TORONTO – Almost by definition, any World Series that lasts seven games is great, and that certainly has been the case, thanks to great performances, surprise heroes, a classic 18-inning game and some late drama in Game 6 to get here.
1. Great performance
Yoshinobu Yamamoto got through just six innings in the tying Game 6 of the Dodgers Series, which was a light day for the Iron-Man pitcher. Clearly meant for a different era, Yamamoto has already logged two straight straight games this postseason, including one in Game 2, and even warmed up for a possible 19th inning run in Game 3. He also allowed his usual run in Game 6, setting himself up for a possible MVP if the Dodgers win.
Shohei Ohtani’s performance in the 18-inning Game 3 is the one that will forever be remembered, regardless of who gets the hardware. After starting with four extra base hits in his first four at-bats (symmetrical, two doubles and two home runs), and looking unstoppable, Blue Jays manager John Schneider intentionally had him walk four in a row starting in the ninth, once a home run would have won it. When Ohtani walked for the fifth time, he became only the fourth player (in any game, postseason or not) to reach base nine times.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. continued his torrid October, with a .412 batting average, reaching base 30 times and 58 total bases. If anyone thought his $500 million deal, the largest in American League history, was overpaying, they’ve since changed their minds.
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