The stage is set for a thrilling start to the 2024 World Series as the Los Angeles Dodgers announce Jack Flaherty as their Game 1 starter. The Southern California native will take the mound against the New York Yankees’ ace, Gerrit Cole, in what promises to be an electrifying opener at Dodger Stadium on Friday.
The much-anticipated Dodgers-Yankees showdown marks the first time the two teams have faced off in the World Series since 1981, renewing a historic rivalry that has seen these two legendary franchises clash for the championship 12 times. While the Dodgers triumphed in their last encounter, the Yankees hold an overall edge in titles, with eight wins against the Dodgers.
A Southern California Showdown
Both starting pitchers have deep roots in Southern California. Flaherty, who hails from Burbank and attended Harvard-Westlake, will get the ball for the Dodgers in Game 1. Cole, who grew up in Orange County and starred at Orange Lutheran High School, will represent the Yankees, having been their undisputed ace and the reigning AL Cy Young winner.
“Jack’s Been Good for Us”
Despite a challenging postseason run, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Flaherty, stating, “Jack’s been good for us, that last start notwithstanding.” The right-hander has had an up-and-down playoff journey, posting a 7.04 ERA through three outings. His struggles were highlighted by a rough Game 5 in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the Mets, where he allowed eight runs over just three innings.
Flaherty’s earlier performances, however, showed flashes of brilliance. In Game 1 of the NLCS, he pitched seven shutout innings, helping the Dodgers secure a critical win against the Mets. Acquired from the Detroit Tigers in a July trade, Flaherty proved to be a solid addition, posting a 6-2 record with a 3.58 ERA in 10 regular-season starts for the Dodgers.
Yamamoto and Buehler to Follow
Roberts confirmed that Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Japanese star pitcher the Dodgers acquired this season, will take the ball for Game 2 on Saturday. Yamamoto has had his share of ups and downs, returning from a shoulder injury earlier in the year. Despite a 1-0 record in the playoffs, his 5.11 ERA and shorter outings have raised some concerns.
The Dodgers’ pitching plan also involves right-hander Walker Buehler, who will start in either Game 3 or Game 4 at Yankee Stadium. Roberts indicated that one of those games would likely be a bullpen game, adding strategic flexibility to Los Angeles’ rotation. Buehler’s postseason has been a mix of highs and lows, with a 6.00 ERA over two starts, including a rocky Game 3 against the Padres in the National League Division Series (NLDS) but a strong showing against the Mets in the NLCS.
Yankees Ace Gerrit Cole Ready to Lead
Gerrit Cole will lead the Yankees into the World Series, fresh off an impressive season that earned him the AL Cy Young Award. The Southern California native has been the cornerstone of New York’s rotation, and his postseason experience will be vital for a Yankees team looking to reclaim championship glory.
Dodgers and Yankees Renew Storied Rivalry
The Dodgers-Yankees rivalry is one of the most storied in baseball history, with iconic matchups dating back to the Dodgers’ Brooklyn days. This year’s World Series will be the 12th between the two teams, more than any other pairing in MLB history. Dodgers fans are eager to relive the magic of 1981, when their team triumphed over the Yankees, and this year’s squad will hope to replicate that success.
Freddie Freeman to Return for Game 1
Dodgers star first baseman Freddie Freeman, who has been nursing a right ankle sprain, assured fans that he will be back in the lineup for Game 1. “I don’t think there’s any question on anybody’s mind that I won’t be in the lineup for Game 1,” Freeman said on Tuesday. The slugger’s presence is crucial for the Dodgers’ offense, though he has struggled in the postseason, hitting just .219 with no home runs.
A Battle of Talent and Strategy
As Game 1 approaches, fans can expect a tightly contested battle between two of baseball’s most talented teams. With Jack Flaherty looking to redeem his postseason and Gerrit Cole aiming to continue his dominance, the opening game is set to deliver all the drama and excitement that a Dodgers-Yankees World Series promises.
The World Series kicks off Friday night at Dodger Stadium, where two legendary franchises will reignite their rivalry under the bright lights of October baseball.
