The 2024 World Series kicks off with a blockbuster showdown between two of baseball’s most iconic franchises: the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Game 1 will take place at Dodger Stadium, setting the stage for an epic seven-game series. Both teams boast star-studded rosters, making this matchup a dream scenario for baseball fans everywhere.
This World Series also features two MVP-caliber players, as Yankees slugger Aaron Judge goes head-to-head with the Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani. The two superstars combined for 112 home runs during the regular season and remain pivotal in their teams’ postseason success. Each squad brings a long history of success, with the Yankees owning 27 titles and the Dodgers seeking their second championship in the past decade.
New York Yankees Overview
After playoff victories over the Kansas City Royals and Cleveland Guardians, the Yankees arrive in Los Angeles with momentum. They’ll send ace Gerrit Cole to the mound for Game 1. Cole returned from an elbow injury this season, posting an 8-5 record with a 3.41 ERA in the regular season. He’s been steady in the playoffs, sporting a 3.31 ERA over three starts, including a solid outing in the ALCS against the Guardians.
Aaron Judge, who missed time last season with a toe injury, has been on fire during the playoffs. Backed by Giancarlo Stanton and Juan Soto, Judge will look to power the Yankees to a Game 1 victory. Soto has been clutch, hitting 41 homers during the season and delivering the decisive home run in the ALCS. If the Yankees can generate consistent offense behind their big bats, they have a solid chance to strike first in the series.
Los Angeles Dodgers Overview
The Dodgers, led by superstar Shohei Ohtani, aim to reclaim the World Series crown for the first time since their shortened 2020 championship season. Ohtani’s remarkable campaign included 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases, cementing his status as one of the game’s most versatile players. He’ll be backed by Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith as the Dodgers lean on their powerful lineup to take control early in the series.
Starting for Los Angeles will be Jack Flaherty, who was acquired midseason and made an immediate impact. Flaherty posted a 6-2 record with a 3.58 ERA following his arrival from Detroit. However, his postseason performances have been inconsistent, highlighted by a seven-inning gem against the Mets but followed by a rough outing in Game 5 of the NLCS. He’ll need to regain his form to keep the Yankees’ potent offense in check.
Prediction and Pick
With both teams entering the series in top form, Game 1 promises to be a thrilling contest. The Yankees will lean on Cole’s experience, while the Dodgers will hope Flaherty can rise to the occasion. The matchup between Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani will be one of the defining narratives throughout the series.
- Pick: Los Angeles Dodgers -1.5 (+165)
- Prediction: Dodgers 5, Yankees 3
Look for the Dodgers to capitalize on their home-field advantage in Game 1, with Ohtani and Betts setting the tone at the top of the lineup. The Yankees will make it a close contest, but Los Angeles should come out on top to take an early series lead.
