When does World Series Start? Start Date, Fixtures & Everything You Need to Know
As October approaches its end, baseball fans across the world eagerly await the most anticipated event in Major League Baseball (MLB) — the World Series. This thrilling event, which marks the culmination of the baseball season, pits the champions of the American League (AL) against those of the National League (NL). The 2024 World Series promises to be an exciting battle between the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers, two of the most iconic teams in baseball history.
This article dives into when the World Series starts, what to expect from the teams, and other key details to help you gear up for this highly anticipated sporting event.
When Does the 2024 World Series Start?
The 2024 World Series is set to begin on Friday, October 25, with Game 1 taking place at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, at 8:08 PM ET. As the Dodgers have home-field advantage, they will host the first two games before the series moves to New York for Games 3 and 4. If necessary, additional games will be played in a best-of-seven format, with the final game, Game 7, scheduled for November 2, if the series reaches that point.
The games will be broadcast live on FOX, and those with MLB.TV subscriptions who have cable authentication will be able to stream the event online.
The Matchup: New York Yankees vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
The 2024 World Series brings together two of the most storied franchises in baseball, the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Both teams have rich histories, numerous World Series titles, and passionate fan bases. Their rivalry, although not as frequent as some, adds an extra layer of excitement to the series.
1. New York Yankees
The Yankees are no strangers to the World Series, having appeared in a record 40 series and securing 27 championships — more than any other MLB team. Their 2024 campaign has been a testament to their consistency and power. Led by star players such as Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole, the Yankees have dominated in key moments, bringing strong pitching, powerful hitting, and a deep roster of talent that makes them formidable opponents.
The Yankees have a reputation for thriving in high-pressure situations, and their fans are expecting nothing less than a championship this year. With their last World Series win dating back to 2009, the Yankees are eager to end their title drought.
2. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers are no less accomplished. With 7 World Series titles, the Dodgers have been one of the most consistent teams in recent years. Having won the World Series as recently as 2020, the Dodgers have been perennial contenders, boasting a deep roster filled with both young talents and veteran experience. Stars like Mookie Betts and Clayton Kershaw lead a roster that has shown it can dominate both offensively and defensively.
The Dodgers are known for their depth and versatility, which has allowed them to adjust to injuries and difficult matchups throughout the season. Their home-field advantage for the first two games of the series gives them a significant boost, as they will look to gain an early lead in the series.
What to Expect from the 2024 World Series
This year’s World Series is shaping up to be a memorable one, with both teams bringing their best into the final showdown. Here are some key aspects to watch for:
1. Pitching Duels
Both teams have strong pitching staffs, and the series is likely to feature some nail-biting pitching matchups. For the Yankees, Gerrit Cole, one of the top pitchers in the league, is expected to be a major factor. Cole’s ability to strike out batters and control the game could give the Yankees the edge in low-scoring, defensive battles. Additionally, the Yankees’ bullpen is among the most reliable in the league, capable of closing out games in tight situations.
On the other side, the Dodgers have their own pitching aces, including the veteran Clayton Kershaw and rising star Julio Urías. Kershaw’s postseason experience and Urías’ consistency make the Dodgers a tough team to score against, especially in their home ballpark. If the Dodgers can shut down the Yankees’ powerful offense, they will have a significant advantage.
2. Power Hitting
Both the Yankees and Dodgers have lineups stacked with power hitters. Aaron Judge, who broke the AL home run record in 2022 with 62 homers, will be a key player to watch. Judge’s ability to change the course of a game with one swing makes him a constant threat. Alongside Judge, players like Giancarlo Stanton and Anthony Rizzo add more firepower to the Yankees’ offense.
For the Dodgers, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman are the driving forces behind their offense. Betts, known for his ability to get on base and deliver in clutch moments, will be a crucial factor if the Dodgers are to put pressure on the Yankees’ pitchers. Freeman, a former MVP, has consistently been one of the best hitters in baseball, and his ability to drive in runs will be critical for the Dodgers.
3. Defense and Depth
The depth and defensive prowess of both teams will be tested in this series. The Yankees have built their roster with a focus on strong defense, particularly in the infield. Players like Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Gleyber Torres have the ability to make game-changing plays with their gloves.
The Dodgers, meanwhile, have one of the most versatile rosters in baseball, with players who can shift between positions as needed. This depth allows the Dodgers to adjust to different matchups and situations, giving them flexibility when facing different pitching styles or making late-game substitutions.
4. Managing Pressure
One of the key factors that will determine the outcome of the series is how well each team manages the pressure of playing on the biggest stage in baseball. The Yankees, with their rich history, have been here many times before, but their recent struggles to capture another title may weigh heavily on the team. Managing expectations, both from the media and their fans, will be crucial to their success.
The Dodgers, too, face their own pressure. After several near-misses in the past decade, they finally broke through in 2020, but the expectation to win again remains. Playing the first two games at home, where the crowd will be behind them, could give them the early momentum they need.
Key Dates and Schedule
The 2024 World Series will be played over a seven-game series, with the following schedule (all times ET):
Game 1: Friday, October 25 – New York Yankees at Los Angeles Dodgers (8:08 PM)
Game 2: Saturday, October 26 – New York Yankees at Los Angeles Dodgers (8:08 PM)
Game 3: Monday, October 28 – Los Angeles Dodgers at New York Yankees (8:08 PM)
Game 4: Tuesday, October 29 – Los Angeles Dodgers at New York Yankees (8:08 PM)
Game 5: Wednesday, October 30 (if necessary) – Los Angeles Dodgers at New York Yankees (8:08 PM)
Game 6: Friday, November 1 (if necessary) – New York Yankees at Los Angeles Dodgers (8:08 PM)
Game 7: Saturday, November 2 (if necessary) – New York Yankees at Los Angeles Dodgers (8:08 PM)
Finally
The 2024 World Series is poised to be a thrilling contest between two of baseball’s most celebrated franchises. With powerful lineups, elite pitching, and high expectations on both sides, the series will undoubtedly provide plenty of memorable moments. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Yankees or Dodgers, or simply a baseball enthusiast, this series promises to be an epic finale to the MLB season. As the games begin, all eyes will be on the players as they battle for the coveted title of World Series champions.
