Dodgers Win 2025 World Series After Controversial Calls in Game 7

The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Toronto Blue Jays in a dramatic 11th inning yesterday, securing the 2025 World Series title after a game filled with pivotal managerial decisions.

A questionable instruction to Blue Jays runner Isiah Kiner-Falefa in the bottom of the 9th inning with the bases loaded and one out proved critical. Kiner-Falefa was directed to take a minimal lead off of third base, ostensibly to avoid a double play, but the small lead prevented him from scoring on a subsequent ground ball. This decision has sparked debate among baseball analysts, with many arguing a larger lead would have been the safer play. You can find more information about base running strategy at MLB.com.

Meanwhile, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts made a game-saving defensive substitution in the 9th, replacing center fielder Tommy Edman with Andy Pages. Pages made a crucial, game-saving catch in left-center field, colliding with left fielder Kike Hernandez to secure the out. Had Pages not been in the game, the play likely would have resulted in a Blue Jays score. This win marks the Dodgers’ eighth World Series championship in franchise history, and their first since 2020.

Despite a late home run by Dodgers catcher Will Smith in the 11th inning and a grueling pitching performance from Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the game ultimately hinged on these strategic decisions from both dugouts. Dodgers officials stated they will review the game film to analyze the impact of each play.