The Toronto Blue Jays are set to take on the Los Angeles Dodgers in a highly anticipated Game 7 of the World Series, with the potential to join an elite group of teams that have achieved the remarkable feat of transitioning from last place to World Series champions. The Blue Jays, who have made history by winning the American League East division for the first time since 2015, are chasing their first championship in over three decades. This year’s run, marked by a remarkable turnaround from finishing last in the 2024 season to securing the division title, has positioned them for a historic victory.
The game, set for Saturday night at 8 p.m. ET on FOX, could mark the end of an unforgettable season for Toronto. The Blue Jays finished last in the AL East division in 2024 with a 74-88 record, failing to make the playoffs. This year, however, they have transformed their fortunes, winning the division title for the first time since 2015 and now standing on the brink of history. The Blue Jays are looking to celebrate their first World Series since 1993 with a win over the Dodgers.
Joining the Blue Jays in this historic narrative are the 1991 Minnesota Twins and the 2013 Boston Red Sox, both of whom went from last place in their respective divisions to World Series champions. The Twins, who finished in last place in the AL West in 1990, secured a dramatic World Series win in 1991 over the Atlanta Braves, thanks to Jack Morris’ heroic Game 7 performance. Similarly, the 2012 Red Sox, who were last in the AL East, toppled the St. Louis Cardinals in six games to win the 2013 World Series.
The Blue Jays will face off against the Dodgers, with Max Scherzer, possibly in his final start of an illustrious career, set to take the mound. Scherzer will be facing off against Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers’ star player, in a pivotal matchup. The game could also have significant implications for the players and the teams involved, as Scherzer’s performance could determine the outcome of the series.
Toronto’s hopes for a World Series victory were dashed in Game 6, where they lost 3-1, as the Dodgers turned a tremendous double play to end the game in the bottom of the ninth inning, despite the Blue Jays threatening. Scherzer, who has had a mixed season with a record of 5-5 and a 5.19 ERA in 17 starts, is expected to be in the spotlight for his Game 7 performance. Blue Jays manager John Schneider praised Scherzer’s readiness for the high-stakes game, saying,