The Toronto Blue Jays reignited their World Series hopes with a commanding 6-2 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 4, tying the best-of-seven series at 2-2. Backed by Vladimir Guerrero Jr’s early two-run homer and a relentless seventh-inning surge, Canada’s only Major League Baseball (MLB) team delivered a statement win at Dodger Stadium.

The result ensures the World Series will return to Toronto for at least a sixth game — and possibly a decisive seventh — as both teams continue to battle for baseball’s ultimate prize.

Ohtani’s double duty falls short

All eyes were on Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani, who was making headlines not just for his hitting prowess but also for his rare “two-way” role — starting as both pitcher and leadoff hitter. Ohtani, 31, had reached base in all nine plate appearances during Game 3’s marathon 18-inning thriller, but on Tuesday night, he struggled to replicate that magic.

On the mound, Ohtani looked sharp early but faltered in the seventh inning. Having allowed a solo homer to Guerrero Jr. in the third, he exited the game trailing 2-1 after putting two men on base with no outs. Both runners later scored, widening the gap and ending his night with disappointment. Offensively, he went hitless, marking a rare off day for the Japanese sensation.

Blue Jays bounce back with power and poise

Toronto’s lineup, missing veteran outfielder George Springer due to a muscle injury sustained in Game 3, relied on depth and discipline. Guerrero Jr. rose to the occasion with a two-run blast to left-center off Ohtani, flipping the game’s momentum in the third inning. His composure under pressure once again underscored why he remains the heart of the Blue Jays’ offense.

The seventh inning proved decisive. After Ohtani’s exit, Toronto’s hitters pounced on the Dodgers’ bullpen. Andres Gimenez, Ty France, Bo Bichette, and Addison Barger each drove in runs, extending the lead to 6-1. That offensive outburst silenced the home crowd and gave Toronto breathing room heading into the late innings.

Shane Bieber outduels the superstar

While much of the pregame attention centered on Ohtani, Toronto’s starting pitcher Shane Bieber quietly delivered one of the most composed performances of the postseason. The California-born right-hander held his nerve against a potent Dodgers lineup, pitching into the sixth inning and conceding just one run on four hits. Bieber struck out seven, including two punchouts against Ohtani, and showcased excellent command throughout.

Toronto’s bullpen then handled the remainder of the contest efficiently, allowing just one more run in the ninth inning before closing out the win with minimal drama.

Dodgers’ offense sputters

The Dodgers struck first when Enrique Hernandez’s sacrifice fly scored Max Muncy in the second inning. However, their offense stalled afterward, failing to capitalize on multiple opportunities. Despite a late push in the ninth — with Teoscar Hernandez drawing a walk, Muncy doubling, and Tommy Edman driving in a run — the rally was too little, too late.

Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the offensive struggles postgame, saying the team needed to “reset mentally” before Game 5. “We had our chances early, but Bieber kept us off balance. We’ll move forward and be ready tomorrow,” Roberts said.

Momentum shifts north

With the series now level at 2-2, the pressure is mounting on both sides. The Blue Jays have regained momentum and confidence, especially after overcoming the fatigue of Monday’s 18-inning epic. The Dodgers, meanwhile, face questions about bullpen depth and consistency at the plate.

Game 5, scheduled for Wednesday night at Dodger Stadium, will be crucial before the series shifts back to Toronto. The winner will move within one victory of the championship — and both teams know how pivotal that can be.

• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (TOR): 1 HR, 2 RBI, 2 Runs

• Shane Bieber (TOR): 5.2 IP, 7 K, 1 ER

• Shohei Ohtani (LAD): 6 IP, 3 ER, 0 H (at-bats)

• Bo Bichette (TOR): 1 RBI, 1 Run

The Blue Jays’ balanced offense and resilient pitching staff have shifted the tone of the series. If they can carry this momentum into Game 5, the Dodgers’ home-field advantage may not be enough to hold them back.

For Toronto fans, the prospect of the World Series returning home for a potential title-clinching game is a dream scenario — one step closer to the franchise’s first championship since 1993.