What's Happening?
In a standout performance during Game 2 of the World Series, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto delivered a complete game against the Toronto Blue Jays, leading his team to a 5-1 victory. This achievement marks Yamamoto as the first starting
pitcher since Johnny Cueto in 2015 to pitch a complete game in the World Series. Yamamoto's performance was characterized by his ability to retire the final 20 batters he faced, using just 63 pitches. This game follows his previous complete game against the Milwaukee Brewers, making him the first pitcher to throw consecutive postseason complete games since Curt Schilling in 2001. Yamamoto's diverse pitching repertoire, which includes seven pitch-types, was instrumental in his success, allowing him to keep the Blue Jays' hitters off balance throughout the game.
Why It's Important?
Yamamoto's performance is significant as it highlights the rarity and value of complete games in modern baseball, especially during the high-stakes postseason. With only 29 complete games recorded in the 2025 regular season, his ability to deliver such a performance underscores his exceptional skill and endurance. This not only boosts the Dodgers' chances in the series but also provides a strategic advantage by giving their bullpen a much-needed rest. For the Blue Jays, Yamamoto's dominance poses a challenge as they must now adjust their strategy to counter his pitching in future games. The outcome of this series could hinge on the ability of both teams to adapt to such standout performances.
What's Next?
As the series moves to Los Angeles, the Dodgers will look to capitalize on their momentum, while the Blue Jays will aim to replicate their Game 1 success by exploiting the Dodgers' bullpen. The Dodgers' next scheduled starter, Tyler Glasnow, has yet to pitch a complete game in his career, which may provide the Blue Jays with an opportunity to challenge the Dodgers' pitching depth. Both teams will need to strategize effectively to manage their pitching resources and maintain their competitive edge as the series progresses.
