The highly anticipated 2024 World Series is finally upon us, featuring a thrilling matchup between the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers. After a grueling season filled with ups and downs, these two baseball giants will vie for the Commissioner’s Trophy, with the series kicking off on Friday at Dodger Stadium. The championship could wrap up by November 2 at the latest, promising an exciting showdown.
The Yankees secured their spot in the World Series by winning the AL East and defeating the Kansas City Royals in the ALDS, followed by a victory over the Cleveland Guardians in the ALCS. Having not won the World Series since 2009, the pressure is on superstars like Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Gerrit Cole. Will they be able to clinch ring No. 28, or is this just another chapter in their storied legacy?
On the other hand, the Dodgers dominated the NL West and bypassed the Wild Card Series. They triumphed over the San Diego Padres in the NLDS and the New York Mets in the NLCS, marking their second pennant this decade and fourth since 2000. With a World Series title in 2020 during the pandemic-shortened season, the Dodgers aim for their eighth franchise championship, having last won it all in a full season back in 1988.
As the countdown to the World Series begins, CBS Sports experts weigh in with their predictions for this exhilarating best-of-seven series.
World Series Predictions: Yankees vs. Dodgers
Odds to win the World Series: Dodgers -130 | Yankees +110
Expert Picks
- R.J. Anderson: “Both teams are among the best in their leagues, boasting a wealth of star talent. On paper, this should be an incredible series. The Yankees feel like the safer pick due to their rotation advantage. While the Dodgers are capable of running effective bullpen games, in a close matchup, I lean towards the team with the stronger rotation. Pick: Yankees in 7 | MVP: Juan Soto (+475)”
- Mike Axisa: “I favor the Dodgers’ depth in offense during October. Despite Freddie Freeman’s injury, they have a robust lineup. The Yankees do have a rotation edge, but the Dodgers’ slightly deeper bullpen and powerful offense may tip the scales. Gerrit Cole is crucial for the Yankees, and if he performs well, they have a shot. Ultimately, I’m predicting the Dodgers in a classic series. Pick: Dodgers in 7 | MVP: Teoscar Hernández (+2500)”
- Kate Feldman: “This matchup is likely my favorite World Series pairing ever. It features star power with players like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani, plus a rich history of competition. While neither team may have the pitching depth to go an extended series, the excitement is palpable. Pick: Yankees in 7 | MVP: Juan Soto (+475)”
- Dayn Perry: “The Yankees’ rotation gives them a significant edge. The Dodgers have solid pitchers, but their bullpen may show signs of fatigue after a heavy workload in the NLCS. This should be a classic battle between two powerhouse teams. Pick: Yankees in 7 | MVP: Gerrit Cole (+3300)”
- Stephen Pianovich: “I predict a shorter series with the Dodgers winning it all. Their lineup is deeper, and I expect Giancarlo Stanton to cool down after his strong performances. A potentially interesting storyline could be Shohei Ohtani pitching out of the bullpen for the Dodgers. Pick: Dodgers in 6 | MVP: Shohei Ohtani (+175)”
- Matt Snyder: “While the Dodgers have had a bumpy road with their rotation, they seem to be on a mission. I can envision a long series, with anything from a sweep to a seven-game thriller possible. The offensive talent on both sides is significant, but I believe the Dodgers will ultimately prevail. Pick: Dodgers in 7 | MVP: Mookie Betts (+650)”
As the World Series approaches, both teams bring a mix of star power, deep lineups, and strategic pitching to the field. Fans can expect a memorable clash between two of MLB’s most storied franchises, each hungry for the title. Will the Yankees end their championship drought, or will the Dodgers reclaim their status as champions? The countdown to the first pitch has begun!