Blue Jays: Trey Yesavage named Game 1 starter

There may never be another season like Yesavage’s in MLB history. Drafted 20th overall in the 2024 draft, Yesavage didn’t make his professional debut until the 2025 season, beginning the season in Single-A.

After climbing the minor league ladder, Yesavage was called up to the Blue Jays toward the end of the regular season, making three starts toward the end of the season. He was good enough that he wasn’t just added to the playoff roster, but named as the Blue Jays’ Game 2 starter in the American League Divisional Series.

It was a historic debut for the 22-year-old, as he struck out 11 New York Yankees in five and one-third no-hit innings. His second start, which came against the Seattle Mariners in Game 2 of the American League Championship Series, didn’t go as well, but when the Jays needed him most, he performed well in his next start.

With their backs against the wall in Game 6 of the ALCS, the Jays turned to the rookie. Although he ran into a lot of traffic, Yesavage was able to give the Blue Jays five and two-thirds innings, giving up just two earned runs and striking out seven. The Jays ended up winning that game, as well as Game 7, to earn their third trip to the World Series.

Now, the 22-year-old with just six MLB starts under his belt, will serve as the Blue Jays’ Game 1 starter on the biggest stage of them all. On the Dodgers side of things, they’ll start two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell for Game 1.

Using Yesavage in this spot will give Kevin Gausman an additional day to rest. His last start was Game 5 of the ALCS on Friday, but he appeared in Monday’s game in an inning of relief.