The Los Angeles Dodgers emerged victorious in a historic Game 3 of the World Series, defeating the Toronto Blue Jays 6-5 in an epic battle that extended into the early hours of October 24, 2023. A dramatic walk-off home run by Freddie Freeman in the bottom of the 18th inning not only secured the win but also gave the Dodgers a 2-1 lead in the series. This game marked only the second time in World Series history that a contest has lasted more than 14 innings.
The match, which unfolded at Dodgers Stadium, lasted a staggering 6 hours and 39 minutes. The previous record for a World Series game exceeding 14 innings was set in 2018, when the Dodgers defeated the Boston Red Sox 3-2 on a walk-off from Max Muncy.
Both teams showcased remarkable resilience throughout the game. The Blue Jays initially fell behind but managed to rally from a 2-0 deficit in the fourth inning. This comeback was highlighted by Alejandro Kirk hitting a three-run homer to center field, followed by a sacrifice fly from Andrés Giménez that gave Toronto a brief 4-2 lead.
The Dodgers responded in the fifth inning, with a double from Shohei Ohtani bringing them back within one run. Freeman then tied the game with a single, setting the stage for a back-and-forth encounter. In the seventh inning, Bo Bichette put the Blue Jays ahead again with a single that scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr., but Ohtani answered back with a solo home run, marking his second homer of the game. Ohtani’s performance was historic; he tied a 119-year-old MLB record by becoming the first player since 1906 to achieve four extra-base hits in a World Series game.
As the game progressed, the tension escalated. Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw made a pivotal appearance out of the bullpen in the 12th inning, successfully navigating through a two-out, bases-loaded situation, a critical moment that kept the Dodgers in contention.
The late innings proved to be a test of endurance for both teams. In the 13th inning, Tommy Edman led off with a double for Los Angeles, but despite having runners in scoring position, they were unable to capitalize. Freeman’s fly-out with the bases loaded was particularly frustrating for the Dodgers.
The climax came in the 18th inning when Freeman’s decisive homer sent the fans into a frenzy, sealing a memorable victory for Los Angeles. The win not only highlighted Freeman’s importance to the team but also underscored the Dodgers’ tenacity in a game that will be remembered for its length and intensity.
As the series continues, the Dodgers will look to build on their momentum, aiming for a championship that has eluded them in recent years. The Blue Jays, while facing a setback, remain a formidable opponent, promising more excitement in the games to come.
