The 2025 World Series opens on Friday night at Rogers Centre, where the Los Angeles Dodgers begin their defence against a Blue Jays side making their first Fall Classic appearance in 32 years.
This matchup pits baseball’s most expensive roster against one of the most improbable playoff runs in recent memory, headlined by rookie pitcher Trey Yesavage.
Read on for our best bets, odds, analysis, and game information.
Expert Pick: Dodgers to Win (1/2)
The Dodgers hold every advantage: experience, rest, and a starting pitcher who has been virtually unhittable this postseason. Blake Snell’s dominance makes the Dodgers the smart play here at 1/2.
Game Overview
| Game Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Teams | Los Angeles Dodgers at Toronto Blue Jays |
| Date | Friday, 24th October 2025 |
| First Pitch | 1:00 AM BST |
| Venue | Rogers Centre, Toronto |
| Starting Pitchers | Blake Snell (2.35 ERA) vs. Trey Yesavage (Rookie) |
The Pitching Matchup
Blake Snell enters Game 1 as one of the most dominant postseason pitchers in recent memory, posting a 0.86 ERA with 28 strikeouts in 21 playoff innings. His NLCS Game 1 performance against Milwaukee was a masterclass: eight scoreless frames, 10 strikeouts, and only one hit allowed.
Trey Yesavage, a 24-year-old rookie who made just three regular-season starts, has become Toronto’s postseason hero. His playoff debut against the Yankees was legendary: 5.1 hitless innings with 11 strikeouts at Yankee Stadium. However, he now faces a Dodgers offence that posted the third-lowest chase rate in baseball.
Offensive Firepower
The Dodgers averaged 5.09 runs per game during the regular season, powered by Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Max Muncy. Toronto’s offence has been equally terrifying thanks to Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s historic tear, slashing .442/.510/.930 with six home runs in 11 playoff games.
| Offensive Stat | Dodgers | Blue Jays |
|---|---|---|
| Runs Per Game | 5.09 | 4.75 |
| Team Batting Average | .265 | .260 |
| Home Runs | 245 | 228 |
Expect the Dodgers to pitch around Guerrero, forcing Toronto’s supporting cast of Alejandro Kirk, Daulton Varsho, and Ernie Clement to beat them.
Betting Odds and Analysis
- To Win Game: Dodgers 1/2 / Blue Jays 5/4
- Handicap: Dodgers -1.5 (11/10) / Blue Jays +1.5 (4/11)
- Total Runs: 7.5 (Over 21/20 / Under 4/5)
The Under is drawing heavy action at 4/5 given Snell’s postseason form. The Dodgers swept Milwaukee in four games, giving them five full days of rest, whilst Toronto just survived a gruelling seven-game war with Seattle. Well-rested sides have won 62% of Game 1s over the past 20 years when facing an opponent coming off a seven-game series.
Prediction and Best Bets
- Final Score Prediction – Dodgers 5, Blue Jays 2
- Dodgers to Win (1/2) – Snell’s dominance combined with the Dodgers’ offensive firepower makes this the sharpest bet available.
- Under 7.5 Runs (4/5) – Both starters have been exceptional, and Game 1 nerves typically lead to tighter play.
- Blake Snell Over 7.5 Strikeouts (10/11) – Snell has averaged 9.3 strikeouts per nine innings this postseason against a Blue Jays side that struck out 1,487 times during the regular season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is favoured to win Game 1 of the World Series?
The Los Angeles Dodgers are favoured at 1/2, implying a 60% win probability. Their combination of elite pitching, offensive depth, and championship experience makes them the clear favourite.
Should I back Trey Yesavage to continue his playoff magic?
Whilst Yesavage has been sensational, he’s facing a completely different challenge against the Dodgers. Los Angeles won’t expand the zone like previous opponents. Blue Jays at 5/4 offers value if you believe in the rookie, but it’s a risky play.
What’s the best bet for Game 1?
The Dodgers to win at 1/2 offers the best combination of value and probability. If you want a higher payout, consider the Under 7.5 runs at 4/5.
Where can I bet on the World Series in the UK?
We recommend using established UK bookmakers such as Bet365, William Hill, or Paddy Power for comprehensive MLB markets and competitive odds.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Please gamble responsibly and only wager what you can afford to lose. All odds are subject to change. Must be 18+ to bet. When the fun stops, stop.