The anticipation is palpable as the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers prepare to clash in the World Series, a classic MLB rivalry rekindled for the 13th time. The Yankees find themselves back on baseball’s grandest stage for the first time since 2009, an accomplishment that resonates deeply with fans and players alike.
The journey for the Yankees has been anything but predictable, yet Aaron Boone, the team’s manager, seemed unfazed by their low-key postseason build-up. Reflecting on his team’s persistence, Boone remarked, "It's no surprise," suggesting perhaps that the Yankees were strategically biding their time to peak at just the right moment, as he jested, "Maybe they were just biding their time."
Yankees’ Road to the World Series
The Yankees' path to the World Series saw them emerge victorious over the Kansas City Royals in the American League Division Series (ALDS) and subsequently defeating the Cleveland Guardians in the American League Championship Series (ALCS). Their return to the World Series marks a successful season, highlighted by capturing the AL East division title. Gerrit Cole, heralded as the ace of their pitching staff, has played a pivotal role, bringing a 3.31 postseason ERA and a wealth of experience to Game 1. Cole, who pitched in the 2019 World Series for the Astros, signed a colossal $324 million contract before the 2020 season, underlining his significance to New York’s current endeavors.
Dodgers’ Postseason Dominance
On the opposite side, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue to assert their dominance in the National League, making their fourth World Series appearance since 2017. This year, they conquered the NL West division with a stellar 98-win regular season and overcame the San Diego Padres in the National League Division Series (NLDS), followed by a triumphant series against the New York Mets in the NLCS. With a World Series championship under their belt from 2020, the Dodgers’ manager encapsulates the team’s ambition by stating, "I'm reluctant to ever say World Series or bust, but this was a team put together with rings (note the plural) in mind."
The Dodgers’ Jack Flaherty will take the mound for Game 1, tasked with setting the tone against the Yankees. Despite a challenging NLCS Game 5 where he surrendered eight runs in three innings, Flaherty is looking to turn the tide against a formidable Yankees lineup. Over the postseason, Flaherty has allowed 12 runs in 15 ⅔ innings, a stat under scrutiny as the game looms large.
Game Day: The First Pitch and Beyond
Game 1 will unfold under the bright lights of Dodger Stadium on Friday, Oct. 25 at 8:08 p.m. With neither starting pitcher having faced the opposing team during this year's regular season, both Cole and Flaherty will be venturing into uncharted territory, adding a layer of mystery to the encounter. The odds lean towards the Dodgers with a moneyline of -130, contrasted by the Yankees' +110, and an over/under set at 8.5, indicating a competitive and potentially high-scoring affair.
As the first pitch approaches, the stage is set for a riveting series. Whether the Yankees are ready to reclaim their historical allure or the Dodgers will reinforce their modern-day dynasty remains clouded with anticipation, but one certainty prevails: baseball aficionados worldwide are in for a treat.