The Los Angeles Dodgers finished the job in 2025. For the first time in 25 years, MLB has a repeat champion, as the Dodgers captured back-to-back titles. They did it in improbable fashion, rallying from a 3–2 series deficit and staging a dramatic comeback in Game 7 against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Infielder Miguel Rojas launched a game-tying home run in the ninth inning, and catcher Will Smith delivered the go-ahead blast in the 11th to seal the win. Starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto was the standout star, winning three games in the Fall Classic and pitching 2 2/3 innings of relief in Game 7 to close it out. He was named World Series MVP for his dominant postseason performances.
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Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave RobertsMark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
As the Dodgers celebrate their 2025 World Series title, the team has already begun its offseason with a potential three-peat in sight for 2026. According to MiLB transaction logs, Los Angeles made its first move by releasing right-handed relief pitcher Matt Sauer from the organization.
Sauer did not appear on the postseason roster in any round but did pitch in 10 regular-season games. The 26-year-old struggled, posting a 6.37 ERA while striking out just 24 batters over 29 1/3 innings. He had difficulty limiting hard contact and will now look to sign a professional contract with another club.
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The decision to move on from Sauer is likely the first of many for Los Angeles. Despite winning another championship, the roster still has holes, particularly in the bullpen. The Dodgers leaned heavily on their starting rotation to cover relief innings throughout the playoffs, a strategy they may not want to repeat in 2026. Internal options remain, and left-hander Tanner Scott will look to bounce back next season.
The front office is expected to be aggressive this winter, with bullpen upgrades and outfield depth among the top priorities. With a strong farm system and financial flexibility, the Dodgers remain built to contend for years to come. Much of the core remains under team control, and the organization is well-positioned to make another deep run next year.
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Related: Shohei Ohtani to Make Change After Dodgers’ World Series Game 4 Loss
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 4, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.