It’s been a storybook rise for Pottstown’s Trey Yesavage, who just became the youngest pitcher in more than seven decades to start Game 1 of the World Series, writes Maddy Dickens for Sports Illustrated.
The 22-year-old Blue Jays rookie took the mound against the reigning champion Los Angeles Dodgers, striking out Shohei Ohtani to open the game and helping Toronto to an 11-4 victory.
Yesavage’s journey from local standout to MLB postseason hero has been lightning fast. Just six months ago, he was making his minor-league debut before 300 fans. Now, he’s pitching on baseball’s biggest stage, joining rare company as the youngest Game 1 starter since Brooklyn’s Ralph Branca in 1947.
The Blue Jays’ top prospect held his own against one of baseball’s most dangerous lineups. Over four innings, Yesavage allowed just two earned runs on four hits, notching five strikeouts—including two against All-Stars Ohtani and Max Muncy. His poise under pressure impressed both fans and manager John Schneider, who called him “the future of our rotation.”
As Toronto looks to take a 2-1 series lead Monday night, Montco fans will be watching closely, cheering for the local phenom who brought a bit of Pottstown pride to the Fall Classic.
To learn more about Pottstown’s Yesavage and his meteoric rookie season, visit Sports Illustrated.
