As the 2024 World Series approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating what could be a classic showdown between two of baseball’s most iconic teams—the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Both clubs have storied histories, powerhouse lineups, and significant fan bases, making this matchup a true Fall Classic.
The Yankees and Dodgers boast several superstar players, including Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Gerrit Cole, Mookie Betts, and Juan Soto. But as the saying goes, “baseball is a team game,” and while these marquee names will be central to the storyline, it’s often the unheralded players who will decide the outcome of the series. As these two juggernauts square off for the 12th time in World Series history, here’s a closer look at the key players to watch on both sides.
Key Players to Watch
New York Yankees:
1. Aaron Judge (RF) Aaron Judge is the face of the Yankees and one of the most dominant players in Major League Baseball. He was instrumental in the Yankees’ success this season, leading the team with 58 home runs and an incredible .316 batting average during the regular season. Judge’s blend of power and plate discipline makes him a threat in any at-bat.
- Key Stats: Judge’s power is undeniable, but it’s his approach in key situations that could define the series. His ability to work deep counts, wear down pitchers, and then unleash towering home runs could put immense pressure on the Dodgers’ pitching staff.
- X-Factor: Judge’s defense. While he’s known for his bat, Judge is also an excellent right fielder. His cannon arm and range could play a critical role in keeping the Dodgers’ speedy baserunners in check.
2. Juan Soto (LF) Juan Soto joined the Yankees at the trade deadline and has been a difference-maker in the middle of the lineup. Known for his keen batting eye and clutch hitting, Soto’s presence alongside Judge provides a potent 1-2 punch for the Bronx Bombers.
- Key Stats: Soto finished the regular season with a .294 average, 39 home runs, and 110 RBIs. His ability to get on base, along with his power, makes him a perfect complement to Judge.
- X-Factor: Soto’s ability to handle left-handed pitching will be key. The Dodgers’ rotation includes top-tier lefties, and if Soto can handle them effectively, it could swing the series in the Yankees’ favor.
3. Gleyber Torres (2B) Gleyber Torres has quietly been one of the Yankees’ most consistent contributors this postseason. After an up-and-down regular season, Torres has turned it on in October, posting a .400 on-base percentage from the leadoff spot. His ability to set the table for Judge, Soto, and Giancarlo Stanton is crucial to the Yankees’ success.
- Key Stats: Torres’ .400 OBP in the postseason has been pivotal for New York’s offense. His ability to get on base, steal bases, and create scoring opportunities has forced pitchers to pitch to the Yankees’ sluggers with men on base.
- X-Factor: Torres’ resurgence after a few underwhelming years is a feel-good story, but his free agency looming this offseason means he has extra motivation to deliver on the big stage.
4. Gerrit Cole (SP) As the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, Gerrit Cole is the Yankees’ ace and will be tasked with shutting down the Dodgers’ high-powered offense. Cole’s fastball-slider combination is deadly, and his postseason experience will be critical in navigating the Dodgers’ dangerous lineup.
- Key Stats: Cole posted a 2.67 ERA in the regular season and was dominant in his postseason starts, often rising to the occasion in big games.
- X-Factor: Cole has had issues with the long ball in past postseasons. The Dodgers, particularly Ohtani and Betts, have the power to take advantage of any mistakes. If Cole can keep the ball in the park, he gives the Yankees a huge edge.
5. Anthony Volpe (SS) Anthony Volpe has come into his own during the Yankees’ postseason run. The young shortstop struggled at times during the regular season, but his patience and improved plate discipline have been a revelation in October. His defense at shortstop has also been critical to the Yankees’ success.
- Key Stats: Volpe’s .459 on-base percentage during the postseason has provided crucial support for the Yankees’ lineup. His ability to extend innings and provide opportunities for the big bats has been key.
- X-Factor: Volpe’s defensive range and athleticism could be the difference in a tight series. His ability to turn double plays and make key defensive stops will help the Yankees’ pitching staff, especially in high-pressure moments.
Los Angeles Dodgers:
1. Shohei Ohtani (DH) Shohei Ohtani is the centerpiece of the Dodgers’ lineup. The two-way superstar has been a revelation since joining Los Angeles, but this postseason has tested him. Ohtani has struggled with strikeouts, yet his power and ability to get on base make him a constant threat.
- Key Stats: Ohtani is batting .286 with three home runs and 10 RBIs in the postseason, but his strikeout rate (17 K’s in 11 games) is concerning.
- X-Factor: Ohtani’s speed. He stole 59 bases during the regular season, but hasn’t swiped one in the postseason. If Ohtani can get on base and utilize his speed, it will create havoc for the Yankees’ defense.
2. Mookie Betts (RF) Mookie Betts has been the catalyst for the Dodgers all season long. His ability to hit for power, average, and his gold-glove defense in right field make him a critical part of Los Angeles’ game plan. Betts can change the momentum of a game with one swing, or a spectacular defensive play.
- Key Stats: Betts is batting .290 with two home runs in the postseason and has scored 10 runs in 11 games.
- X-Factor: Betts’ experience in high-pressure situations (having won World Series titles with both the Dodgers and Red Sox) gives him an edge. His ability to lead by example will be crucial for the Dodgers, especially if their younger players struggle.
3. Freddie Freeman (1B) Freddie Freeman has been hampered by injury throughout the postseason, but his presence is still critical for the Dodgers. Freeman’s consistency as a hitter and his leadership in the clubhouse are invaluable.
- Key Stats: Freeman has struggled in the postseason, batting just .219 with one RBI. However, his track record as an eight-time All-Star and 2020 NL MVP suggests he can turn it around quickly.
- X-Factor: Freeman’s health is a concern. If his ankle injury lingers, the Dodgers may have to shuffle their lineup and move Max Muncy to first base. Freeman’s ability to contribute, even at less than 100%, could be the difference in a close series.
4. Yoshinobu Yamamoto (SP) Yamamoto has been a revelation for the Dodgers this year, delivering impressive performances as a rookie pitcher from Japan. He’s shown poise beyond his years and will be crucial in Game 2 of the series.
- Key Stats: Yamamoto posted a 3.38 ERA during the regular season, but his postseason numbers have been shakier, with a 5.11 ERA in three starts.
- X-Factor: Yamamoto’s ability to handle the pressure of the World Series. As a rookie, this will be his biggest test yet, and the Yankees’ patient hitters will force him to throw strikes. If he can rise to the occasion, the Dodgers will be in good shape.
5. Tommy Edman (SS) Tommy Edman was a surprise mid-season acquisition from the St. Louis Cardinals, but he has proven to be invaluable for the Dodgers, especially during the NLCS. Edman’s ability to hit in clutch situations and his defensive prowess at shortstop have been critical for the Dodgers.
- Key Stats: Edman batted .407 with 11 RBIs and a 1.022 OPS in the NLCS, earning MVP honors for his performance.
- X-Factor: Edman’s versatility. If the Dodgers’ lineup struggles, manager Dave Roberts may look to Edman to continue delivering in key situations. His switch-hitting ability and knack for making contact make him a dangerous player at the plate.
Arms Race: The Pitching Battle
Yankees’ Pitching Staff
The Yankees have the advantage on paper when it comes to their starting rotation. Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Clarke Schmidt are all capable of delivering dominant outings. Cole, the reigning AL Cy Young winner, is expected to set the tone for the Yankees. Rodón, when healthy, is a strikeout machine, while Schmidt has emerged as a reliable third option. Luis Gil, the rookie, adds depth to the rotation.
The Yankees’ bullpen has also been impressive this postseason. Luke Weaver has thrived in the closer role, while Tommy Kahnle and Tim Hill have been excellent in late-game situations. The key for New York will be keeping games close, as the Dodgers’ powerful lineup can quickly change the game’s complexion.
Dodgers’ Pitching Staff
Los Angeles has had to deal with a rash of injuries to its pitching staff, which has left manager Dave Roberts with fewer options. Jack Flaherty, who was acquired at the trade deadline, will start Game 1, but his postseason numbers have been inconsistent. Yamamoto will follow in Game 2, and the Dodgers will likely rely on Walker Buehler and bullpen games for the remaining contests.
Despite their injuries, the Dodgers’ bullpen has been stellar. Ryan Brasier, Daniel Hudson, and Evan Phillips have all been effective in high-leverage situations, and the team has shown it can win even with a patchwork rotation. The Yankees’ patient approach at the plate will test the Dodgers’ pitching depth, but Los Angeles has proven it can adapt.
The battle of the stars
Both the Yankees and Dodgers are loaded with star power, and this World Series has all the makings of an epic battle. While the focus will undoubtedly be on the big names like Judge, Soto, Ohtani, and Betts, the unsung heroes could be the ones who ultimately determine the outcome. Whether it’s a timely hit from Gleyber Torres, a clutch performance from Tommy Edman, or an unexpected bullpen arm stepping up in a key moment, this series has the potential to be one for the ages. Buckle up for what could be a thrilling World Series showdown!
