In an unforgettable 18-inning World Series Game 3, while stars like Freddie Freeman and Shohei Ohtani etched their names in history, it was the unexpected brilliance of several unsung heroes from both the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays that truly captivated fans and shaped the longest game of the Fall Classic.
The 2025 World Series Game 3 between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays will be remembered as an instant classic, a marathon 18-inning battle that tested the limits of both teams. While the headlines rightfully celebrated Freddie Freeman’s walk-off homer and Shohei Ohtani’s record-breaking offensive performance, the true depth of this epic 6-5 Dodgers victory lay in the contributions of several lesser-known players and even the managerial acumen that guided the game to its dramatic conclusion.
The Unsung Saviors on the Mound
In a game that saw a record 19 pitchers combine for 609 pitches, the bullpen became the battleground. Among the Dodgers’ pitching staff, two relievers emerged from the shadows to deliver critical, high-leverage innings, defying earlier expectations.
Edgardo Henriquez: From Doubted to Dominant
Just months before, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had expressed skepticism about leaning heavily on rookie pitchers like Edgardo Henriquez, noting his limited major league experience. Roberts had stated, “I live in a world of, what’s the alternative? I just don’t feel that Edgardo Henriquez, for example, throwing 10 major-league innings, is now the savior,” as reported by Yahoo Sports. Yet, when necessity called in the 13th inning of Game 3, Henriquez answered.
He was, in every sense, a savior. Henriquez blasted through two spotless innings, not yielding a single hit or walk. His fastball consistently clocked between 100 and 101.8 mph, the hardest pitches thrown all night, neutralizing threats like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Ernie Clement, and Andrés Giménez. His performance was paramount in keeping the Dodgers in the game.
Will Klein: The Closer Who Wasn’t Supposed to Be
Following Henriquez’s stellar relief, rookie pitcher Will Klein took the mound and delivered four critical shutout innings, recording five strikeouts to ultimately close out the marathon game. His composure under immense pressure, especially for a rookie, was instrumental in securing the Dodgers’ victory, making him another unexpected hero of this historic contest.
Defensive Gems That Turned the Tide
Beyond the pitching, crucial defensive plays by players on both sides highlighted the intensity of Game 3, preventing runs and altering momentum.
Addison Barger’s Cannon Arm
For the Blue Jays, right fielder Addison Barger made a play in the third inning that kept his team in the game. With the Dodgers threatening to extend their 2-0 lead, Will Smith hit a single into medium deep right field. Barger, virtually flat-footed, unleashed a 98.5 mph throw to home plate, perfectly nailing Freddie Freeman who was attempting to score from second. This powerful and precise throw prevented further damage and gave the Blue Jays a fighting chance, even before Alejandro Kirk’s temporary game-turning home run.
Will Smith’s Marathon Behind the Plate
Dodgers catcher Will Smith endured all 18 innings, skillfully managing 10 different pitchers. His stamina and defensive prowess were crucial. Notably, in the 10th inning, he made a pivotal tag out at home plate on pinch-runner Davis Schneider. Replays confirmed Smith left a legal lane, upholding the out call and preserving the Dodgers’ chances. He even came agonizingly close to ending the game himself in the 14th inning, with a 383-foot drive that died at the fence, likely a victim of the marine layer at Dodger Stadium.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s Defensive Instincts
Even without a hit in nine at-bats, Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. showcased his underappreciated baseball IQ. In the sixth inning, with the game tied 4-4, he made a magnificent play to throw out Teoscar Hernández at third base. Seeing Hernández sprinting on a chopped ball to short, Guerrero came off the first base bag, fielded the throw from Andrés Giménez, and fired a laser to third, completing a pivotal out. It was a testament to his instincts and ability, even when his bat was quiet.
Managerial Mastery in a Marathon
Guiding a team through an 18-inning postseason game requires exceptional leadership, and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts delivered a masterpiece. His strategic decisions regarding pitching changes were crucial, from knowing when to pull starter Tyler Glasnow after 13 outs to sticking with longer options like Emmet Sheehan, Justin Wrobleski, Edgardo Henriquez, and Will Klein. Roberts’ ability to navigate a depleted bullpen, coupled with the pressure of managing a high-expectations team that had also endured the “devastating departure of top lefty reliever Alex Vesia,” as reported by USA Today Sports, highlights his painted masterpiece in Game 3.
Game 3’s Place in History: Record-Breaking Moments
Beyond the individual heroes, World Series Game 3 produced an array of record-breaking statistics that underscore its legendary status. The game was an “instant classic,” as described by Yahoo Sports, for many reasons:
- Freddie Freeman’s walk-off home run was his third career walk-off postseason hit, tying the MLB record held by David Ortiz and Carlos Correa.
- Shohei Ohtani had an unprecedented offensive performance, reaching base nine times, a new all-time postseason record. This included two home runs, two doubles, and a postseason record four intentional walks.
- There were 130 combined at-bats, shattering the previous World Series record of 118 set in 2018.
- The Blue Jays left a staggering 19 runners on base, a new World Series record for missed opportunities.
- A total of 44 players participated in the game, featuring a record 19 pitchers who threw a combined 609 pitches.
The Enduring Legacy of an Epic Game
While the World Series often spotlights its biggest stars, Game 3 of the 2025 Fall Classic showcased the collective spirit and the crucial contributions from every corner of the roster. From unexpected pitching heroes like Edgardo Henriquez and Will Klein to defensive stalwarts like Addison Barger, Will Smith, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and the strategic guidance of Dave Roberts, this 18-inning epic was a testament to the depth of talent and resolve present in both the Dodgers and Blue Jays. It was a game where the under-the-radar performances truly shined, solidifying its place as one of the most memorable contests in World Series history.
