World Series 2025: Addison Barger, While Mildly Annoyed, Delivers Biggest Swing of His Life as Blue Jays Clobber Dodgers in Game 1

The Build-Up: Barger’s Role as a Spectator

Addison Barger, the 25-year-old third baseman for the Toronto Blue Jays, was not in the starting lineup for Game 1 of the 2025 World Series. Instead, he spent much of his time on the top rail of the home dugout, cheering alongside his teammates as the game unfolded.

However, Barger’s absence from the starting lineup did not diminish his presence. He made use of the time by going to the batting cage beneath the dugout to take swings, knowing that his moment would come eventually. His preparation and patience paid off in a significant way.

The Moment: Barger’s Pinch-Hit Home Run

With the score tied at two in the sixth inning, and the Toronto Blue Jays up 5-2, Barger was called upon to pinch-hit for teammate Schneider. The game’s balance hung in the air as Barger prepared to face left-handed pitcher Anthony Banda.

The pitch that changed everything came when Banda missed his spot by the entire width of the plate, resulting in an elevated and over-the-plate slider that Barger was more than ready for. With the score suddenly shifted to 9-2 in favor of Toronto, the atmosphere at Rogers Centre erupted into a cacophony of cheers and celebrations.

Postgame Reflections: Manager Schneider’s Insight

Manager John Schneider reflected on the pivotal moment postgame. “Never really felt an inning like that in the World Series,” he said. The skipper emphasized Barger’s readiness and plan, noting his build and performance throughout the season.

“He’s built for the moment,” Schneider added, highlighting Barger’s consistent approach at the plate. Teammate Davis Schneider also praised Barger, describing him as a “productive every-day player” who swings with the same intensity and effort every time he steps into the batter’s box.

Behind-the-Scenes: Barger’s Lifestyle During the Series

The World Series often brings unexpected challenges to players, especially those living away from home. For Barger, the situation was compounded by the early October run of his team. He and teammate Schneider shared a hotel room in a one-bathroom suite, with Barger opting for the pull-out couch that squeaked all night.

Off the field, Barger’s authenticity and honesty are highly valued by his teammates.

His raw power and high-effort swing make him a formidable player, as evidenced by his Statcast rankings among league leaders in bat speed. “That’s how he takes his at-bats,” teammate Shane Bieber noted, emphasizing the all-encompassing nature of Barger’s approach to baseball.

Barger’s performance in Game 1 set the tone for the Blue Jays’ early lead and highlighted the importance of every player on a World Series team. His momentary frustration with the delay before his pinch-hit appearance only added to the drama, culminating in one of the most memorable swings of the 2025 World Series.