Dodgers vs. Blue Jays: World Series Game 1 Preview, Lineups & Pitching Match‑up

As the 2025 Major League Baseball season reaches its dramatic climax, all eyes turn to the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays, who will square off in Game 1 of the World Series on Friday evening at the Rogers Centre in Toronto.

Historic stakes and momentum

The Blue Jays are returning to the Fall Classic for the first time since 1993, marking a turnaround moment for the franchise and its faithful fan‑base.Meanwhile the Dodgers arrive as defending champions, aiming to become the first club in a quarter‑century to repeat. The narrative is ripe: underdog resurgence versus established powerhouse.

Game 1: timing and broadcast

First pitch is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on Friday, with the Blue Jays enjoying home‑field advantage thanks to their slightly better regular‑season tally.

Probable starting line‑ups

According to recent projections, both teams are likely to field the following batting orders:

Dodgers (projected)

1. Shohei Ohtani (DH)
2. Mookie Betts (SS)
3. Will Smith (C)
4. Freddie Freeman (1B)
5. Tommy Edman (2B)
6. Teoscar Hernández (RF)
7. Max Muncy (3B)
8. Kiké Hernández (LF)
9. Andy Pages (CF)

Blue Jays (projected)

1. George Springer (RF)
2. Davis Schneider (LF)
3. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (1B)
4. Bo Bichette (DH) if healthy
5. Alejandro Kirk (C)
6. Ernie Clement (3B)
7. Daulton Varsho (CF)
8. Isiah Kiner‑Falefa (2B)
9. Andrés Giménez (SS)

Pitching matchup

While the Dodgers had yet to officially announce their Game 1 starter at the time of publication, available reports suggest they may lean into their rotation strategy deployed during the NLCS — with big arms ready for the opening game.

On the Blue Jays’ side, the use of a left‑hander (given the Dodgers’ lineup) is in play — though final confirmation is pending.

Key Storylines to Watch

• Momentum vs. Pressure: The Blue Jays come in riding the high of clinching their league pennant after a tough battle, whereas the Dodgers bear the weight of repeat expectations.
• Line‑up depth and superstar presence: With Ohtani, Betts and Freeman anchoring the Dodgers, and Guerrero Jr. and Springer leading Toronto, both clubs have impact hitters who can swing a game.
• Rotation strength: The Dodgers’ starting pitching has been a cornerstone of their October run, giving them an edge in a short series.
• Psychological edge of Game 1: Historically, winners of Game 1 in the World Series tend to capture the title — in 63 % of past series, and 80 % of those since 1995.

What it means

Winning Game 1 could provide a decisive advantage in a best‑of‑seven format: it sets tone, provides separation, and applies pressure on the opponent. If the Dodgers capture it, they reinforce their status as favourites; if the Blue Jays steal it at home, they galvanise a city and their momentum.