Dodgers World Series Preview: Mariners vs Blue Jays Which Team is the Better Matchup

Basio badr

ago 9 hours

The Los Angeles Dodgers are waiting to see who will compete against them in the upcoming 2025 World Series. The Dodgers have demonstrated exceptional form this October, posting a 9-1 record, including a sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series. As anticipation builds for the World Series, fans are contemplating whether the Seattle Mariners or Toronto Blue Jays present a more favorable matchup for their team.

Dodgers World Series Preview: Mariners vs. Blue Jays

Reasons to Favor the Toronto Blue Jays

Pitching Exhaustion: The Blue Jays faced challenges early in their ALCS series, losing the first two games at home. They need to utilize rookie Trey Yesavage in a potential Game 7 to stay alive. This reliance on inexperienced players could work to the Dodgers’ advantage as their pitching staff can be strategically rested and aligned.
Limited Lefty Matchups: The Blue Jays have shown vulnerability against dominant left-handed pitchers. Key pitchers from the Blue Jays, such as Brendon Little and Mason Fluharty, are relatively inexperienced, which could be beneficial for the Dodgers, who excel in their left-handed pitching lineup.
Injuries Impacting Lineup: Although Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is a significant offensive threat, the Blue Jays are missing key players. Outfielder Anthony Santander and shortstop Bo Bichette have been absent, while George Springer recently suffered an injury, rendering the lineup less formidable.

Reasons to Favor the Seattle Mariners

Offensive Strikeouts: The Mariners’ offensive strategy has resulted in a high strikeout rate, ranking seventh in the majors at 23.3 percent. This could allow the Dodgers, known for their impressive pitching staff, to capitalize on swing-and-miss opportunities.
Ownership of Starting Rotation: If Bryan Woo is healthy, the Mariners could match the Dodgers’ elite pitching. Starters like Logan Gilbert and George Kirby have proven effective. Woo’s health will be a key storyline should the Mariners advance, and they need his consistency in the rotation.
Home-Field Dynamics: A Mariners victory would grant the Dodgers home-field advantage for the World Series. The Dodgers were strong at Dodger Stadium, finishing the regular season with a 52-29 home record. In contrast, the Mariners struggled on the road, with a 4.50 ERA compared to a solid 3.28 ERA at home.

As both teams vie for a spot in the World Series, the choice between the Seattle Mariners and Toronto Blue Jays will be pivotal for the Dodgers. Each opponent presents unique challenges and advantages that could influence the outcome of the championship series.