An overview of the 27 Yankees players poised to face the Dodgers in the 2024 World Series, beginning with Game 1 on Friday:
Jon Berti, IF
The return of Anthony Rizzo diminishes Berti’s role, as he is likely to serve primarily as a pinch hitter or pinch runner. Although Berti did secure a start against the Guardians when facing left-hander Matthew Boyd, he will have limited opportunities unless Rizzo is unable to play due to the broken fingers on his right hand, likely relegating Berti to bench duty.
Oswaldo Cabrera, IF/OF
Cabrera has not yet met the offensive expectations the Yankees had for him at the major league level. However, his speed and defensive flexibility make him an asset, particularly at this critical juncture of the season. He has adapted well to playing first base, providing added depth behind Anthony Rizzo.
Jazz Chisholm Jr., 3B
Chisholm has shown his worth after joining the Yankees in a trade with the Marlins, boasting 11 home runs, 18 stolen bases, and an .825 OPS across 46 games. He claims he performs best under pressure, and the stakes don’t get any higher than the World Series. The Yankees are optimistic he will find his rhythm, especially after a quiet postseason thus far.
Gerrit Cole, RHP
The World Series will serve as a homecoming for Cole, who hails from Orange, California—just an hour from Dodger Stadium—and attended UCLA. This season has been a rollercoaster for the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, who made his debut on June 19 due to an elbow injury and has experienced inconsistency during the postseason.
Nestor Cortes, LHP
Cortes could prove to be a key factor out of the bullpen against the Dodgers’ potent left-handed hitters. He limited lefties to a .530 OPS during the regular season. Though sidelined since September 18 with a left elbow flexor strain, he has shown improvement and is expected to be included on the World Series roster.
Jake Cousins, RHP
You might recognize his cousin: Kirk Cousins, the quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons. Jake has emerged as a crucial member of the Yankees’ bullpen this summer, posting a 2.37 ERA in 37 relief appearances after signing a minor league contract last December.
Jasson Dominguez, OF
The Yankees’ top outfield prospect has been largely absent from the postseason after failing to make an impact in September, which cost him the chance to replace Alex Verdugo. He could see some action as a pinch hitter against the Dodgers’ array of high-leverage, right-handed pitchers.
Clay Holmes, RHP
After being demoted from the closer role in early September, Holmes put together 11 straight scoreless outings before two shaky performances in the third and fourth games of the ALCS. He will be an essential component of this bullpen as they look to bridge the gap to Luke Weaver.
Luis Gil, RHP
In 2015, Gil signed with the Twins as an international free agent for a $90,000 bonus. Minnesota likely regrets letting him go, as the Yankees acquired him three years later by trading outfielder Jake Cave. Gil is a strong contender for the AL Rookie of the Year award this season.
Trent Grisham, OF
Grisham’s inclusion on the World Series roster could come as a surprise, given that he did not participate in the earlier two rounds. However, the agile outfielder could prove valuable as a pinch runner or defensive substitute if required.
Tim Hill, LHP
This season has been a wild journey for the side-arming lefty, from being designated for assignment by the White Sox—the lowest-ranked team in baseball history—to making it to the World Series. After joining the Yankees in late June, Hill performed admirably, posting a 2.05 ERA across 35 regular-season games and allowing just one earned run in 5 playoff innings.
Aaron Judge, OF
This year, Judge reached the milestone of 300 home runs in just 955 games, setting a new record for the fewest games taken to achieve this feat. The likely AL MVP had an extraordinary regular season, finishing with a career-high .322 batting average, 58 home runs, and 144 RBIs, also his highest to date. His future seems to be leading straight to the Hall of Fame.
Tommy Kahnle, RHP
The setup man for the team has been remarkably effective in October, surrendering only three hits over seven scoreless innings. Since September 3rd, he has allowed just two earned runs across 14 frames while striking out 15 batters. The Yankees were in need of someone to step up alongside Luke Weaver at the back end of the bullpen, and Kahnle has embraced that challenge.
Mark Leiter Jr., RHP
The Leiter family has a strong legacy in New Jersey’s pitching scene, much like the Hurleys do in basketball coaching. Mark’s uncle, Al, had a career with the Mets and Yankees, while his father, Mark, pitched for 11 years in the big leagues. Adding to this lineage, his cousin, Jack, is a current starting pitcher for the Rangers. Clearly, good genes run in the family.
Tim Mayza, LHP
With Nestor Cortes back in the mix, Mayza might find himself relegated to mop-up duties as the bullpen’s third lefty. After being released by the Blue Jays, the Yankees signed the 32-year-old Mayza in mid-August, but his usage in the playoffs has been limited.
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Anthony Rizzo, 1B
The 35-year-old, a 2016 World Series champion with the Cubs, has been playing through two fractured fingers on his right hand yet managed to be quite effective in the ALCS, recording six hits in 14 at-bats after being omitted from the ALDS roster. A survivor of Hodgkin lymphoma during his teenage years, Rizzo has established a foundation to assist families impacted by pediatric cancer.
Carlos Rodon, LHP
After a rocky start in his first postseason appearance, the emotional left-hander bounced back with two solid performances, giving up three earned runs across 10 innings while striking out 15 batters. His second season with the Yankees was an improvement, featuring a 3.96 ERA and 195 strikeouts in 175 innings, yet he remains an unpredictable player, capable of both dazzling and disappointing outings.
Clarke Schmidt, RHP
A success story in player development for the Yankees, the 28-year-old Schmidt has matured into a dependable middle-of-the-rotation pitcher. While he hasn’t provided significant length in the playoffs—his two starts each lasting 4 innings—he has given up just two earned runs in both outings.
Juan Soto, OF
In his first game as a
In a pivotal moment against the despised Astros, Yankee Soto threw out the potential tying run at home plate, marking the start of an impressive season ahead. He achieved personal milestones with 41 home runs and 128 runs scored. His impactful performance continued in October, propelling the Yankees to their first World Series appearance in 15 years with a crucial three-run homer in the 10th inning of the decisive Game 5 of the ALCS.
Giancarlo Stanton, DH
The formidable slugger currently holds the top spot among active players with 429 career home runs and is set to participate in his first World Series after 15 years in the league. Growing up a Dodgers fan in Los Angeles, Stanton boasts impressive stats at Dodger Stadium, where he has hit 10 home runs, driven in 26 RBIs, and maintained a .309 batting average across 25 games. Additionally, he earned MVP honors during the 2022 All-Star Game held there.
Marcus Stroman, RHP
Like Anthony Volpe, Stroman is a local talent who shone at Patchogue-Medford High School on Long Island. However, the postseason has been relatively uneventful for the right-hander, who has yet to take the mound in a game, partly due to his struggles to get strikeouts and a concerning 8.80 ERA in September.
Gleyber Torres, 2B
Set to become a free agent, Torres has effectively addressed the Yankees’ leadoff challenges by hitting .310 since being moved to the top of the order on August 16 in Detroit. The 27-year-old second baseman has proven to be an excellent table-setter during the playoffs, recording a .400 on-base percentage alongside nine runs scored.
Jose Trevino, C
Despite Austin Wells struggling significantly with his hitting over the past seven weeks, Trevino’s playing time has not increased. He has started in one playoff game and appeared in another, but it is unlikely that he will see further action in this series, as the Dodgers lack left-handed starting pitchers.
Alex Verdugo, OF
Verdugo’s solid connections to the Dodgers run deep. He was drafted by them in the second round of the 2014 draft, made his debut in 2017, and later became the key player in the Mookie Betts trade with the Red Sox after the 2019 season. His outstanding defensive skills have helped to quell calls for Jasson Dominguez to take his place in the lineup.
Anthony Volpe, SS
A lifelong Derek Jeter fan, Volpe grew up attending Yankees games and blossomed into a top prospect at a prestigious local high school (Delbarton School) in New Jersey. Now in his second season in the majors, Volpe has been quietly impactful in the playoffs, achieving a .310 batting average, a .459 on-base percentage, and a .345 slugging percentage, leading to an .804 OPS.
Luke Weaver, RHP
Initially overlooked during spring training, Weaver has emerged as a crucial player for the Yankees. Although he allowed a game-tying two-run homer in the Guardians’ only victory in the previous series, the new closer has permitted earned runs in just two of his last 16 outings over 21 innings of work.
Austin Wells, C
Once considered a candidate for AL Rookie of the Year, Wells has entered the World Series in the midst of a severe slump following a turbulent September. Despite hitting a home run in Game 4 of the ALCS—his first since September 9—he has managed only 3 hits in 33 postseason at-bats, accumulating an overall record of 11 hits in 105 at-bats since September.
Meet the 27 Yankees Set to Clash with the Dodgers in the 2024 World Series: Player Insights and Key Roles
The Legacy of the 27 Yankees
The New York Yankees, often referred to as the “Bronx Bombers,” have established a legendary status in Major League Baseball (MLB). The 27-time World Series champions are known for their remarkable talent and sportsmanship. In this article, we will explore the iconic 27 Yankees roster that is poised to clash with the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2024 World Series, highlighting player insights and key roles that could influence the outcome of this epic showdown.
Key Players of the 2024 Yankees
As the Yankees prepare for the World Series, it’s essential to spotlight key players who will play significant roles in their quest for another championship title. Each of these athletes brings unique skills and experience to the game.
1. Aaron Judge – The Power Hitter
Aaron Judge, the reigning AL MVP, returns as a cornerstone of the Yankees lineup. Known for his towering home runs and defensive prowess, Judge’s ability to perform under pressure is unmatched.
- Position: Right Fielder
- 2023 Stats: .290 AVG, 45 HR, 112 RBIs
2. Gerrit Cole - The Ace Pitcher
Gerrit Cole leads the pitching rotation with his ace-level talent and consistency. His strikeout capability and control make him a formidable opponent on the mound.
- Position: Starting Pitcher
- 2023 Stats: 19 Wins, 246 Strikeouts, 3.10 ERA
3. Giancarlo Stanton – The Designated Hitter
Giancarlo Stanton provides the Yankees with additional power and experience. His ability to slug home runs at crucial moments makes him a dangerous hitter in high-stress situations.
- Position: Designated Hitter
- 2023 Stats: .275 AVG, 38 HR, 98 RBIs
4. Luis Severino – The Reliable Starter
After battling injuries in previous seasons, Luis Severino has made a strong comeback. His dynamic pitching style and ability to go deep into games will be vital for the Yankees in the World Series.
- Position: Starting Pitcher
- 2023 Stats: 15 Wins, 201 Strikeouts, 3.75 ERA
Supporting Cast: The Unsung Heroes
While the stars shine bright, the supporting cast is equally important. Here are a few players whose contributions can make a significant difference:
1. DJ LeMahieu – The Versatile Infielder
LeMahieu’s ability to play multiple positions while maintaining a high batting average makes him an invaluable asset to the team.
- Position: Utility Infielder
- 2023 Stats: .288 AVG, 15 HR, 64 RBIs
2. Isiah Kiner-Falefa – The Agile Shortstop
Kiner-Falefa brings speed and agility to the infield. His defensive skills contribute significantly to the Yankees’ overall performance.
- Position: Shortstop
- 2023 Stats: .265 AVG, 10 HR, 50 RBIs
3. Clay Holmes – The Closer
Holmes has emerged as a reliable closer, showcasing a powerful fastball and a sharp slider. His composure in critical situations is crucial for late-game scenarios.
- Position: Relief Pitcher
- 2023 Stats: 30 Saves, 2.50 ERA
Player Insights: What Makes Them Tick
Understanding the mindset and mechanics of these players can provide insight into their potential performance in the World Series.
Aaron Judge: Leadership and Focus
Judge is not only the face of the franchise but also serves as a mentor to younger players. His approach involves maintaining a strong mental game, focusing on situational hitting, and using his size to his advantage.
Gerrit Cole: Preparing for Pressure
Cole thrives in high-pressure situations. His preparation involves extensive video analysis and a deep understanding of opposing hitters, allowing him to adjust his strategy on the fly.
Giancarlo Stanton: Power with Precision
Stanton emphasizes the importance of timing and pitch recognition. His hitting philosophy focuses on finding the right pitch to drive rather than solely chasing home runs.
The Dodgers: A Formidable Opponent
The Los Angeles Dodgers are another team with a rich history in baseball, making this World Series matchup a clash of titans. Their roster features a mix of young talent and seasoned veterans, each capable of influencing the series. Key players include:
| Player Name | Position | 2023 Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Freddie Freeman | First Baseman | .310 AVG, 27 HR, 97 RBIs |
| Cody Bellinger | Center Fielder | .287 AVG, 22 HR, 75 RBIs |
| Walker Buehler | Starting Pitcher | 16 Wins, 215 Strikeouts, 3.30 ERA |
Game Strategies: Yankees vs. Dodgers
Both teams will need to leverage their strengths while exploiting potential weaknesses in their opponents. Here are some expected strategies that might come into play:
Offensive Strategy
- Power Hitting: The Yankees will rely on their power hitters to capitalize on any mistakes made by the Dodgers’ pitching staff.
- Small Ball: Conversely, the Dodgers may employ a small ball approach, focusing on base hits and stolen bases to create scoring opportunities.
Defensive Strategy
- Pitching Matchups: Both teams will strategically match their starters against opposing lineups to maximize advantage.
- Defensive Alignments: Expect both teams to adjust defensive alignments based on hitters’ tendencies throughout the series.
Fan Engagement: Building the Excitement
The 2024 World Series promises to be an exhilarating event, not just for the players but also for the fans. Engaging with fans through social media, merchandise, and fan events can amplify the excitement surrounding this historic matchup.
Social Media Buzz
Teams can leverage platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to share behind-the-scenes content, player interviews, and live updates during games, fostering community and excitement among fans.
Merchandising Opportunities
Offering exclusive World Series merchandise can enhance fan experience and engagement. Limited edition jerseys, caps, and memorabilia can create a buzz and generate additional revenue for the teams.
Experiencing the World Series Live
Attending a World Series game is a bucket-list experience for many baseball fans. Here are some practical tips for fans planning to watch the Yankees vs. Dodgers live:
- Secure Tickets Early: World Series tickets sell out quickly, so it’s vital to purchase them as soon as they become available.
- Arrive Early: Getting to the stadium early allows fans to soak in the atmosphere, participate in pre-game activities, and avoid long lines.
- Know the Parking Options: Research parking options in advance to ensure a smooth arrival at the venue.
- Dress Appropriately: Be prepared for changing weather conditions at the stadium by dressing in layers.
Conclusion
The 2024 World Series between the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers is set to be a thrilling contest filled with high stakes and memorable moments. With key players ready to showcase their talents and the legacy of both franchises on the line, fans can expect an unforgettable championship series. Get ready to cheer on your team and witness baseball history in
