2024 World Series Game 1 Preview - NY Yankees vs. LA Dodgers: Can the Yankees steal home-field advantage? October 24, 2024 by Marc Jerbs

Game 1 of the 2024 World Series will reignite a historic rivalry as the New York Yankees take on the Los Angeles Dodgers on October 25. The much-anticipated showdown will be held at Dodger Stadium, with the first pitch set for 8:08 PM EDT.

This year's Fall Classic is especially significant as it marks the first Yankees-Dodgers World Series in 43 years. Fans from both sides are eager for this iconic matchup, with the Yankees aiming for their 28th championship, their first since 2009, while the Dodgers are in pursuit of their eighth title and second in five years. Historically, the Yankees have dominated this rivalry in the World Series, winning eight of the previous eleven encounters.

New York vs. Los Angeles Sports Bet Odds

The Dodgers are favorites to win the game. Here are our latest odds:

• The Dodgers are favored by 1.5 runs, with a money line of -119.
• The Yankees are the underdogs by 1.5 runs, with a money line of +109.
• The over/under is set at 8.5 runs, with the over at -110 and the under at -110.

For Game 1, the Yankees will send their ace, Gerrit Cole, to the mound. Cole, a key figure in the Yankees' pitching rotation, delivered an impressive 2024 season, pitching 95 innings with a 3.41 ERA and recording 99 strikeouts. His ability to stifle opposing hitters will be crucial in setting the tone for the series opener.

The Dodgers will counter with Jack Flaherty, a midseason acquisition who has helped stabilize their rotation. Despite some struggles in the postseason, Flaherty's performance will be pivotal in containing the Yankees' potent lineup. The Dodgers' bullpen, known for its depth, will also be a key factor in Game 1.

New York vs. Los Angeles Starting Pitchers Postseason Comparative Stats

Gerrit Cole RHP | NY		Jack Flaherty RHP | LA
1-0	W-L	1-2
3.31	ERA	7.04
1.53	WHIP	1.43
16.1	IP	15.1
19	H	15
12	K	8
6	BB	7
1	HR	3

Offensively, the Yankees are led by power hitters Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton. Judge smashed 58 home runs during the regular season, while Stanton earned ALCS MVP honors with his stellar postseason play. However, the Yankees have struggled with situational hitting, particularly with runners in scoring position, which could be a vulnerability.

On the other hand, the Dodgers feature a balanced offense spearheaded by Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, both of whom can deliver in clutch moments. While the Dodgers' pitching staff has been impacted by injuries, their reliable bullpen has remained a strength, making them a tough opponent in close games.

2024 Postseason Comparative New York vs. Los Angeles Stats

New York 94-68 | 50-31 Away		Los Angeles 98-64 | 52-29 Home
.237	Batting Average	.251
.346	On Base Percentage	.351
39	Runs Batted In	66
13	Home Runs	20
77	Strikeouts	89

With a rivalry that spans decades, the Yankees and Dodgers are set to deliver a thrilling opener. The atmosphere at Dodger Stadium promises to be electric as both teams' passionate fanbases cheer them on. Given the rich histories of both franchises, Game 1 is poised to create unforgettable moments as the Yankees try to steal home-field advantage while the Dodgers hope to continue their dominance at home.