The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially named right-hander Jack Flaherty as their Game 1 starter for the 2024 World Series against the New York Yankees’ ace Gerrit Cole. The opener is scheduled for Friday night at Dodger Stadium, and the pitching matchup brings together two Southern California natives in what promises to be an electrifying duel.
Dodgers announce Jack Flaherty as Game 1 starter against Gerrit Cole
Flaherty, 28, joined the Dodgers midseason via a trade from the Detroit Tigers, and while his postseason performances have been mixed, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has placed his faith in the right-hander to open the Fall Classic. Flaherty started Game 1 of the NLCS against the New York Mets and dominated, delivering seven shutout innings and allowing only two hits in a commanding performance. However, his follow-up in Game 5 was a struggle, as he was tagged for eight runs over three innings, a low point in what has been an otherwise promising stint with Los Angeles.
Throughout the playoffs, Flaherty has posted a 7.04 ERA across three starts, a statistic that reveals both his brilliance and vulnerability. His Game 1 NLCS outing against the Mets showcased his potential to overpower opponents, but his Game 5 collapse served as a reminder of his inconsistency. Still, the Dodgers are sticking with Flaherty, whose ability to rise to big moments will be crucial as they seek their second championship since 2020.
“We believe in Jack’s ability to perform at the highest level,” Roberts said during a media call on Tuesday. “He’s shown us that he can dominate in the biggest games, and we have full confidence in him for Game 1.”
AP
The Yankees, meanwhile, will counter with their own star pitcher, Gerrit Cole. Since signing a blockbuster $324 million contract with New York in 2020, Cole has been the backbone of the Yankees’ rotation. He has posted a 3.31 ERA this postseason and delivered two standout performances in the ALDS against the Kansas City Royals. Known for his durability and dominance, Gerrit Cole has long been one of the most feared pitchers in the league. However, despite his regular-season success, Cole has yet to claim a World Series ring. His last appearance in the Fall Classic was in 2019 when he was with the Houston Astros.
Thearon W. Henderson
The Yankees are making their first World Series appearance since 2009, when they won their 27th championship. This season, they secured the AL East title and powered their way through the postseason, defeating the Royals and the Cleveland Guardians to earn their place in the final. The team boasts a powerful lineup, featuring sluggers Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Giancarlo Stanton, all of whom have been instrumental in their playoff run.
For the Dodgers, this will be their fourth World Series appearance since 2017. After finishing the regular season with 98 wins, they overcame the San Diego Padres in the NLDS and the Mets in the NLCS to claim the National League pennant. The team’s star-studded roster includes Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and rookie sensation Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who is slated to start Game 2.
With two powerhouse teams and an exciting pitching duel to open the series, all eyes will be on Dodger Stadium this Friday. The Yankees and Dodgers are set to face off in the World Series for the 12th time in their storied histories, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as both teams chase their next championship.
Amanda Paula is a sports writer with a passion for American football and a keen interest in the NY Yankees. Raised among Americans in Brazil, Mandy's unique cultural background has greatly influenced her career and provided her with a diverse perspective on the world of sports.
Born and raised in Brazil, Amanda developed a deep appreciation for sports at a young age. Growing up in a community with a robust American presence, she was exposed to various sports, but baseball captivated her heart. Inspired by the passion and tactics of the game, Amanda dedicated herself to studying and understanding the intricacies of the sport.
Amanda's love for American sports and soccer led her to pursue a career in sports journalism. She obtained a degree in journalism from a prestigious university, where she honed her skills in writing and reporting. Her studies gave her a solid foundation in journalism ethics, research methodologies, and effective storytelling techniques.
After completing her education, Amanda embarked on her professional journey as a sports writer. Her unique background as a Brazilian immersed in American culture gave her a fresh perspective on American sports.
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