After 15 years, Yankee Stadium is set to host its first World Series game on Monday. However, the atmosphere may not resemble a celebration.
Following a 4-2 defeat to the Dodgers in Game 2 on Saturday night, the Yankees return home trailing the series 2-0. Their offense remained dormant until the ninth inning, where a late rally proved insufficient.
The disappointment of the Game 2 loss amplified the regret of dropping Game 1. On Friday, they committed two significant defensive errors that proved costly, compounded by several strategic moves that left room for second-guessing. In contrast, Saturday’s game concluded with a clear defeat.
As the Yankees prepare for Game 3 on Monday night in The Bronx, they await news on Shohei Ohtani’s shoulder injury after he suffered a subluxation while attempting to steal second base in the eighth inning on Saturday. The Yankees find their season hanging by a thread.
Aaron Judge struck out in the ninth inning during the Yankees’ Game 2 World Series loss to the Dodgers on Oct. 26, 2024. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
For a brief recap of Game 2:
— The Yankees will struggle to advance without Aaron Judge performing at his best. The potential AL MVP had a rough outing, going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts, bringing his World Series tally to 1-for-9 and leaving him with a dismal 6-for-40 and 19 strikeouts for October.
There remains a chance to turn things around, but at this moment, Judge ends the season similarly to how he began. Although he had five months of exceptional performance with record-breaking statistics, he has fallen into a slump at a critical juncture during these first 11 playoff games — reminiscent of a stretch earlier in the season where he went 6-for-43 with 20 strikeouts over 11 games from April 15 to April 26, but now these at-bats carry significantly more weight.
Judge faced boos from the home crowd during the 2022 ALDS despite his historic 62-homer season. Should he have a few more disappointing at-bats on Monday night, history could well repeat itself. Or perhaps he can alter the narrative with a single powerful swing.
Aaron Judge reacts after a strikeout during Game 2 of the World Series on Oct. 26, 2024. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
Amid Judge’s struggles this postseason, where he has expanded his strike zone and been affected by low-breaking pitches, one aspect stands out. In the regular season, Judge hit 18 of his 58 homers in the first inning, boasting a .359 batting average and a 1.307 OPS. However, in 11 playoff first innings, he is 0-for-10 with six strikeouts and one hit by pitch. He has had seven opportunities with runners in scoring position within those 11 first innings but has failed to capitalize. This trend risks becoming increasingly disheartening.
At this stage, the Yankees would welcome a productive bat from Judge in any inning. However, perhaps getting off to a strong start on Monday could shift their fortunes.
Follow The Post’s coverage of the Yankees in the postseason:
— The rotation advantage the Yankees appeared to have at the start of the series has not materialized as expected.
This perception was partly due to the Yankees having four starters versus the Dodgers’ three, but that does little good when Carlos Rodon can only manage 3 ⅓ innings in Game 2, particularly when he was clearly outperformed by Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who went 6 ⅓ innings allowing just one hit and one run.
Over the first two games, the Yankees’ bullpen has pitched 8 ⅓ innings, in contrast to 7 ⅓ for the Dodgers. The Dodgers still face a bullpen game in Game 4, but so far, their starting pitchers, including Jack Flaherty and Yamamoto, have delivered stellar performances.
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Rodon struggled with his fastball on Saturday, which led to all three home runs he allowed—first to Tommy Edman in the second inning, followed by back-to-back home runs from Teoscar Hernandez and Freddie Freeman in the third. Notably, Rodon yielded four consecutive hits in the third inning, all from his fastball.
— Tim Hill’s outing in Game 2 is unlikely to silence critics of the decisions made in Game 1. The left-handed reliever was warming up alongside Nestor Cortes on Friday night, only to see Cortes enter the game in the 10th inning, where he surrendered a walk-off grand slam to Freeman. Hill stepped onto the mound in the fifth inning on Saturday and promptly forced Freeman to pop out.
This marked the start of four straight batters Hill put away on just 14 pitches. While it’s unclear whether he would have navigated past Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freeman in Friday night’s 10th inning, it certainly rekindles the question of “What if?”
Yankees reliever Tim Hill leaves the field after being removed during the sixth inning in Game 2 of the World Series on Oct. 26, 2024. Jason Szenes for the NY Post
— As if trailing 2-0 in the World Series isn’t challenging enough, the Yankees are enduring discomfort from players they previously aimed to acquire at the trade deadline this summer (Flaherty and Edman) or during last offseason (Yamamoto).
Yamamoto shut down the Yankees for the second time this year. In June, he pitched seven shutout innings against a lineup missing Juan Soto at Yankee Stadium. On Saturday night, the only hit he permitted over 6 ⅓ innings was a solo home run from Soto.
The Yankees’ most effective at-bats occurred in the ninth inning, when they nearly managed to score against Blake Treinen, whom they have managed to score on in consecutive games. However, he, along with Alex Vesia, managed to limit the damage to just one run.
Quick hits
Teams that take a 2-0 lead in the World Series have historically gone on to win 80.4 percent of the time (45 out of 57). The Yankees have been part of only two of the 12 teams that rebounded from a 2-0 deficit to win the World Series (in 1996 and 1978). Notably, two of those victories came against the Dodgers. … Soto has now hit four home runs this postseason, with each serving to tie the game or give the Yankees the lead.
Yankees Face Uphill Battle as World Series Returns to Yankee Stadium After 15 Years
The Significance of the World Series at Yankee Stadium
The New York Yankees, one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball (MLB) history, are set to host the World Series at Yankee Stadium for the first time in 15 years. This momentous occasion brings not only a sense of nostalgia but also high expectations from fans and analysts alike. The Yankees have a rich history in the World Series, with 27 championships to their name, making their home games in the series particularly monumental.
Historical Context: A 15-Year Gap
The last time the Yankees hosted a World Series was in 2009 when they faced the Philadelphia Phillies. Since then, the team has seen ups and downs, with various roster changes and managerial shifts. This 15-year gap has heightened anticipation among fans, as they reminisce about past glories and hope for a return to championship form.
Recent Performance and Current Roster
As of 2023, the Yankees have shown flashes of brilliance in the regular season but face significant competition in the playoffs. Their current roster combines seasoned veterans with young talent, creating a dynamic that could either lead to success or struggle under pressure.
- Key Players to Watch:
- Aaron Judge – Captain and power hitter
- Gerrit Cole – Ace pitcher with playoff experience
- Giancarlo Stanton – Known for clutch performances
- Emerging Stars:
- Anthony Volpe – Rookie sensation
- Clarke Schmidt – Promising young pitcher
Challenges Facing the Yankees
Despite the excitement surrounding the World Series returning to Yankee Stadium, the Yankees face several challenges that could impede their quest for a title.
Strong Competition
The MLB landscape is competitive, with teams like the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Dodgers also vying for the championship. The Yankees must bring their A-game against these formidable opponents, who have proven track records in the postseason.
Injuries and Roster Depth
Injuries can significantly impact a team’s performance, and the Yankees have experienced their fair share in recent seasons. While they have a strong starting lineup, depth plays a crucial role in the playoffs where every game counts.
Benefits of Hosting the World Series at Yankee Stadium
Hosting the World Series at such an iconic venue comes with unparalleled benefits for the Yankees and their fan base.
- Home Field Advantage: The supportive Yankee crowd can energize players and create a challenging environment for opposing teams.
- Historical Legacy: Yankee Stadium is a revered site for baseball, and performing well here adds to the legacy of the franchise.
- Increased Revenue: A World Series draw increases ticket sales, merchandise, and local business revenue, providing a financial boost.
Fan Experience: What to Expect
Fans attending the World Series at Yankee Stadium can expect an unforgettable experience. Here are some key highlights to look forward to:
Pre-Game Festivities
Yankee Stadium typically hosts various pre-game events, including live music, fan contests, and player meet-and-greets, creating an electric atmosphere before the first pitch.
In-Game Entertainment
From iconic seventh-inning stretches to the famous “Roll Call” in the bleachers, the entertainment at Yankee Stadium is unparalleled. Expect thrilling visuals on the big screen and fan interactions throughout the game.
Case Studies: Previous World Series at Yankee Stadium
To understand the significance of this moment, we can look back at past World Series held at Yankee Stadium:
| Year | Opponent | Yankees’ Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Philadelphia Phillies | Won (4-2) |
| 2000 | New York Mets | Won (4-1) |
| 1996 | Atlanta Braves | Won (4-2) |
Practical Tips for Attending the World Series
If you’re planning to attend the World Series at Yankee Stadium, here are some practical tips to enhance your experience:
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by arriving at least 2 hours before the game starts to explore the stadium and enjoy pre-game activities.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re attending games during warmer weather.
- Wear Team Colors: Show your support by wearing Yankees gear, but be prepared for varying weather conditions.
- Plan Your Transportation: Whether driving or using public transport, plan ahead to avoid last-minute hassles on game day.
- Enjoy the Concessions: Don’t miss out on classic ballpark food like hot dogs, pretzels, and the famous Yankee Stadium garlic fries!
First-Hand Experience: Interviews with Fans
To capture the essence of what it means to attend a World Series game at Yankee Stadium, we spoke with several fans who attended past World Series:
Fan Insights
John D., Longtime Yankees Fan: “There’s nothing like the atmosphere at Yankee Stadium during the World Series. The energy is electric, and every cheer feels like it’s fueling the team.”
Lisa M., Season Ticket Holder: “I’ve been to a few World Series games, and the camaraderie among fans is incredible. It’s like being part of a big family rooting for the same goal.”
Looking Ahead: What This Means for the Yankees
The return of the World Series to Yankee Stadium after 15 years signals not only a chance for the Yankees to reclaim their glory but also a pivotal moment for the franchise and its fans. With the right mindset, strategy, and determination, the Yankees could once again emerge as champions, adding another chapter to their illustrious history.
