Dodgers vs. Yankees: World Series Game 3 Preview
As the Los Angeles Dodgers take a commanding lead in the 2024 World Series, spirits are high in Southern California. Following their impressive 4-2 victory in Game 2, the Dodgers are now set to shift the series to the Bronx, where they will face off against the New York Yankees. With Los Angeles leading the series two games to none, the stakes are elevated as both teams prepare for what has become a pivotal Game 3.
Game 2 Recap: Dodgers Dominate
In Game 2, Yoshinobu Yamamoto showcased his pitching prowess, allowing just one run over 6.1 innings — a performance that left Yankees hitters grappling for solutions. The offensive fireworks were ignited by Freddie Freeman and Teoscar Hernandez, who smacked back-to-back home runs in the bottom of the third inning, turning the tide firmly in favor of the Dodgers. Tommy Edman, the NLCS MVP, launched a home run of his own, marking his second of the postseason, while Juan Soto and Giancarlo Stanton accounted for the Yankees’ two runs, however their efforts fell short against a resilient Dodgers lineup.
On the Yankees’ side, Carlos Rodon struggled significantly, yielding four runs in just 3.1 innings, compounded by Aaron Judge’s woeful performance at the plate, where he struck out three times. With the series now leaning heavily toward the Dodgers, they have become the favorites to win it all, sitting at odds of -450, while the Yankees sit at +340.
Injury Report: Ohtani Update
An injury scare looms for the Dodgers as star player Shohei Ohtani exited Game 2 with a shoulder injury. However, reports suggest he is expected to be back in the lineup for Game 3, which will be crucial as the Dodgers aim to extend their series lead.
Game 3 Preview: Key Matchups
Yankees starter Clarke Schmidt is facing what can be described as a must-win situation in the Bronx. He’ll oppose Walker Buehler for the Dodgers, the latter known for his resilience and critical playoff performances despite a lackluster start to this postseason.
Pitching Matchup:
- Walker Buehler (Dodgers): With a playoff ERA of 6.00 after two starts, Buehler will need to elevate his game if the Dodgers are to maintain their series momentum.
- Clarke Schmidt (Yankees): Posting a solid 3.86 ERA over two playoff starts, Schmidt will aim to keep the potent Dodgers lineup at bay when he takes the mound.
Game Details
- Date: Monday, October 28, 2024
- Time: 8:08 PM ET
- Venue: Yankee Stadium, New York, NY
- TV/Streaming: Live on FOX
Betting Insights and Trends
As both teams prepare for Game 3, the betting landscape offers intriguing insights:
- Moneyline: Yankees -145, Dodgers +120
- Spread: Yankees -1.5 (+145), Dodgers +1.5 (-175)
- Total Runs: 8.5
Trends of note include Aaron Judge’s ongoing struggles in the postseason, hitting a mere .199 in his career with the most games played without significant output. Coupled with the Yankees’ recently solid home record and the Dodgers’ overall strong performance this postseason, Game 3 promises to be an intense matchup.
Key Players to Watch
Expect the eyes to be on:
- Freddie Freeman: Hot off his performance in Game 2, Freeman is a crucial figure in the Dodgers’ lineup who can change the game with his bat.
- Giancarlo Stanton: Having driven in 14 runs this postseason, Stanton will look to deliver when the Yankees need it most.
Final Thoughts and Predictions
Analysis and projections show a cautious favor toward the Dodgers in Game 3, especially considering Schmidt’s home advantage and the Yankees’ need to rally for a win. Our model suggests betting on the Dodgers on the moneyline, as well as leaning toward the over for total runs.
As the series progresses into the Bronx, fans are in for an electrifying atmosphere packed with high stakes and outstanding baseball talent. The MLB postseason continues to captivate, and Game 3 will undoubtedly be another chapter in this historic rivalry.
Remember, bet responsibly, and let’s see how this epic clash unfolds.