What happened: World Series Game 1 starter Jacob Misiorowski brings elite velocity to the mound at home as the 2026 Fall Classic opens Friday. Opposing lineups must balance bunt and hit-and-run execution against high-velocity pitching designed to generate strikeouts.

Why it matters: Series featuring small-market, low-payroll rosters often turn on manufactured runs when premier starters limit extra-base hits. Extending at-bats and pressuring the defense on the basepaths can drive up a power pitcher's workload before the middle innings.

What to watch: Early-inning baserunner traffic in the series opener will dictate how quickly bullpen arms enter the game.