The World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays is tied 1-1 in a best-of-seven series. The Dodgers would be the first team to win consecutive championships since the New York Yankees won three from 1998-2000.

There are several Minnesotans and former Minnesota Twins players to watch for, including two players who were let go as part of the teams fire sale in July.

MPR News sports contributors Wally Langfellow and Eric Nelson joined Minnesota Now host Nina Moini with who to watch.

Louis Varland

Louis Varland is the relief pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays. He went to North St. Paul High School and Concordia University in St. Paul. He played for the Minnesota Twins for three-and-a-half seasons before the Twins made their roster shake up earlier this year.

Ty France

Ty France is a first baseman for the Toronto Blue Jays. He played for the Minnesota Twins for half of the 2025 season before the big trade as well. France had been injured since Sept. 23, but was activated for the World Series roster last week.

Alex Call

Alex Call is an outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Call was born in Burnsville and went to River Falls High School in Wisconsin. He was traded to the Dodgers from the Washington Nationals at the trade deadline in 2025.

David Popkins

David Popkins is the Blue Jay’s hitting coach. He was in the same role for the Minnesota Twins for three season, but the team did not bring him back in 2025. It’s unclear why they parted ways. The Blue Jays are one of the top offensive teams in the league.

Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation along with more sports headlines.