UPDATE: The Toronto Blue Jays have confirmed that rookie Trey Yesavage will start Game 1 of the World Series on Friday, September 15, 2025, against the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers and ace Blake Snell. This marks a historic moment as Yesavage becomes the first rookie to start Game 1 of the World Series since 2006.
Yesavage, just 22 years old, has quickly made a name for himself after making his major league debut just a month ago on September 15. His rapid ascent through the minor leagues saw him progress from Class A Dunedin to Triple-A Buffalo, culminating in this pivotal start. He is set to make his fourth postseason appearance, having already outpaced his regular-season outings, which totaled only three starts.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider announced the decision earlier today, expressing confidence in Yesavage’s abilities despite his youth. Schneider stated, “He’s shown us he can handle the pressure, and we believe in his talent.”
Yesavage has had a mixed postseason so far. He dazzled with an impressive 5 1/3 scoreless innings against the New York Yankees in the Division Series, striking out an astonishing 11 batters. However, he faced challenges in the AL Championship Series, allowing five runs in four innings during one game, but rebounded to secure victory in Game 6 with a solid performance, giving up just two runs in 5 2/3 innings.
The Dodgers, who announced earlier this week that Snell would take the mound for Game 1, will also feature Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Game 2. This matchup pits two teams with a rich history against each other, igniting excitement among fans and analysts alike.
As the clock ticks down to the highly anticipated game, Blue Jays fans are eager to see how Yesavage will perform under the immense spotlight of the World Series. Will he rise to the occasion and lead his team to victory, or will the experience prove overwhelming?
In the meantime, Schneider has not yet committed to a Game 2 starter, keeping options open with veteran pitchers Kevin Gausman, Max Scherzer, and Shane Bieber all in consideration. Gausman pitched in relief during Game 7 of the ALCS, throwing 19 pitches, and Schneider noted it was strategic to give him an additional day of rest.
As the World Series kicks off, all eyes will be on Yesavage and the Blue Jays as they aim to secure their first championship title. Fans and analysts are urged to stay tuned for updates as the game unfolds, marking a defining moment for this exciting rookie and the franchise.
What happens next? The game is set to begin at 7:00 PM ET, and with Yesavage on the mound, the stakes have never been higher.
