blue jays game 3

Blue Jays’ World Series Hopes Ride on Scherzer & Bieber: Game 3 & 4 Pitching Shake-Up

The Toronto Blue Jays are gearing up for a high-stakes showdown in the 2025 World Series, with Max Scherzer and Shane Bieber taking the mound in Games 3 and 4. As the series shifts to Los Angeles, the Jays’ pitching strategy has become the focal point of fans’ attention—and for good reason.

This isn’t just another postseason series. The Blue Jays vs. Dodgers matchup is a clash of two powerhouse teams, each loaded with star power. With the series tied or the Dodgers holding a slim lead (depending on Games 1 and 2), Games 3 and 4 could make or break Toronto’s championship dreams.

Let’s break down the latest, the stakes, and what this means for the Blue Jays’ postseason fate.

Scherzer & Bieber Named Game 3 & 4 Starters: The Official Word

The Blue Jays’ manager John Schneider made the big announcement: Max Scherzer will start Game 3 on Monday night in Los Angeles, followed by Shane Bieber in Game 4 on Tuesday.

This decision, confirmed by MLB.com and Sportsnet, marks a crucial strategic move. Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, brings postseason grit and a reputation for dominating under pressure. Meanwhile, Bieber, the 2020 AL Cy Young winner, offers a strong one-two punch to counter the Dodgers’ deep lineup.

"Scherzer stopped by after Game 7 of the ALCS and asked, ‘When am I starting in the World Series?’" — John Schneider (via MLB.com)

The fact that Scherzer was already asking about his World Series role speaks volumes about his competitive fire—and the Jays’ confidence in him.

Recent Updates: What We Know (and Don’t Know)

1. The Pitching Matchups

• Game 3 (Monday, Los Angeles): Max Scherzer (Blue Jays) vs. Tyler Glasnow (Dodgers)
• Game 4 (Tuesday, Los Angeles): Shane Bieber (Blue Jays) vs. Unconfirmed Dodgers starter (likely Walker Buehler or Bobby Miller)

The Dodgers’ rotation is still in flux, but Scherzer vs. Glasnow is already shaping up as a must-watch duel—two hard-throwing righties with elite strikeout stuff.

2. Blue Jays’ ALCS Momentum

Before the World Series, the Jays proved they could explode offensively in ALCS Game 3, crushing the Seattle Mariners 13-4. The bats—led by Alejandro Kirk’s home run and a resurgent Vladimir Guerrero Jr.—finally woke up after a sluggish start.

"We executed a really good game plan against [Mariners’ Logan Gilbert], knowing he’s going to come right after you." — John Schneider (via MLB.com)

If Toronto’s offense can replicate that aggressive approach against the Dodgers, the series could tilt in their favor.

3. The Dodgers’ Home Field Advantage

The World Series now shifts to Dodger Stadium, where the Dodgers are 6-1 in the postseason. The Blue Jays must steal at least one game in LA to regain control—or risk falling into a 3-1 hole.

Why This Matters: The Bigger Picture

1. Scherzer’s Redemption Arc

Max Scherzer has a history of World Series struggles, including poor outings with the Dodgers in 2017 and 2018. Now, with the Blue Jays, he has a second chance to prove he can deliver on the biggest stage.

"Years after letting Dodgers down, Max Scherzer starts World Series game in LA." — USA Today

A dominant start in Game 3 could silence past criticisms and cement his legacy as a clutch postseason performer.

2. Bieber’s Resurgence

Shane Bieber, once a dominant ace, has battled injuries in recent years. A strong Game 4 outing could silence doubters and remind everyone why he was once considered one of the best pitchers in baseball.

3. The Blue Jays’ Championship Window

The Jays are in "win-now" mode, with stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and George Springer in their primes. If they don’t win now, the pressure to retool could intensify.

A World Series run would validate their aggressive moves (like acquiring Scherzer and Bieber) and solidify Toronto as a modern MLB powerhouse.

Immediate Effects: What Happens Now?

• Game 3 (Monday): If Scherzer dominates, the Blue Jays could even the series heading into Game 4. If not, they risk facing a must-win scenario in Game 4.
• Game 4 (Tuesday): Bieber’s outing could be a turning point. A strong performance keeps Toronto alive; a blowout loss could spell doom.
• Dodgers’ Adjustments: Expect Dave Roberts to lean heavily on his bullpen, especially if Scherzer or Bieber get into early trouble.

Social Impact:
- Toronto’s fanbase is buzzing—expect huge watch parties and social media hype as the Jays chase their first title since 1993.
- Dodgers fans will pack Dodger Stadium, making it a hostile environment for the Jays.

Economic Impact:
- Merchandise sales (especially for Scherzer and Bieber) are spiking.
- Ticket prices for Games 3 & 4 in LA are skyrocketing, with some resale seats exceeding $1,000.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for the Blue Jays?

Best-Case Scenario:

• Scherzer & Bieber pitch deep, the offense stays hot, and the Jays take a 2-2 series tie back to Toronto.
• Home-field advantage in Games 5, 6, and 7 could be decisive.

Worst-Case Scenario:

• Struggling pitching leads to a 3-1 Dodgers lead, putting the Jays on the brink of elimination.
• Injuries or fatigue could derail the rotation, especially if Scherzer’s age (40) becomes a factor.

Long-Term Implications:

• If the Blue Jays win the World Series, expect a parade in Toronto and long-term contract extensions for key players.
• If they lose, the front office may face tough decisions—do they rebuild or retool?

Final Takeaway: A Pivotal Moment for Toronto

The 2025 World Series is more than just another championship chase for the Blue Jays—it’s a legacy-defining opportunity. With Scherzer and Bieber on the mound in Games 3 and 4, Toronto has a real shot to turn the tide.

The next two games will be electric. Whether the Jays rise to the occasion or fall short, one thing is certain: Canadian baseball fans won’t miss a single pitch.

Will the Blue Jays make history? Or will the Dodgers prove too much to handle?

Stay tuned—this series is just heating up. ⚾🔥