The rivalry between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees is one of the most legendary in the history of the MLB. It unites two of the most passionate fanbases on opposite U.S. coasts. Since their first World Series matchup in 1941, these two teams have met now 12 times in the Fall Classic.
The Yankees have won eight and the Dodgers now four of those World Series. The intensity of the rivalry remains, especially as the Dodgers prepare to meet for the 12th time in the 2024 World Series, despite moving from Brooklyn to Los Angeles in 1958, in one of baseball’s most historic relocations.
Los Angeles vs. New York
Their rivalry began in New York, with the Dodgers playing in Brooklyn and the Yankees in the Bronx. The Dodgers’ move to Los Angeles in 1958 shifted the rivalry to a coast-to-coast spectacle.
Their victories, such as the 1963 World Series, created iconic moments that fueled the rivalry. Accordingly, this rivalry has grown beyond baseball, symbolizing a historic clash between East and West Coast identities.
Iconic World Series Moments
Throughout their history, both teams have delivered some of baseball’s most memorable World Series moments. The 1977 series saw Yankees slugger Reggie Jackson hit three home runs in a single game, earning him the nickname “Mr. October.”
In contrast, 1981 marked a turning point for the Dodgers. Rookie Fernando Valenzuela helped them claim victory against the Yankees, energizing a fanbase that had waited years for a title and kicking off “Fernandomania” in the US.
This year’s edition also contributed to the lore of the rivalry, particularly in Game 4 when a Yankees fan tried to interfere with a fly ball heading towards Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts. Although the play was called an out and the Yankees eventually won the game, the moment went insanely viral and will be remembered forever.
Who are the best players in Dodgers and Yankees history?
From Jackie Robinson breaking baseball’s color barrier with the Dodgers to Joe DiMaggio’s legendary performances for the Yankees, each team has introduced icons who have transformed the sport.
Today it’s Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani who carry this rivalry to a new generation of fans. This global appeal draws viewers from around the world, turning Dodgers-Yankees matchups into must-watch events.
Was the Dodgers-Yankees 2024 World Series worth the hype?
They are much more than baseball teams. They represent longstanding traditions, iconic histories, and some of the most dedicated fanbases in sports. This 2024 World Series clash was the ultimate chance to witness the revival of a rivalry that has shaped the MLB and inspired fans for decades.
Why the Yankees losing the World Series is still a win for New York
Although the Yankees were defeated in Game 5 this year by the LA Dodgers, it’s still a win for us. While of course they now rep the opposite coast as much as the next team, let’s not forget where the Dodgers were born and bred…BROOKLYN! We’re claimin’ that!