Kristina Roberts
It was a night baseball fans will never forget. After nearly seven hours of heart-stopping action, the Los Angeles Dodgers finally defeated the Toronto Blue Jays 6–5 in Game 3 of the 2025 World Series. The game stretched over 18 innings, making it one of the longest and most unforgettable matches in World Series history. What made it even more special was the way it ended — with Freddie Freeman smashing a walk-off home run that sent Dodger Stadium roaring with joy.
Freddie Freeman, one of the Dodgers’ most loved players, became the hero once again. His powerful hit over the right-field fence not only sealed the win but also gave the Dodgers a 2–1 lead in the best-of-seven Fall Classic. Fans jumped to their feet, shouting and cheering as Freeman circled the bases with a smile. It was the kind of moment that reminded everyone why baseball is such a beautiful and emotional game.
The match had everything — strong pitching, nerve-wracking moments, and history-making performances. There were 19 pitchers used in total and an unbelievable 609 pitches thrown. The game lasted 6 hours and 39 minutes — a true test of endurance for both teams and the fans. Everyone knew they were watching something historic, a battle that would be talked about for years.
Freeman’s home run came off Toronto Blue Jays reliever Brendon Little, who had been pitching bravely through the long night. After the game, Freeman described what was going through his mind at that crucial moment. “I was just trying to get on base against a tough lefty, sinker baller with a hard curveball, just trying to get on, but got to a 3-2 count and was able to put a good swing on it,” Freeman said. “My swings were getting better as the game was going on. I thought I had a couple hits in — I don’t know — 21 innings ago.” His words perfectly captured the exhaustion and determination every player felt after such a long game.
This wasn’t Freeman’s first walk-off moment in the World Series. Last year, he had hit a grand slam that became one of the biggest highlights of his career. But this time, the pressure was even higher, and his solo shot carried a deeper meaning. It wasn’t just a win; it was a reminder of his experience, leadership, and coolness under pressure.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts couldn’t hide his emotions after the game. “It’s one of the greatest World Series games of all time,” Roberts said. “Emotional. I’m spent emotionally. We got a ball game later tonight, which is crazy.” His voice showed the tiredness of a long night but also the pride of leading a team that never gave up.
This marathon match tied the record for the longest World Series game ever, a record previously set in 2018 — also by the Dodgers. That game had also gone 18 innings, but this one felt even more meaningful. In 2018, the Dodgers were down 2–0 in the series when they played their marathon game. This time, they were tied 1–1, so every pitch carried more weight. Winning Game 3 meant taking a vital 2–1 lead and shifting momentum toward Los Angeles.
The night was also unforgettable because of Shohei Ohtani, who added another unbelievable chapter to his already historic career. Ohtani reached base nine times during the game — the first player in postseason history ever to do so. He was on base six times early in the game, and then, as the Blue Jays grew more careful, they began to intentionally walk him. The Dodger fans didn’t like it; they wanted to see Ohtani swing. But from Toronto’s point of view, it made sense — Ohtani was simply too dangerous to face directly.
By the 17th inning, the crowd’s energy had turned to a mix of excitement and disbelief. When Ohtani stepped up to bat again, Blue Jays pitcher Brendon Little threw him four straight balls, sending him to base for the ninth time. Only one of those pitches even came close to the strike zone. The fans booed, but they knew they were witnessing something historic. No one had ever done what Ohtani did that night — reach base nine times in one postseason game.
As the game stretched deep into the night, both teams battled with everything they had. Pitchers switched in and out, fielders made diving catches, and every small mistake seemed like it could decide the game. Yet neither team was ready to give in. The Dodgers’ dugout stayed loud and supportive, shouting encouragements with every play. The Blue Jays, despite the disappointment, showed remarkable grit and sportsmanship.
By the time Freeman came to bat in the bottom of the 18th inning, everyone in the stadium was exhausted — players, coaches, fans, even the commentators. The night air was cool, but the tension was burning hot. Freeman walked to the plate, adjusted his helmet, and took a deep breath. On a 3–2 count, he swung — and the ball flew high and far, straight into the right-field stands. The crowd erupted in joy. Fireworks burst above the stadium as his teammates rushed to home plate, waiting to celebrate. Freeman was showered with hugs, high-fives, and cheers. The Dodgers had done it — they had survived one of the longest, toughest games in baseball history.
Moments like this remind fans why baseball is called “America’s pastime.” It’s not just about numbers or records. It’s about passion, patience, and teamwork. Every player on that field gave their all, and every fan in the stands felt every pitch in their heart.
As the stadium slowly emptied, some fans were still in disbelief. They had just witnessed history — not just a victory, but a story of perseverance, teamwork, and pure love for the game. The Dodgers now lead the series 2–1, and Game 4 is scheduled for the next night at Dodger Stadium. The players barely have time to rest, but the excitement is only growing.
Freddie Freeman’s walk-off home run will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in World Series history. It wasn’t just about winning the game — it was about surviving the pressure, staying calm under stress, and giving fans a moment they will never forget.
In baseball, every game tells a story. But this one — with 18 innings, 609 pitches, and one unforgettable swing — felt like a movie that ended perfectly. And at the center of it all stood Freddie Freeman, smiling beneath the bright stadium lights, knowing he had just made history again.
