The Los Angeles Dodgers showcased their remarkable depth in pitching during Game 3 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, deploying a total of 10 pitchers to secure the victory. Will Klein emerged as a standout, contributing four innings and striking out five batters in an intense contest that lasted 18 innings—making it one of the longest games in World Series history at nearly seven hours.
Upon being asked if he was prepared to pitch again in the crucial Game 4, Klein humorously responded, “As many as they need. Hopefully zero,” reflecting the physical and emotional toll the marathon game had on him and his teammates. As Los Angeles currently leads the series 2-1, they look to capitalize on their momentum from recent back-to-back wins.
Dodgers Aim for Elimination of Blue Jays
Klein’s formidable performance stood out notably as he pitched longer than any of his teammates, aside from starter Tyler Glasnow. The excitement peaked when Freddie Freeman delivered a dramatic walk-off hit to clinch the game for the Dodgers, further solidifying their position in the Fall Classic.
“It’s one of the greatest World Series games of all time. Emotional. I’m spent emotionally,” remarked Dodgers manager Dave Roberts post-game, acknowledging the stamina and grit displayed by both teams in such an arduous matchup. The game indeed wore down pitchers from both squads; while the Dodgers went through ten pitchers, the Blue Jays utilized nine. With the tight contest almost necessitating a 19th inning, Los Angeles was ready to turn to Yoshinobu Yamamoto if needed.
Reflecting on his performance, Klein expressed his gratitude, recounting, “I realized that when I looked around in the bullpen and my name was the only one still there. I was just going to go until I couldn’t, and that’s kind of what happened.” His relief came courtesy of Freeman, who spared the bullpen from further strain as the team prepares for the next game.
As the Dodgers gear up for Game 4, hopes are high for a solid outing from their ace, Shohei Ohtani, as the team attempts to push the Blue Jays to the brink of elimination. Fans eagerly anticipate how these dynamics will unfold as the series progresses.
