Lies Ahead
Game 2 is scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 8:08 PM EDT, also at Rogers Centre. If the Blue Jays can ride the momentum, they’ll aim to take a 2‑0 series lead. The Dodgers, meanwhile, will look to their power bats — notably Mookie Betts and Cody Bellinger — to answer back.
Analysts note that while Yesavage’s workload will be closely monitored, his poise under pressure bodes well for Toronto’s long‑term rotation. As one former scout put it, “You don’t often see a kid with that arm angle and composure in a World Series debut. If he stays healthy, the Blue Jays could have a frontline for years.”
Key Facts
- Yesavage’s age: 22 years, 88 days — second‑youngest World Series Game 1 starter.
- Post‑season strikeouts: 27 (Blue Jays record).
- Pitch count: 80 pitches, 10 splitters.
- Arm‑angle release: 69 % (highest for a right‑hander in postseason history).
- Final score: Toronto 11, Los Angeles 4.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Yesavage’s performance affect the Blue Jays’ chances in the series?
His strong start gives Toronto a 1‑0 lead and boosts confidence in a rotation that lacked World Series experience. If he stays healthy, the Jays can rely on his high‑angle delivery as a tactical advantage, especially against left‑handed hitters.
What made the Dodgers vulnerable in Game 1?
A combination of early strikeouts, especially Ohtani’s whiff, and a lagging bullpen after a grueling NLCS left them unable to respond to Toronto’s nine‑run sixth inning. Their lineup also struggled to adjust to Yesavage’s unusual release angle.
Who are the key figures supporting Yesavage’s rise?
His high school coach Todd Moyer has long praised his work ethic, while Blue Jays pitching coach Dave Bush (not previously mentioned) has helped fine‑tune the splitter that fanned Ohtani. The franchise’s scouting department also highlighted his 2024 draft pedigree.
What’s the historical significance of the Blue Jays’ World Series return?
It ends a 32‑year drought since the 1993 championship and marks the first time a Canadian team has opened a World Series since the 1992 Toronto win. The city’s fan base, long hungry for a title, now enjoys a tangible shot at a second championship.
