Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Blue Jays' Addison Barger Makes History During World Series Game 1 Against Dodgers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Oct 24, 2025 11:17 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers entered Game 1 of the 2025 World Series looking to defend their crown, while the Toronto Blue Jays were making their first Fall Classic appearance in 31 years. The defending champions struck first, building an early two-run lead, but Toronto’s offense came alive midway through the game.

Daulton Varsho tied things up in the fourth inning with a two-run homer, igniting a rally that completely shifted the game’s momentum. By the sixth inning, the Blue Jays were firing on all cylinders, capitalizing on Los Angeles’ pitching struggles. And while several players contributed to the comeback, it was Addison Barger who delivered what might be the defining moment of Game 1, one that will go down in World Series history.

Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Addison Barger (47).Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

In the bottom of the sixth, with the bases loaded and the Blue Jays already ahead, Barger stepped in as a pinch-hitter and launched a grand slam—becoming the first player in World Series history to hit a pinch-hit grand slam.

The Blue Jays’ official account confirmed the feat moments later, celebrating Barger’s heroics that extended Toronto’s lead to 9-2.

“MAJOR LEAGUE HISTORY FOR ADDISON BARGER! #WANTITALL”

MAJOR LEAGUE HISTORY FOR ADDISON BARGER! #WANTITALL pic.twitter.com/HCWMuORPVN
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) October 25, 2025

Barger entered the game hitting .286 with 10 hits, two home runs, four RBIs and four runs in the MLB postseason.

Meanwhile, Dodgers starter Blake Snell—who had been stellar throughout the playoffs—endured one of his toughest outings in recent memory. The veteran left-hander allowed five earned runs before being pulled in the sixth, struggling to find command against a relentless Blue Jays lineup.

Toronto’s nine-run sixth inning stands as one of the most explosive frames in World Series history and gave the team an early edge in the series. The Blue Jays will now look to keep that momentum as the series progresses, hoping to build on their offensive breakthrough and capture their first championship since 1993.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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