Will Klein Becomes Unlikely Hero in Dodgers' World Series Marathon Win

The Dodgers’ victory in Game 3 was a marathon, lasting nearly seven hours and tying the longest game in World Series history. Klein, who had not appeared in any of the Dodgers’ first three postseason rounds and had only thrown 15.1 regular-season innings, was called upon to pitch deep into extras.

The second-year reliever delivered four scoreless innings, allowing just one hit, two walks, and striking out five. His performance helped the Dodgers hold on until Freddie Freeman’s walk-off home run in the 18th inning sealed the 6-5 win.

Following his impressive outing, Klein received an overwhelming amount of praise, including more than 500 text messages from friends, family, and even t-ball coaches. Despite the intense physical toll of the game, Klein’s focus remained on the team’s success, emphasizing that he would be ready to pitch again if needed in Game 4, though he jokingly hoped to avoid additional innings. Klein’s unexpected heroics made him one of the most memorable figures in the series, showcasing his resilience and composure under pressure.

As the Dodgers prepare for Game 4, Klein’s performance has become a symbol of the team’s depth and determination. While the team has other established stars like Freddie Freeman and Shohei Ohtani, it’s Klein’s unlikely contribution that has captured the attention of fans and teammates alike, reinforcing the importance of every player stepping up in the postseason.

1. Klein’s Unlikely Heroics in the Marathon Game

Will Klein’s four-inning shutout performance in Game 3 was one of the most remarkable pitching feats of the 2025 World Series. Entering the game in extras with the Dodgers and Blue Jays locked in an 18-inning marathon, Klein was tasked with keeping his team alive. Despite his limited experience in the postseason, the second-year reliever delivered with poise, holding the Blue Jays scoreless over 72 pitches. His outing came at a crucial moment for the Dodgers, who had already exhausted much of their bullpen. Klein’s resilience and focus allowed the team to stay in the game long enough for Freddie Freeman to eventually deliver the walk-off home run that clinched the victory. Klein’s performance stood out not just because of the innings he logged, but also the way he approached the task. He spoke after the game with the confidence of a veteran, determined to contribute to his team’s success, saying, “We weren’t losing that game. I was going to keep doing that — and doing all I could to put up a zero and sit back down and do it again.” This mentality of selfless dedication to the team’s cause was evident throughout Klein’s outing. His ability to stay focused and perform under the intense pressure of a World Series game that stretched over seven hours spoke volumes about his character. Klein’s success wasn’t just about throwing strikes but about his resolve to keep the game in reach until the Dodgers could seal the win. The night was a personal triumph for Klein, who never imagined being in such a critical position. His reflection on the experience—sharing the moment with stars like Clayton Kershaw, Mookie Betts, and Shohei Ohtani—revealed how much the accomplishment meant to him. It was an unforgettable experience for a player who, just months ago, was trying to prove himself in the regular season.

2. A Marathon Game That Tested Both Teams

Game 3 of the World Series was not just a test of individual endurance but a test of team depth. Both the Dodgers and Blue Jays had to dig deep into their bullpen as the game dragged on for an unprecedented 18 innings. The Dodgers used 10 pitchers, while the Blue Jays called on 9, highlighting the exhaustion both teams faced as they fought for every inch. Despite Klein’s standout performance, the game was a battle for every pitcher involved. The Dodgers were on the verge of calling in Yoshinobu Yamamoto to pitch the 19th inning, but Freeman’s walk-off hit spared the team from taking that step. For both teams, the marathon game pushed their pitching staffs to the brink, with every reliever forced to make critical decisions under fatigue. The fact that Klein was able to provide such valuable innings, outlasting nearly every other pitcher on both teams, underscored the significance of his contribution. The ability to stay calm and focused while others faltered made Klein’s performance even more impressive. By the time the game finally ended, it was clear that both teams had given everything they had, but the Dodgers’ bullpen depth and Klein’s heroics had made the difference. This World Series contest will be remembered not just for the walk-off victory but for the sheer physical and mental endurance required from all players. Klein’s role in the outcome may have been unexpected, but it was a perfect example of how crucial every member of a team can be, especially in high-stakes situations.

3. Klein’s Rise from Underdog to Hero

Will Klein’s unexpected role in Game 3 of the World Series further solidified his place in Dodgers lore, even though he wasn’t a known name entering the postseason. His journey to this moment is a testament to the unpredictable nature of baseball and the opportunities that can arise for players who remain ready when their number is called. Though Klein had limited postseason experience and pitched just 15.1 innings during the regular season, his performance in Game 3 demonstrated why baseball’s postseason is a time for unlikely heroes to emerge. His success was not simply the result of talent but of his preparedness and ability to perform under immense pressure. Klein’s rise from an untested reliever to a key contributor in one of the longest games in World Series history serves as a reminder that anything can happen in October. As Klein prepares for the possibility of more postseason action, his performance has earned the respect of both his teammates and the Dodgers’ fanbase. His ability to stay composed and deliver in such a high-stress situation has already made him a favorite in Los Angeles, and his journey could serve as an inspiration to other players looking to make their mark in the postseason. With Game 4 of the World Series just hours away, Klein’s place in the Dodgers’ playoff story is secure—regardless of whether he takes the mound again. His heroics in Game 3 will remain a defining moment for the team, and his impact on the series will be felt long after the final pitch is thrown.