world series game 4

Blue Jays Silence Ohtani, Level World Series in Game 4 Thriller

The 2025 World Series took another dramatic turn in Game 4, as the Toronto Blue Jays bounced back from an exhausting 18-inning loss to defeat the Los Angeles Dodgers 6-2, evening the series at 2-2. The game, played at Dodger Stadium, saw Vladimir Guerrero Jr. deliver a pivotal two-run homer off Shohei Ohtani, silencing the Dodgers’ star-studded offense and setting up a crucial Game 5 in Los Angeles before the series shifts to Toronto.

For Australian baseball fans, the matchup was another showcase of the sport’s global appeal, with Ohtani—the $1 billion superstar—facing off against a resurgent Blue Jays team that proved they can hang with the best.

Recent Updates: Guerrero’s Big Blast & Ohtani’s Struggles

Key Moments from Game 4

• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. opened the scoring with a two-run homer off Shohei Ohtani in the third inning, marking the first time Ohtani had allowed a home run in the postseason.
• The Blue Jays added four runs in the fifth, capitalising on Dodgers’ defensive miscues and timely hitting.
• Bo Bichette continued his hot streak, driving in a crucial run to extend Toronto’s lead.
• The Dodgers, despite a late rally attempt, were stifled by Toronto’s bullpen, managing just two runs.
• George Springer (Blue Jays’ leadoff hitter) was a late scratch due to a right side discomfort, raising questions about his availability for the remainder of the series.

Ohtani’s Reality Check

Fox Sports dubbed it a "$1bn superstar’s reality check"—Ohtani, who had been dominant in his previous starts, was tagged for three runs in four innings. His fastball velocity dipped, and Guerrero’s homer exposed his vulnerability under pressure.

"Ohtani’s two-way dominance has been the story of the postseason, but tonight, the Blue Jays showed he’s human," noted ESPN’s post-game analysis.

Dodgers’ Championship Hopes Take a Hit

The loss meant the Dodgers could no longer clinch the title at home, with Games 6 and 7 (if necessary) set to be played in Toronto. For a team that spent over $400 million on payroll, the pressure is mounting to avoid an embarrassing collapse.

Contextual Background: A Series of Extremes

The Marathon Game 3 That Shook the Series

Just 24 hours before Game 4, the Dodgers and Blue Jays played the longest World Series game in history (18 innings, 6 hours 57 minutes). The Dodgers won 6-5, but the physical toll was evident—both teams had to dig deep into their bullpens, and fatigue played a role in Game 4’s outcome.

Ohtani vs. Guerrero: The Next Generation’s Battle

This series has become a showcase for two of MLB’s brightest young stars:
- Shohei Ohtani (Dodgers) – The two-way phenom, fresh off a historic 50-50 season, is trying to cement his legacy as the best player in baseball.
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (Blue Jays) – The power-hitting slugger, son of Hall of Famer Vlad Sr., has been Toronto’s offensive engine.

Guerrero’s homer off Ohtani wasn’t just a highlight—it was a statement.

Blue Jays’ Resilience After a Crushing Defeat

Coming off the 18-inning loss, the Jays could’ve folded. Instead, they delivered their most complete performance of the series, with strong pitching and timely hitting. Manager John Schneider praised the team’s mentality:

"We’ve been in tough spots before. This group doesn’t quit."

Immediate Effects: What This Means for the Series

For the Dodgers: A Wake-Up Call

• Bullpen Fatigue – After using nine pitchers in Game 3, the Dodgers’ relievers were overworked, forcing Ohtani to pitch on short rest.
• Offensive Struggles – Outside of Freddie Freeman (2024 World Series MVP), the Dodgers’ bats went cold.
• Home Crowd Pressure – With the series heading to Toronto, the Dodgers now face a hostile environment if they reach Games 6 or 7.

For the Blue Jays: Momentum Shift

• Confidence Boost – Beating Ohtani and the Dodgers’ high-priced roster validates Toronto’s championship credentials.
• Springer’s Health Concerns – If the leadoff hitter is sidelined, the Jays may need Davis Schneider or Will Wagner to step up.
• Home Field Advantage – Games 6 and 7 will be at Rogers Centre, where the Jays have been dominant all postseason.

Future Outlook: The Road to Game 5 & Beyond

Game 5: The Pivotal Showdown

• Probable Pitchers: Kevin Gausman (TOR) vs. Jack Flaherty (LAD) – Both starters were sharp in Game 1, setting up a rematch.
• Key Factor: Can the Dodgers’ offense rebound, or will the Blue Jays’ pitching continue to dominate?

Potential Scenarios

1. Dodgers Win Game 5, Take Series Lead (3-2) – They’d have two chances (Game 6 at Toronto, Game 7 if needed) to close it out.
2. Blue Jays Win Game 5 (3-2) – The series becomes a best-of-three, with Toronto holding home field for the final two games.
3. If It Goes to Game 7 – A historic showdown at Rogers Centre, where the Jays have thrived under pressure.

Bigger Implications

• For Ohtani’s Legacy – A World Series title would solidify his place among the all-time greats. A collapse could raise questions about his ability to perform on the biggest stage.
• For the Blue Jays – A first-ever championship would transform the franchise’s history, especially after years of near-misses.
• For Baseball’s Global Growth – With stars like Ohtani and Guerrero, MLB’s international appeal is soaring—especially in markets like Australia, where baseball is gaining traction.

Final Thoughts: A Series for the Ages

With two games left in LA and the potential for a Game 6 or 7 in Toronto, the 2025 World Series is living up to the hype. The Blue Jays’ Game 4 win wasn’t just a comeback—it was a statement of intent.

As the series shifts, one thing is clear: This is far from over. Whether it’s Ohtani’s redemption, Guerrero’s heroics, or a Dodgers’ late surge, the best is yet to come.

For Australian fans tuning in, the World Series has never been this unpredictable—or this exciting.

Stay locked in—Game 5 is a must-watch. ⚾