Previewing the World Series matchup between the Toronto Blue Jays and reigning champ LA Dodgers

The GIST: East Coast vs. West Coast, Canada’s team vs. the reigning champs of America’s pastime, David vs. Goliath — there are so many ways to bill the best-of-seven World Series matchup between the American League champion Toronto Blue Jays and National League–winning LA Dodgers, which begins from Toronto tonight at 8 p.m. ET.

• Will we have our first back-to-back World Series champs since 2000? Can the Jays take it all for the first time since 1993? And can anyone catch The GIST’s very own Melissa in our bracket challenge? Can’t wait to find out.

🐦 Jays’ resilience on display: Toronto overcame a 2-0 series deficit and two-run Game 7 hole against the Seattle Mariners to reach the sport’s biggest stage. Outfielder George Springer blasted the home run heard ’round the Great White North on Monday, while Canada’s own Vladimir Guerrero Jr. continues to deliver, boasting a postseason-best 12 RBI. Born for this.

💙 Dodgers well-rested after dominant sweep: It’s been a full week since LA ousted the Milwaukee Brewers in just four games, giving the Blue Crew time to line up their lights-out pitching staff for the series ahead. No matter how much time passes, expect two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani to pick up right where he left off after a historic NLCS showing.

⏩ Toronto rookie Trey Yesavage to face LA veteran Blake Snell in Game 1: From beginning the season in the low minors to World Series starter, 22-year-old Yesavage will look to continue his strong postseason debut. Meanwhile, the Dodgers will send out their two-time Cy Young winner, the southpaw with a remarkable 0.86 ERA these playoffs. Play ball, baby.