The 2024 World Series between the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers will feature two notable offenses. But for Friday’s first game, a strong pitch early could be the difference for ace Gerrit Cole and others in pinstripes.
Despite his extensive experience, Cole did not do well with the ball in his hands heading into the start of the playoff series. According to Stathead, the veteran right-hander is one of just 13 pitchers to have made at least seven Game 1 starts in his career, with the fifth-highest ERA (4.93) and the fewest innings pitched (2). Boasting the second most home runs allowed (11) (38 1/3) of the group.
No team scored more runs (66) or hit more home runs (20) than the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2024 postseason. As MLB insider Joel Sherman speculated in Thursday’s Pinstripe Post, there is little room for error and the call will likely set the tone for the series either way.
“He could be the first champion, he could be the MVP of the series, that’s what’s at stake for him,” Sherman said. “On the other hand, if he gets knocked out in the second inning Friday night, the Yankees will be after him for at least the first two games, if not the entire series.”
In 2019, Cole started Game 1 of the World Series against the Houston Astros, losing to the Washington Nationals 5-4 with five runs in seven innings, and eventually winning in six games. This time, Cole will start at least two games (albeit on a different team) as an opportunity to right the wrongs of years ago.
It’s no secret the challenges facing L.A.’s offense, which boasts a lineup that includes star Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani, a top candidate for the 2024 National League MVP. As he spoke to reporters on Thursday, Cole, who is older and a little wiser, seemed unfazed by the task at hand, sharing a very matter-of-fact plan for attacking Dodgers hitters. did.
“You have to give it your all and give every pitch a chance, no matter how many balls you hit,” Cole said via SNY. “Hopefully, you embrace those situations and learn from them, just like you would any success.”
Winning Game 1 is not an absolute requirement, but if they can do so, the Yankees will be in control. Ahead of the 120th World Series, 63.8% of teams that won their opening games went on to win it all.
