Dodgers vs. Yankees: 2024 World Series Preview: Analyzing Key Matchups & Team Strengths | 35

Welcome back to TableSetters, your go-to podcast for all things baseball! Steve and Devin are here, diving deep into the thrilling World Series matchup between the Yankees and Dodgers, but first, we want to take a moment to honor the late Fernando Valenzuela. Just days before the World Series, the legendary pitcher passed away at the age of 63. His impact on baseball, especially during his iconic run with the Dodgers in 1981, is immeasurable. Valenzuela not only won the Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in that season but also became a cultural icon, particularly for the Latino community. 

As we reflect on this somber news, we’ll remember Valenzuela’s distinctive delivery and his remarkable contributions to the game. His passing serves as a poignant reminder of the rich history and legacy that intertwines with the World Series, especially as the Dodgers prepare to face the Yankees again—an event that he was a significant part of in the past.

Now, shifting gears back to the World Series, we’ll dive into the excitement surrounding this historic matchup. The Yankees and Dodgers are clashing in the Fall Classic for the first time in 43 years, and we’ll break down what makes this series so significant.

We’ll start with the **pitching matchups**: Gerrit Cole is set to start for the Yankees, bringing postseason experience with him. We’ll discuss his recent performance and how he can lead the Yankees to victory. The Dodgers are navigating injury challenges with key players like Clayton Kershaw, and we’ll examine their rotation options.

**Star players** like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani are poised to make headlines, and we’ll highlight their postseason journeys as they aim for their first championship rings. We’ll also cover the latest injury updates and their implications for both teams.

As we analyze the **pressure on these stars**, we’ll discuss what’s at stake for Judge and Ohtani in this high-stakes moment.

Next, we’ll turn our focus to the Dodgers’ bullpen, which has been crucial to their success this postseason. Key performers like Evan Phillips and Blake Treinen have stepped up in critical situations, showcasing the depth of their pitching staff.

In a heartfelt segment, Devin will take a moment to **eulogize the special season for the New York Mets**. After a rollercoaster year filled with ups and downs, Devin will reflect on the team's promising potential and what fans can look forward to in the future.

We’ll also touch on the hypothetical move of the Chicago White Sox to Nashville, discussing the challenges and opportunities this situation presents for both the team and the city.

Finally, we’ll wrap up with a look at the Cleveland Guardians and their successful season under first-year manager Stephen Vogt, emphasizing their goals for 2025.

And hey, remember to follow us on Instagram and Twitter @tablesetterspod for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive fan polls. We want to hear from you!

So grab your popcorn and settle in as we ignite the conversation only on TableSetters, where every inning brings a new story, and every pitch sets the stage for baseball's greatest moments. Let's play ball!