Yankees Stay Alive in World Series
The New York Yankees managed to avoid a sweep in the World Series by defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers 11-4 in Game 4. This victory was crucial as the Yankees were down 3-0 in the series. Anthony Volpe played a pivotal role by hitting a grand slam in the third inning, giving the Yankees a lead they maintained throughout the game. Gleyber Torres also contributed significantly with a three-run homer during a five-run eighth inning. Despite the win, the Dodgers still lead the series 3-1.
Game Highlights and Key Performances
In Game 4, Freddie Freeman continued his impressive streak by hitting a two-run home run for the Dodgers in the first inning. This marked his sixth consecutive World Series game with a homer, dating back to 2021. For the Yankees, Austin Wells hit a solo home run in the sixth inning, while Aaron Judge, who has struggled this postseason, drove in his first run of the series with an RBI single. The Yankees’ pitching saw Luis Gil start the game, allowing four runs over four innings. The Dodgers used a bullpen game strategy, with Daniel Hudson taking the loss after giving up Volpe’s grand slam.
Upcoming Game 5 in the Bronx
Game 5 is set for Wednesday in the Bronx, with Gerrit Cole starting for the Yankees against Jack Flaherty for the Dodgers. The Yankees face a daunting task as no team has ever come back from an 0-3 deficit to win a World Series. However, Torres expressed confidence in Cole’s ability to deliver a strong performance. The Yankees hope to extend the series and keep their championship dreams alive.
World Series Ticket Prices and Fan Interest
With the Yankees down 3-0, ticket prices for the World Series in New York have cooled. Initially, prices were high, with projections of breaking StubHub records. However, as the Yankees faced potential elimination, prices dropped. For Game 4, average ticket prices on StubHub fell by nine percent from Monday to Tuesday. The cheapest single tickets were around $500, a nearly 20% drop from Monday’s starting prices. Despite the lower general admission prices, demand for higher-end seats remained strong. Sales for Games 3 through 5 in New York increased by 30% over the weekend, likely due to increased demand with fewer tickets available.
Gerrit Cole’s Contract Situation
In other news, Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole opted out of his contract, not to enter free agency, but to force the Yankees to add an additional year to his deal. An alternative proposal suggests redoing Cole’s contract for five years at $40 million per year with deferred money to save cap space for other signings like Juan Soto. The Yankees have until Sunday evening to decide whether to extend Cole’s contract by one year at $36 million or let him become a free agent.
Yankees’ Offseason Plans and Rumors
As the offseason approaches, the Yankees face several decisions. They are dealing with a vacancy at first base after declining Anthony Rizzo’s 2025 club option. The decision on how to fill this position may depend on the outcome of free-agent superstar Juan Soto’s decision. Pete Alonso, a long-time Mets first baseman, is considered a “prime backup plan” if the Yankees cannot re-sign Soto. The Yankees are also expected to seek another impact bat to support Soto and Judge offensively.
Dodgers Win the World Series
Despite the Yankees’ efforts, the Dodgers won the World Series in five games, clinching the title with a 7-6 victory in Game 5. The Dodgers overcame a 5-0 deficit, scoring five runs in the fifth inning due to Yankees’ fielding errors. Freddie Freeman was named World Series MVP, hitting four home runs and driving in 12 runs across five games. This victory marks the Dodgers’ second World Series title in the last five years.
Looking Ahead
The Yankees will need to regroup and focus on the upcoming offseason. With several key players potentially leaving and the need to strengthen their lineup, the team faces significant challenges. However, with strategic signings and a focus on building a competitive roster, the Yankees aim to return stronger next season. Fans will be watching closely as the team navigates these crucial decisions in the coming months.
