Game 3 of the 2025 World Series delivered an instant classic, with Shohei Ohtani‘s breathtaking performance, including multiple home runs and a record nine times reaching base, forcing a historic strategic shift by the Blue Jays and setting the stage for the Los Angeles Dodgers’ epic 18-inning walk-off win.
In a night that felt destined for the baseball history books, Shohei Ohtani delivered one of the most remarkable individual performances in postseason history, powering the Los Angeles Dodgers to an epic 6-5, 18-inning victory over the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 3 of the 2025 World Series. The marathon contest, which tied the record for the longest World Series game at six hours and 39 minutes, was a true testament to Ohtani’s unparalleled talent and his ability to profoundly influence the game, even when opponents actively tried to avoid him.
The Dodgers now hold a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, a significant advantage as they pursue their second consecutive World Series championship, a feat not accomplished since the New York Yankees’ dynasty from 1998-2000.
Ohtani’s Unprecedented Offensive Output
Before the game spiraled into an exhausting extra-innings affair, Ohtani was busy etching his name across multiple record books. His stat line was nothing short of legendary: 4-for-4 at the plate, including two home runs, two doubles, and three RBIs. What happened next only amplified his dominance.
- Nine Times Reaching Base: Ohtani set an MLB playoff record and tied a single-game record by reaching base nine times. This incredible feat matched the likes of baseball legends Stan Hack (1942), Johnny Burnett (1932), and Max Carey (1922).
- Postseason Home Run Record: His two blasts brought his postseason total to eight, tying Corey Seager‘s 2020 franchise record for the most home runs in a single Dodgers postseason. The major league record for postseason homers is 10, set by Randy Arozarena in 2020.
- Dodgers World Series Record for Total Bases: Ohtani accumulated 12 total bases, establishing a new Dodgers franchise record for a World Series game.
- Tying World Series Extra-Base Hit Record: With four extra-base hits in one game, he matched a World Series record that had stood since 1906, set by Frank Isbell of the Chicago White Sox.
- First with Three Multi-Homer Postseason Games: This game marked Ohtani’s third multi-homer performance this postseason, a first in Major League Baseball history for any player in a single postseason.
His impressive offensive surge in this postseason also includes being the first player with multiple games of 12 or more total bases in a single postseason. Only Babe Ruth has achieved two such games in a postseason *career*, underscoring Ohtani’s singular place in baseball history. For more historical context on these feats, you can consult official MLB records via MLB.com.
This stellar performance comes after Ohtani was named MVP of the National League Championship Series, where he hit three home runs and pitched six scoreless innings in the clinching Game 4 against the Milwaukee Brewers.
A Strategic Chess Match: The Intentional Walks
Ohtani’s dominance in the early innings forced Blue Jays manager John Schneider into a difficult, yet strategically sound, decision. After Ohtani’s second homer in the bottom of the seventh tied the score 5-5, Toronto’s approach shifted dramatically. Ohtani was intentionally walked in his next five plate appearances.
This strategic move, while frustrating for fans who craved to see Ohtani swing the bat, was a clear acknowledgment of his unstoppable form. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts articulated this perfectly after the game, stating, “He’s the best player on the planet, and he was on the heels of a huge offensive night. And [Blue Jays manager John Schneider] smelled that and wasn’t going to let Shohei beat him at all.”
In total, Ohtani drew five walks, four of them intentional, making him the first player in a World Series game and only the tenth in MLB history to be intentionally walked four times. This radical strategy led to a cascade of groans and boos from the Dodger Stadium crowd, but it kept Ohtani from inflicting further damage.
Beyond Ohtani: The Epic 18-Inning Marathon
While Ohtani’s performance set the tone, the game itself developed into an epic struggle that tested the limits of both teams. Clocking in at 6 hours and 39 minutes, it was an 18-inning saga that matched the longest World Series game ever played. A staggering 19 pitchers took the mound, throwing 609 pitches, and setting a new World Series record with 153 batters coming to the plate.
Both teams repeatedly left runners stranded, with Toronto leaving 19 on base and Los Angeles 18, totaling an astounding 37 runners left on base, which is another playoff record. Despite the Blue Jays’ efforts to contain Ohtani, they struggled to capitalize on their own opportunities, finishing 2-for-12 with runners in scoring position.
The game finally concluded in the bottom of the 18th inning when Freddie Freeman launched a walk-off solo home run, a 406-foot shot off Brendon Little. This dramatic end capped a night of high-stakes baseball and individual brilliance, pushing the Dodgers closer to another World Series title. For more historical records of the World Series, fans can refer to Baseball-Reference.com.
Looking Ahead: Game 4 and World Series Implications
The absurdity of Game 3 extends into Game 4, as Ohtani, after his monstrous offensive display, is scheduled to start on the mound for the Dodgers on Tuesday night. This “double-duty” scenario, where Ohtani will transition from a record-breaking offensive force to a starting pitcher with less than 18 hours rest, highlights his unique value to the team and his relentless commitment.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, acknowledging Ohtani’s exhaustion and excitement, confirmed, “He’s spent. He’s elated. But, yeah, he’s taking the mound tomorrow. He’ll be ready.” For fans, this further solidifies Ohtani’s legendary status, with social media buzzing with reactions like “He’s the best player ever,” “He’s just unbelievable!” and humorous takes such as “Ohtani ain’t real. That man’s the first AI robot walking among us and nobody’s caught on yet.”
As the Dodgers aim for a repeat championship, Ohtani’s performance in Game 3 solidifies his legacy beyond his already impressive regular season where he hit a single-season franchise record 63 combined home runs. His 2024 World Series win was a team effort, but Game 3 of 2025 felt like a defining moment for the superstar, a testament to his unique ability to captivate and dominate on the grandest stage.
