2025 World Series Game 7 Preview: Ohtani vs. Scherzer Headlines Dodgers-Blue Jays Decider

The 2025 World Series reaches its final act as the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays face off in a winner-take-all Game 7 on Saturday night. The showdown at Rogers Centre will decide whether the Dodgers become the first back-to-back champions since the 2000 New York Yankees or if the Blue Jays claim their first title in 32 years. Shohei Ohtani will start for Los Angeles against Max Scherzer for Toronto in one of the most anticipated pitching duels in recent memory.

First pitch is set for 8 p.m. ET, and fans around the world are eager to see how this historic matchup unfolds. Both teams have fought through six intense games filled with late drama, clutch hitting, and strategic brilliance. Now, one final night will determine baseball’s 2025 champion.

Dodgers and Blue Jays Set for High-Stakes Final

The Dodgers, led by manager Dave Roberts, turn to two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani to open the game. Ohtani’s ability to dominate on both the mound and at the plate has defined Los Angeles’ postseason run. After throwing six innings in Game 3, he now returns on short rest in the most crucial start of his MLB career.

For Toronto, veteran Max Scherzer will take the mound. Scherzer’s postseason has been uneven, but his experience in big moments remains invaluable. Blue Jays manager John Schneider confirmed that “everyone is available,” including Kevin Gausman and Chris Bassitt out of the bullpen. The Jays’ pitching depth may give them flexibility if Scherzer faces early trouble.

ESPN analysts noted that Toronto’s bullpen, particularly relievers Jeff Hoffman and Mason Fluharty, could play a decisive role against a Dodgers lineup stacked with sluggers like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith. Meanwhile, Los Angeles has Tyler Glasnow, Roki Sasaki, and Blake Snell ready to support Ohtani if needed.

Offensive Momentum and Key Matchups

The Dodgers’ offense finally showed signs of life in Game 6, led by Betts breaking his slump and sparking a key rally. Los Angeles will need that same patience and discipline at the plate against Scherzer and the Jays’ relief arms. Ohtani, Smith, and Freeman remain the core threats capable of changing the game with one swing.

For the Blue Jays, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. continues to be the focal point of the lineup. Batting behind George Springer and ahead of Bo Bichette, Guerrero’s ability to deliver in key spots could determine Toronto’s fate. The lineup balance, including young hitters like Addison Barger and Daulton Varsho, will be vital against Ohtani’s fastball-splitter mix.

Analysts have predicted a tight game shaped by execution and bullpen control. Jesse Rogers of ESPN believes “Toronto’s pitching setup is in better shape,” while Bradford Doolittle expects Los Angeles’ offensive firepower to prove decisive. Even veteran writer David Schoenfield kept his pre-series prediction: Blue Jays in seven.

Historic Stakes and X-Factors

Game 7s are remembered for heroes who rise in the biggest moments. From Bill Mazeroski in 1960 to Howie Kendrick in 2019, legends are made in games like this. For 2025, all eyes are on Ohtani and Guerrero Jr. — two generational stars who could define their legacies tonight.

Other X-factors include Dodgers catcher Will Smith, who has capitalized on intentional walks to Ohtani, and Blue Jays reliever Chris Bassitt, who has thrown 7⅔ scoreless postseason innings so far. Each could become the difference-maker in a tense, low-scoring battle.

The 2025 World Series Game 7 promises to deliver everything baseball fans dream of — elite pitching, drama under pressure, and the ultimate question of who will stand as champion when the final out is made.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is starting Game 7 of the 2025 World Series?

Shohei Ohtani will start for the Dodgers, while Max Scherzer takes the mound for the Blue Jays at Rogers Centre.

Q2: What time does Game 7 start?

Game 7 begins at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, November 2, 2025, and will be broadcast nationally on Fox and Fox Deportes.

Q3: What’s at stake for both teams?

The Dodgers are seeking their second straight title, while the Blue Jays aim for their first championship since 1993.

Q4: Who are the key players to watch?

Keep an eye on Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts for the Dodgers, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Chris Bassitt for the Blue Jays.

Q5: How can fans follow live updates?

Fans can follow pitch-by-pitch updates through official MLB and ESPN Gamecast coverage.