Who is Will Klein? Meet the Dodgers Newcomer Who Impressed in World Series Game 3 Against Blue Jays

Will Klein, a young Los Angeles Dodgers reliever, delivered one of the most impressive performances of his career during Game 3 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays.

In a grueling 18-inning showdown at Dodger Stadium, Klein stepped up when the team needed him most. Despite never pitching more than two innings in a game before, the 25-year-old tossed over three innings of crucial relief, helping keep the Dodgers alive until Freddie Freeman’s walk-off home run sealed a 6–5 victory.

Who Is Will Klein?

Will Klein is a 25-year-old relief pitcher who joined the Los Angeles Dodgers roster ahead of the 2025 World Series. Originally from Bloomington, Illinois, Klein played college baseball at Eastern Illinois University before being selected in the fifth round of the 2020 MLB Draft by the Kansas City Royals.

Known for his fastball velocity and strikeout ability, Klein quickly gained attention in the minor leagues and was chosen for the 2023 MLB All-Star Futures Game, which features baseball’s top prospects.

His Road to the Dodgers

Klein’s professional journey has been quite eventful. After beginning his career with the Kansas City Royals, he was traded to the Oakland Athletics in July 2024 in exchange for pitcher Lucas Erceg.

During his time with Oakland, Klein appeared in only three MLB games before being traded again — this time to the Seattle Mariners in January 2025. However, his stint there was short-lived, as he was designated for assignment just four months later.

The Dodgers acquired Klein in June 2025, and since then, he has found his rhythm, posting excellent numbers out of the bullpen.

Will Klein’s 2025 Stats

• Appearances: 14

• Record: 1–1

• Innings Pitched: 15.1

• ERA: 2.35

• Strikeouts: 21

• Walks: 10

• Hits Allowed: 14

• Earned Runs: 4

These stats showcase his steady progress and effectiveness since joining Los Angeles.

Klein’s Impact in Game 3

During the Dodgers’ marathon win over the Blue Jays, Klein showcased composure and endurance far beyond his experience level. Facing elite hitters deep into the game, he managed to limit Toronto’s offense and give the Dodgers’ lineup a chance to fight back.

Manager Dave Roberts praised his poise and stamina, noting that his performance was “a huge part of keeping us in the game.”

What’s Next for Will Klein

Klein’s breakout performance on the World Series stage has made him a name to watch in the Dodgers’ bullpen moving forward. His journey — from a mid-round draft pick to a World Series contributor — highlights his resilience and determination to succeed in the majors.

As the World Series continues, Dodgers fans are hopeful Klein can continue his momentum and help bring another championship to Los Angeles.