The World Series is finally here, and we are here to help prepare you for Game 1 between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays. Both teams will look to strike early and jump out to an early lead, and I expect to see scoring early on in Game 1. Let’s dive in and discuss our 1st inning preview!
YRFI/NRFI Best Bet: Toronto Blue Jays vs Los Angeles Dodgers – YRFI (+116)
Odds available at FanDuel sportsbook at time of publishing. Playable to +105 odds.
It is a given that quality starting pitching will play a major role in Game 1 of any World Series, but I lean towards the offense early on in Game 1 given current pricing. The Los Angeles Dodgers represent the National League once again after winning the World Series in 2024. They will look to get things started early as they hope to repeat as champions once again this year. Toronto was not nearly as hyped during Spring Training, but they had an excellent season in their own right. The Blue Jays won the tough AL East and earned the top seed in the American League overall. Their mix of high contact bats and a deep pitching staff has them well positioned to compete for their first title since 1993.
Los Angeles is favored in Game 1 with a price ranging from -150 to -160 at the time of publishing. They are favorites despite beginning this series on the road, and their starting pitcher is a large reason why. Blake Snell has been tremendous in his last 6 starts, providing the Dodgers with timely production after an injury-plagued regular season. Snell finished his regular season with 3 starts spanning 19 innings of 1-run ball with 28 strikeouts. His first 3 postseason starts have combined for 21 innings with 2 earned runs allowed and 28 more strikeouts. His form is the main reason why we get such a playable price for the YRFI in this game. That being said, Snell is more than capable of issuing free passes, and this Toronto has done well with advancing runners and leaning into their high-contact nature. A first inning run is always within play for a World Series caliber lineup.
While I wouldn’t bet on Snell to allow a 1st inning run, although possible, I do believe the Dodgers have a quality shot of striking within the first frame. Toronto is starting Trey Yesavage in Game 1 of the World Series. The rookie right-hander made just 3 regular season starts spanning a combined 14 innings of work. In those 14 frames Yesavage issued 7 free passes leading to 5 earned runs allowed. He dazzled in his postseason debut against the Yankees, tossing 5.1 hitless innings with 11 strikeouts. His next 2 appearances combined for 9.2 innings with 6 walks, 2 home runs, and 7 earned runs allowed. There is clearly talent in his arm, and I don’t blame Toronto for believing in their right-hander. The stage may prove to large, however, especially when facing a daunting Dodgers lineup with several hall-of-famers at the top of the order. At +105 or better I like the YRFI in this game.
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