Who Will Start Game 7: Shohei Ohtani Set for Historic World Series Finale

Shohei Ohtani will start Game 7 of the 2025 World Series for the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. The two-way superstar takes the mound in tonight’s winner-take-all clash, marking one of the most anticipated pitching matchups in modern MLB history.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed Ohtani’s Game 7 start just hours before first pitch. Ohtani will oppose veteran ace Max Scherzer, with Tyler Glasnow expected to follow in bulk relief if needed. First pitch is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on FOX.

Ohtani to Start Game 7 for Dodgers

Ohtani’s start comes on just three days’ rest — a rare occurrence in his big league career. The last time he pitched on such short notice was back in April 2023, when he threw seven scoreless innings after a rain-shortened start. This will also be Ohtani’s second start of the World Series after allowing four runs across six-plus innings in Game 4 at Dodger Stadium.

Manager Dave Roberts told reporters the decision was simple. “This is Game 7,” he said. “You trust your players and try to win a baseball game.”

Ohtani’s ability to contribute both as a starting pitcher and as a leadoff hitter gives the Dodgers a unique edge. Under MLB’s two-way player rule, he can remain in the lineup as the designated hitter even after his pitching stint ends. This strategy avoids the risk of losing the DH spot — something that would occur if Ohtani entered later as a reliever.

Since his return to pitching earlier this season, Ohtani has often been used in multi-inning “opener” roles. That experience could help him deliver two or three efficient innings before Glasnow or another reliever takes over.

How the Dodgers Will Manage Their Pitching Staff

Roberts confirmed that nearly every arm in the Dodgers’ bullpen will be available for Game 7. The only exception is Game 6 starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who tossed a complete-game victory two nights earlier. Beyond Ohtani and Glasnow, Los Angeles could call on former Cy Young winner Blake Snell and Japanese closer Roki Sasaki, both of whom are expected to be ready out of the bullpen.

Snell has struggled against Toronto this postseason, surrendering five earned runs in both Game 1 and Game 5. Sasaki, on the other hand, threw 33 pitches in Game 6 and wasn’t at his sharpest, but remains one of the Dodgers’ most trusted arms in high-leverage situations.

For Toronto, Scherzer brings championship experience and a competitive edge. The veteran has made a career out of thriving in pressure moments and will aim to quiet the Dodgers’ potent offense early.

The Stakes for Game 7 at Rogers Centre

Tonight’s matchup marks the Dodgers’ second straight year playing a World Series Game 7, and a win would make them the first team to repeat as champions since the 1998–2000 Yankees dynasty. For Ohtani, this outing is about more than a title — it’s a chance to cement his two-way legacy on baseball’s biggest stage.

Blue Jays fans are ready for history, too. Toronto hasn’t won a championship since 1993, and their home crowd at Rogers Centre promises a deafening atmosphere. Every pitch, every swing, and every managerial decision will matter.

Shohei Ohtani’s Game 7 start answers the season-long question of who will start Game 7 for the Dodgers. Now, all eyes are on Toronto to see if he can deliver another unforgettable chapter in baseball history.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who will start Game 7 of the 2025 World Series?

Shohei Ohtani will start for the Los Angeles Dodgers, while Max Scherzer starts for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Q2: What time is Game 7 of the World Series?

The decisive Game 7 starts at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT) at Rogers Centre in Toronto.

Q3: Will Shohei Ohtani also bat in Game 7?

Yes. Ohtani will start as both pitcher and designated hitter under MLB’s two-way player rule.

Q4: Who is available from the Dodgers bullpen?

All pitchers except Yoshinobu Yamamoto are available, including Tyler Glasnow, Blake Snell, and Roki Sasaki.

Q5: How many days of rest does Ohtani have?

Ohtani is pitching on three days’ rest, the second time in his MLB career he’s done so.