Blue Jays' Addison Barger Hits First Ever World Series Pinch-Hit Grand Slam in Game 1 Victory

Addison Barger made history in Game 1 of the 2025 World Series by hitting the first pinch-hit grand slam in World Series history, leading the Toronto Blue Jays to an 11-4 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. Entering the game in the sixth inning with the bases loaded, Barger launched a 413-foot home run off Dodgers reliever Anthony Banda, turning the game into a blowout and electrifying the Rogers Centre crowd. The Dodgers, favored to win, saw their bullpen collapse in the sixth inning, allowing nine runs that shifted momentum decisively in Toronto's favor. Blue Jays rookie right-hander Trey Yesavage pitched effectively early on, while Dodgers starter Blake Snell struggled with command, culminating in a rough outing that included a two-run homer allowed to Daulton Varsho. Barger's performance, slashing .324/.405/.622 in the postseason and powering Toronto's first World Series game in 32 years, was widely celebrated by fans and marked a significant upset against the defending champions. The victory was highlighted by Barger’s humble personality, including his wearing a free minor league T-shirt and sleeping on a teammate’s couch the night before the game.