The World Series is set to captivate baseball fans with a thrilling matchup featuring heavy hitters and historic rivalries, marking a monumental occasion as the championship becomes a truly international affair for the first time in over thirty years. This year, the Los Angeles Dodgers, backed by their star lineup, including Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Mookie Betts, face off against the underdog Toronto Blue Jays, who seek to clinch their first title since 1992.
As anticipation builds, several questions linger: Can rising star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. continue his streak of home runs against top pitchers? What changes will be implemented in broadcasting given the unique international context? In a landscape ripe with potential pop culture references, will the music rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake feature in the celebratory atmosphere of this series?
The schedule for the 2025 World Series has been confirmed, with all games starting at 8 p.m. EST. American viewers can catch the action exclusively on Fox, the network with rights to the Fall Classic since 2000, while Canadian fans will tune in via Sportsnet, located conveniently near the venue for Game 1, the Rogers Centre.
Commentary for the series will be led by powerful voices in baseball broadcasting. Joe Davis, who took over from Joe Buck in 2022, will provide play-by-play for Fox, bringing his energetic style and familiarity with the Dodgers to the forefront. Joining him in the booth is Hall of Famer John Smoltz, whose extensive knowledge adds depth to the commentary.
On the Sportsnet side, Dan Shulman will handle play-by-play duties, leveraging his long-standing relationship with the Blue Jays, alongside former player and manager Buck Martinez. Additionally, viewers can expect in-depth analysis from field reporters Tom Verducci and Ken Rosenthal, as well as expansive pregame coverage featuring baseball legends Derek Jeter, David Ortiz, and Alex Rodriguez.
The hype surrounding this year’s World Series is amplified by the potential cultural crossover between baseball and the music scene, particularly with the hometown connections of Lamar and Drake. The producers will have the challenging task of striking a balance between traditional sports presentation and modern cultural relevance.
As both teams prepare for this championship battle, the excitement surrounding the World Series reflects the enduring spirit of baseball, making it not just a competition but a celebration of sportsmanship and community on a grand stage. The stage is set for an unforgettable series filled with historic moments and passionate fan engagement.