The Los Angeles Dodgers faced a daunting challenge in Game 6 of the World Series, going on the road to take on the Toronto Blue Jays with their backs against the wall. However, a hitting barrage in the third inning combined with solid pitching—and a bit of incredible luck—helped the Dodgers secure a 3-1 victory. This win forces a winner-take-all Game 7 on Saturday night.

This World Series has been a back-and-forth battle between two of baseball’s best teams this season. Their pitching staffs, in particular, have been engaged in a war of attrition. The epic 18-inning marathon of Game 3 took a significant toll on both teams’ bullpens, forcing adjustments moving forward.

Interestingly, it was Tyler Glasnow—who many expected to start a potential Game 7—who closed out Game 6 for the Dodgers by inducing two weak fly balls. This development opens up questions about who the Dodgers will turn to as their starter in the decisive matchup, especially considering the pressure of defending their title on enemy turf.

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, Shohei Ohtani is the only logical choice for the Dodgers to start Game 7. The team’s current plan is indeed to have Ohtani take the mound despite being on short rest. He started Game 4 on Tuesday night, which means he has had only three full days of rest.

However, those off-days haven’t been restful for Ohtani, as he has continued to contribute offensively as a hitter. This raises uncertainties about just how fresh he is and how many innings he can realistically pitch on Saturday night. Still, the unique rule allowing a starting pitcher to remain in the game as a designated hitter if relieved means Ohtani’s presence in the lineup can be maximized regardless.

Given these factors, Ohtani stands out as the best option for the Dodgers to face the Blue Jays in Game 7.

Can Shohei Ohtani deliver another two-way masterpiece for the Dodgers?

Ohtani had a historic performance in Game 4 of the NLCS. He shut out the Milwaukee Brewers through six innings while striking out 10 batters, then went on to hit three home runs in three at-bats and drew a walk. Although he wasn’t able to replicate that dominance in Game 4 of the World Series—giving up a home run to Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to start the scoring for Toronto and remaining quiet at the plate—Game 7 is his moment to shine.

As arguably the game’s best player, Ohtani will be looking to cement his reputation as baseball’s undisputed greatest active player in this winner-take-all showdown.
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