Dodgers Confirm Snell and Yamamoto as World Series Starters

URGENT UPDATE: The Los Angeles Dodgers have just announced their starting pitchers for the first two games of the World Series. Blake Snell will take the mound for Game 1 on Friday, October 13, 2023, followed by Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Game 2 against the Toronto Blue Jays, as confirmed by manager Dave Roberts earlier today.

This matchup is critical, as the Dodgers aim to capitalize on their recent dominant performance in the NL Championship Series, where Snell and Yamamoto played pivotal roles in a four-game sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers. Snell showcased his prowess with an impressive 10 strikeouts over eight scoreless innings in Game 1, making history as the first Dodgers pitcher to complete eight innings while allowing one hit or fewer in a postseason game. Meanwhile, Yamamoto delivered a stellar performance, pitching a three-hitter in Game 2, marking the first complete game for the Dodgers in the postseason since 2004.

As the series approaches, Roberts has not finalized the starters for Games 3 and 4 at Dodger Stadium but hinted that Tyler Glasnow and Shohei Ohtani could follow in that order. Ohtani recently made headlines with a spectacular Game 4, where he not only struck out 10 batters but also hit three home runs, earning him the MVP title of the NLCS.

The Dodgers’ pitching lineup has been nothing short of exceptional, combining for 35 strikeouts in the NLCS and posting a remarkable 0.63 ERA against the Brewers, allowing only two earned runs in 28 2/3 innings. As the team prepares for the World Series, Roberts indicated that they are still evaluating their bullpen lineup, particularly facing the Blue Jays’ right-handed power hitters, which presents a new challenge.

“There’s one spot that we could potentially kind of debate, and will continue to debate,” Roberts stated. Meanwhile, reliever Tanner Scott has been cleared for the World Series roster after a recent surgical procedure. He expressed optimism about his recovery, with Roberts confirming that they will continue to monitor his progress closely.

With the World Series just days away, the Dodgers are aiming to build on their momentum and secure another championship title. Fans and analysts alike will be watching intently as this thrilling matchup unfolds. Stay tuned for further updates as the Dodgers finalize their roster and strategy leading into the first pitch!