Many supporters of the Toronto Blue Jays endured a sleepless night following Game 3 of the World Series, which turned out to be a disappointing experience. As Freddie Freeman’s 18th inning hit cleared the centre field wall at Dodger Stadium, giving Los Angeles a 2-1 series lead, it was almost midnight in California. However, in Toronto, where over 27,000 fans gathered at the Rogers Centre to watch the game on the video scoreboard, dedicated fans had to stay up until nearly 3 a.m. ET to witness the heartbreaking conclusion.
Attendance at the dome gradually decreased as the game extended into extra innings, with fans debating whether to catch the last GO Train or increase their babysitting expenses. Those who persevered until the end witnessed one of the longest and most intense World Series games ever played, involving 18 innings, multiple dramatic plays, outstanding pitching performances, and over six hours of emotionally draining action.
Although the game was deemed an instant classic, the remaining fans at the Rogers Centre watch party found it challenging to fully appreciate the spectacle as it concluded. Describing the experience as “pretty brutal,” one Jays fan expressed disappointment after Freeman’s game-winning hit.
Tickets for the Rogers Centre watch parties were priced at $15, offering fans a more affordable option compared to attending games in person. Despite the late-night drama, fans like Noah Cappon highlighted the high energy and camaraderie among those who stayed until the end.
While some questioned the wisdom of staying up late to watch the game, others like Adam Yang and Cristian Gonzalez found the atmosphere at the Rogers Centre electrifying, likening it to attending two baseball games in one night. The two lifelong Blue Jays supporters stayed until the final out, appreciating the unique experience despite the outcome.
Following the tied score in the seventh inning, both teams remained deadlocked until Freeman’s game-ending home run in the 18th inning. With Game 4 set to take place at Dodger Stadium on Tuesday evening, fans, players, and coaches will need to regroup and prepare for the next matchup.
Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani expressed his desire to rest and prepare for the upcoming game, emphasizing the importance of getting adequate sleep before facing off in Game 4.
