Dodgers Announce Snell, Yamamoto as Starters for World Series

UPDATE: The Los Angeles Dodgers have confirmed their starting pitchers for the opening games of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays. Manager Dave Roberts announced today that Blake Snell will take the mound for Game 1, followed by Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Game 2, starting on October 27, 2023.

This strategic decision mirrors the successful rotation the Dodgers employed during their NL Championship Series sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers. Snell delivered an incredible performance in Game 1 of that series, striking out 10 batters over eight scoreless innings, marking a historic achievement as the first Dodgers pitcher to complete eight innings while allowing one hit or fewer in postseason history.

Yamamoto also shone brightly in his previous outing, pitching a three-hitter in Game 2 of the NLCS. This feat secured him the title of the first Dodgers pitcher to complete a postseason game since 2004.

As the Dodgers prepare to face the Blue Jays, Roberts indicated uncertainty regarding the starters for Games 3 and 4 at Dodger Stadium. He hinted that Tyler Glasnow and Shohei Ohtani could follow in that order. Ohtani, who was named MVP of the NLCS, made headlines after hitting three home runs and striking out 10 batters in Game 4, propelling the Dodgers to their second consecutive World Series appearance.

The Dodgers’ pitching staff has been exceptional, combining for 35 strikeouts in the NLCS, with Snell, Yamamoto, Glasnow, and Ohtani posting a remarkable 0.63 ERA against the Brewers, allowing just two earned runs in 28 2/3 innings.

Roberts noted that discussions regarding the bullpen lineup are ongoing, especially given the right-handed power hitters in the Blue Jays lineup. “There’s one spot that we could potentially debate, and will continue to debate,” he said, emphasizing the team’s preparedness as they face this formidable opponent.

Additionally, reliever Tanner Scott is eligible to join the World Series roster after recovering from an emergency surgical procedure. Roberts expressed optimism about Scott’s recovery, stating, “I know that he’s anxious, which is a good thing.” The decision will depend on the medical team’s final clearance after observing his performance in practice sessions.

The Dodgers are poised to make a strong statement in the World Series, and fans are eager to see how this talented roster performs against the Blue Jays. With the spotlight on Snell and Yamamoto, the excitement for Game 1 is palpable as the Dodgers aim to capture another championship title.