blue jays pitchers

Blue Jays Pitchers on the Brink: How Toronto’s Bullpen Survived Game 3 and What’s Next for Game 4

The Toronto Blue Jays’ 2025 World Series run has reached a fever pitch, and the spotlight is firmly on their pitching staff. After an exhausting 18-inning marathon in Game 3, the Blue Jays are down to their last relievers, their starters are stretched thin, and their manager is running on coffee fumes. But in the face of near-certain defeat, Toronto’s pitchers have shown grit, heart, and a few surprises that could shift the momentum of the series.

Let’s break down the latest on the Blue Jays’ pitching situation, the impact of their recent games, and what fans can expect as the series heads into Game 4 and beyond.

The 18-Inning Nightmare: How the Blue Jays Almost Ran Out of Pitchers

Game 3 of the 2025 World Series was one for the history books—not just for its length, but for how the Blue Jays’ bullpen was pushed to the absolute limit.

In the 18th inning, with Toronto down to their last available pitcher, Freddie Freeman stepped up to the plate. The Blue Jays had already used seven relievers, and manager John Schneider was forced to make desperate decisions. According to The Spec, the team was “down to their last pitcher” when Freeman delivered a crushing blow, extending the Dodgers’ lead and ultimately sealing the win for Los Angeles.

The game, which lasted over five hours, was a test of endurance—not just for the players, but for the entire pitching staff. Every reliever from the high-leverage arms to the long-men was called upon. By the time the 18th inning rolled around, Toronto’s bullpen was completely gassed.

But the story doesn’t end there.

Recent Updates: Who’s Available for Game 4?

The big question heading into Game 4 is simple: Who can pitch?

According to MLB.com, the Blue Jays’ bullpen availability is “tight,” with only a few relievers likely to be ready. The most notable name ruled out is Eric Lauer, who delivered what Sportsnet.ca called an “unbelievable” performance in Game 3. Lauer threw three scoreless innings in extra frames, giving the Blue Jays a fighting chance—but at a cost. He’s now unavailable for Game 4 due to workload.

“It was a marathon,” Schneider said in a post-game interview. “We emptied the tank. We’re going to need every guy who can throw a strike tomorrow.”

Here’s the current status of key relievers (as of Tuesday afternoon):

Shane Bieber, who started Game 2, is not available for Game 4 but could return in Game 5. The Blue Jays are also considering bullpen games or opener strategies to manage workloads.

The Eric Lauer Factor: A Heroic Effort That Nearly Saved the Game

One of the standout performances in Game 3 came from Eric Lauer, a veteran lefty who was called upon in the 15th inning. What followed was nothing short of heroic.

Lauer entered with the bases loaded and one out, facing the heart of the Dodgers’ order. He proceeded to strike out Mookie Betts and get Freddie Freeman to pop out—escaping the jam unscathed.

“That was unbelievable,” said Blue Jays catcher Danny Jansen. “He came in cold, hadn’t pitched in days, and just dominated. That’s what you need in these moments.”

Lauer went on to throw three scoreless innings, striking out four and walking none. His performance bought the Blue Jays time—time they desperately needed. But as Sportsnet.ca noted, “The outing nearly saved the Blue Jays… but the bullpen had nothing left.”

Lauer’s effort is a reminder of how crucial depth and versatility are in October baseball. With the Blue Jays’ rotation stretched thin, it’s the relievers who are now carrying the load.

Context: Why This Matters in the Big Picture

The Blue Jays’ pitching situation isn’t just a one-game issue—it’s a series-defining challenge.

Historical Precedent: When Bullpens Run Dry

• In the 2018 World Series, the Dodgers used nine pitchers in a 13-inning Game 3. The Red Sox followed up with a bullpen game in Game 4, winning 9-6.
• In 2021, the Braves’ bullpen was exhausted after a 10-inning Game 5. They lost Game 6 and the series.

The lesson? Bullpen management is everything in the World Series. One marathon game can derail an entire team’s strategy.

The Blue Jays’ Pitching Philosophy

Toronto has built a reputation for aggressive bullpen usage under manager John Schneider. They’re not afraid to use starters in relief, mix in openers, or go with “bullpen games” when needed. But even their flexible approach has limits.

With Max Scherzer (Game 3 starter) and Kevin Gausman (Game 1) both on short rest, and Chris Bassitt (Game 2) needing time to recover, the Blue Jays are relying more than ever on their depth arms.

This is where players like Trey Yesavage, a 22-year-old rookie, come into play.

The Rookie Who Could Save the Series: Trey Yesavage’s Moment

In a stunning move, the Blue Jays announced that Trey Yesavage will start Game 5 at Dodger Stadium. The rookie right-hander, who made his MLB debut in September, will make his second World Series start and fifth of the postseason.

Yesavage, a first-round pick in 2024, has been a revelation. He’s posted a 2.45 ERA in the playoffs, with a 35% strikeout rate and a 96 mph fastball. His ability to mix in a devastating slider and changeup has made him a matchup nightmare.

“He’s not your typical rookie,” said pitching coach Pete Walker. “He’s got ice in his veins. We trust him in big spots.”

Yesavage’s ascension from Double-A to the World Series in one season is one of the most remarkable stories of the 2025 playoffs. If he can deliver a quality start in Game 5, it could give the Blue Jays a chance to take control of the series.

But first, they need to survive Game 4.

Immediate Effects: What This Means for the Series

The Blue Jays’ pitching situation has **immediate and far-reaching