When it comes to MLB rivalries, the Dodgers and Yankees are the GOATs of drama. Spanning decades and thousands of miles, this rivalry has it all—history, heartbreak, and some of the most unforgettable moments in baseball.
From Brooklyn to L.A.
Back in the day, both teams called New York home—the Dodgers repping Brooklyn and the Yankees owning the Bronx. Between 1941 and 1956, these two heavyweights clashed in seven World Series, with the Yankees dominating most of them. Their wins drove Dodgers fans crazy, birthing the famous slogan: “Wait until next year!”
But “next year” came with a twist. In 1958, the Dodgers packed their bags for Los Angeles. The move changed their zip code, but not the heat of their rivalry with the Yankees. Fast forward to 1963, and the Dodgers swept the Yankees in the World Series—the first time a National League team had ever done that. L.A. was officially on the baseball map.
12 World Series Showdowns
The Dodgers and Yankees have faced off in the Fall Classic 12 times—more than any other teams in MLB history. The Yankees have the edge with 8 wins, but the Dodgers’ victories are legendary. Who could forget Fernando Valenzuela leading the Dodgers to glory in 1981? Or Reggie Jackson smashing three homers in 1977? These matchups are the stuff of baseball legend.
In the most recent chapter of this iconic rivalry, the 2024 World Series was about more than just baseball. Before one of the games, the Dodgers held a heartfelt ceremony honoring the memory of Fernando Valenzuela, the beloved Mexican pitcher who passed away earlier that October. The tribute highlighted his enduring impact on the Dodgers, MLB, and fans worldwide, adding an emotional layer to an already epic matchup.
More Than Just Baseball
It’s not just about the wins and losses—it’s about the fans. Dodgers and Yankees fans are as passionate as they come, filling stadiums from L.A. to NYC and bringing the energy every single game. This rivalry reflects the cultural diversity, pride, and sports obsession of two of America’s biggest cities. ⚾
