NEW YORK — The long-standing rivalry between two iconic baseball teams, the Yankees and the Dodgers, is set to reignite as they face off in the World Series for the first time in 43 years. This exciting matchup will take place starting this Friday at Dodger Stadium, with the Yankees celebrating their 41st American League pennant and the Dodgers their 25th National League title. As New York aims for its 28th World Series championship—its first since 2009—the Dodgers are focused on securing their eighth title, aiming for their second win in five years.
In this thrilling contest, the storied Yankees will don their classic pinstripes while the Dodgers will showcase their Pantone 294 uniforms. This held significance for both teams, as explored by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts during a visit to Yankee Stadium back in June. He emphasized that playing for such historic franchises should feel different and special. The game is set against the contrasting backdrops of Yankee Stadium’s autumn chill and the sunny Chavez Ravine at Dodger Stadium, with the majestic San Gabriel Mountains providing a picturesque view.
Historically, the Yankees hold the edge in their World Series encounters, leading with an 8-3 record against the Dodgers. Their competition began with the Brooklyn Dodgers, where the Yankees previously recorded a 6-1 success, and they’ve matched up 2-2 since the rivalry transitioned to Los Angeles. Iconic moments from this rivalry have included noteworthy performances from legends like Mickey Owen, Sandy Koufax, and Reggie Jackson, with the first World Series face-off occurring in 1941 in what would become a wild finale.
In that series, Brooklyn found itself ahead late with a 4-3 score when a crucial dropped third strike opened the door for New York to seize victory. This dramatic turn allowed the Yankees to score four runs after two outs, ultimately winning that game 7-4 and closing out the series in five. Other memorable highlights include key plays and performances from both teams over the years, such as Johnny Podres’ shutout for the Dodgers in their 1955 championship and Don Larsen’s perfect game in 1956.
After the Dodgers relocated to California following the 1957 season, the rivalry simmered until it reignited in 1977. A historic moment occurred when Reggie Jackson hit three home runs in Game 6, leading the Yankees to victory. In 1981, despite losing the first two games at Yankee Stadium, the Dodgers swept the next four, culminating in a victory that had their manager, Tommy Lasorda, celebrating on the field. This response from the Yankees organization reflected the intensity and passion surrounding this rivalry, emphasizing the longstanding connection between the teams.
As players gear up for this historic series, the sense of legacy looms large. Juan Soto, a key player for the Yankees, spoke about the feelings evoked when donning the team’s pinstripes, reinforcing the significance of tradition in the world of baseball. Their recent matchup in June saw the Dodgers claim two victories out of three, adding more fuel to an already charged atmosphere heading into the World Series.
Roberts, reflecting on the historical weight of this rivalry, expressed a sense of pride as he drives toward Dodger Stadium, acknowledging the influence of past legends. “I can’t believe I’m driving up Vin Scully Way, when I go to work,” he shared, recognizing the immense legacy he steps into daily while focusing on his responsibilities as a manager.