An Exciting Face-Off in the 2024 MLB World Series: Dodgers vs. Yankees
Best of Seven Showdown: What’s at Stake?
The long-awaited 2024 MLB World Series is upon us! This best-of-seven battle will not only decide the champions but also the team that will bask in hometown glory, hoist the coveted trophy, and partake in a jubilant, champagne-filled celebration. The home turf of the NL Champions will host Games 1, 2, 6, and 7 (the latter two if needed).
Stay tuned for daily updates on the latest odds for each game, as well as some handy betting advice on the various prop bets available for each match. Don’t forget to check out the most recent odds for the World Series MVP. All odds are accurate at the time of publishing.
Head-to-Head: Dodgers vs. Yankees Series Odds
The face off is between Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees: Dodgers (-125), Yankees (+105). The series “correct score” possibilities are as follows: Dodgers sweep (+1100), Dodgers in 5 (+600), Dodgers in 6 (+380), Dodgers in 7 (+425) or Yankees sweep (+1500), Yankees in 5 (+700), Yankees in 6 (+500), Yankees in 7 (+475).
Expert Analysis: The 2024 Fall Classic
The stage is set for the final showdown. The 2024 Fall Classic features the two teams with the most impressive records and probable MVPs from their respective leagues. The Yankees cruised through the ALCS in just five games while the Dodgers took six to clinch the NLCS. The shorter series means both teams can set their rotations optimally.
With the 2-3-2 setup, a mere four starters are needed to keep everyone on regular rest. The Dodgers plan on deploying their bullpen in Game 4, a strategy they’ve successfully used against the Padres and Mets. In terms of pitching, both teams seem evenly matched.
Each team boasts a strong, albeit top-heavy lineup. The Dodgers have the home-field advantage, but the 2-3-2 format reduces some of this advantage. The “wild card” here is Dodgers 1B Freddie Freeman. Despite not being at his physical peak, he’s expected to play. This could impact the Dodgers both offensively and defensively. Considering Freeman’s health, I’m leaning towards the Yankees to hoist their 28th World Series flag.
MVP Predictions
Traditionally, the MVP is from the winning team. Aaron Judge (+550) of the Yankees has the highest odds to bag the trophy, but the Dodgers might pitch around him. The three “traditional” Dodgers starting pitchers are all right-handed, and it’s unlikely a lefty specialist will be brought in to face lefty-swinging Juan Soto. Hence, Soto has the platoon advantage, making him my choice for World Series MVP at +600 odds.
Series Prop Bets
During the regular season, the Yankees hit four more homers than the Dodgers. However, the Dodgers have averaged more home runs per game in the postseason. Despite this, I’m backing the Yankees to outscore the Dodgers in home runs (+110).
The Dodgers, influenced by the matchups, lead all playoff teams with 11 stolen bases, with Tommy Edman leading the club with three steals. However, Edman’s odds of stealing at least two bases over the series are not quite tempting at -135. Yankees SS Anthony Volpe, who has had an impressive postseason including a pair of steals, offers more enticing odds. So, let’s bet on Volpe to steal at least two bases in total (+190).
Game Schedule and Odds
Here is the schedule for the series along with the run line, money line and over/under odds for Games 1 and 2:
Game 1: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, Friday, Oct. 25, 8:08 p.m. (FOX)
Run Line: Yankees -1.5 (+165), Dodgers +1.5 (-200)
Money Line: Yankees (Even), Dodgers (-120)
Over/Under: 8.5 runs (Over -110/Under -110)
Game 2: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, Saturday, Oct. 26, 8:08 p.m. (FOX)
The remaining games will take place as follows:
Game 3: Yankee Stadium, New York, Monday, Oct. 28, 8:08 p.m. (FOX)
Game 4: Yankee Stadium, New York, Tuesday, Oct. 29, 8:08 p.m. (FOX)
*Game 5: Yankee Stadium, New York, Wednesday, Oct. 30, 8:08 p.m. (FOX)
*Game 6: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, Friday, Nov. 1, 8:08 p.m. (FOX)
*Game 7: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, Saturday, Nov. 2, 8:08 p.m. (FOX)