The Los Angeles Dodgers triumphed over the Toronto Blue Jays in a gripping 18-inning World Series Game 3, winning 6-5 on October 30, 2023. The match, held at Dodger Stadium, showcased a historic performance by Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, who not only hit two home runs but also made baseball history by tying a 119-year-old major league record with four extra-base hits.
Ohtani’s remarkable night began with a ground-rule double in the first inning, setting the stage for a series of impactful plays. He launched a solo home run off Blue Jays starter Max Scherzer in the third inning, followed by an RBI double in the fifth. By the seventh inning, he had already homered again, delivering a tying shot against reliever Seranthony Domínguez. This brought his postseason total to six home runs in four games, equaling the franchise record for most home runs in a single postseason.
The Blue Jays’ strategy to contain Ohtani was evident, as manager John Schneider intentionally walked him four times throughout the game. This approach allowed Ohtani to set a new postseason record, becoming the first player to be intentionally walked four times in a single game. Despite the walks, Ohtani’s teammates struggled to convert these opportunities into runs, leading to an intense back-and-forth contest.
In a game that lasted over six hours, the Dodgers and Blue Jays exchanged leads multiple times, with Freddie Freeman ultimately sealing the victory with a walk-off home run in the 18th inning. This dramatic finish not only secured the win for Los Angeles but also added another chapter to Ohtani’s already illustrious postseason.
Ohtani’s performance also put him in elite company historically. He became the first player to reach base nine times in a single game since Stan Hack did so in 1942. His four extra-base hits also placed him alongside Frank Isbell, who accomplished the feat in the 1906 World Series.
The Dodgers and Blue Jays had entered this matchup with contrasting fortunes. While Los Angeles was looking to capitalize on Ohtani’s exceptional form, the Blue Jays sought to recover after losing Game 1. Ohtani’s prowess at the plate and his impending start as a pitcher in Game 4 added an intriguing layer to the ongoing series.
As the World Series unfolds, Ohtani’s performance in Game 3 has raised expectations for his upcoming pitching appearance. His dual-threat capabilities as both a hitter and a pitcher have made him a focal point of this championship series, drawing attention from fans and analysts alike.
With the Dodgers leading the series 2-1, they are poised to extend their advantage as they prepare for Game 4. Ohtani’s contributions thus far have not only thrilled fans at Dodger Stadium but have also solidified his status as a key player in this year’s postseason narrative.