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TORONTO — Almost by definition, any World Series that goes seven games is a great one, and this certainly has been that, thanks to great performances, surprise heroes, a classic 18-inning game and some late drama in Game 6 to get here.
1. Great performances
Yoshinobu Yamamoto made it through only six innings in the Dodgers’ Series-tying Game 6 win, which was a light day for the iron-man pitcher. Yamamoto, clearly meant for another era, previously logged two straight complete games this postseason, including one in Game 2, and even warmed up for a possible 19th inning in Game 3. He also allowed his usual one run in Game 6, setting himself up for a possible MVP should the Dodgers win.
Shohei Ohtani’s performance in the 18-inning Game 3 is the one that will be recalled forever, no matter who gets the hardware. After starting with four extra-base hits in his first four at-bats (symmetrically, two doubles and two homers), and looking unstoppable, Blue Jays manager John Schneider had him intentionally walked four straight times starting in the ninth, once a homer would have won it. When Ohtani walked a 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 that includes a .412 batting average, 30 times reaching base and 58 total bases. If anyone thought his $500M deal, the highest in the history of the American League, was an overpay, they’ve changed their mind by now.
