It's been 43 years since the Dodgers and Yankees last faced each other in the World Series, and this year's matchup is shaping up to be a big one. The excitement is palpable, even for 8-year-old Charlie Freeman, son of Los Angeles first baseman Freddie Freeman. Charlie is so eager for the Series to start that he's been watching YouTube videos about the rivalry. The Dodgers and Yankees are two of the most popular and well-supported teams globally. This Series will feature five MVPs, a first in decades, including the Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Mookie Betts, and the Yankees' Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton. It's also the first time since 1971 that a World Series will have two 50-home run hitters, Judge (58) and Ohtani (54).

The rivalry dates back to 1941, when the Dodgers were in Brooklyn and the Yankees were chasing their fifth title in six years. This isn't just any World Series; it's Broadway vs. Hollywood, a star-studded event drawing massive attention. The League Championship Series had the highest U. S. TV ratings since 2017, and the Dodgers' popularity in Japan, thanks to Ohtani, has boosted viewership even more.

Players are practicing in warm weather, with Dodger Stadium's seats gleaming in blue, yellow, light orange, and sea foam green. Freddie Freeman, despite a bad ankle, is determined to play in the opener. The Dodgers are seeking their eighth title and second in five years, while the Yankees are back in the World Series for the first time since 2009. For both teams, this is where the real fun begins.

Managers Dave Roberts of the Dodgers and Aaron Boone of the Yankees have a history that goes back to their college days. Roberts and Boone faced each other in a baseball game in 1992, with Roberts' UCLA Bruins beating Boone's Southern California Trojans. Their friendly rivalry continues today, with text messages and emojis exchanged between them.

Jack Flaherty, the Dodgers' starting pitcher, and Gerrit Cole, the Yankees' starting pitcher, also have a connection. They were high school teammates and have stayed friends over the years. This World Series is not just a competition but also a reunion of sorts for these players.

The Yankees owner, Hal Steinbrenner, was just 7 years old when his father, George, led the team to a World Series win in 1977. He remembers Reggie Jackson's three home runs and the final out that clinched the title. It was a moment of pandemonium and joy for the Yankees and their fans.

The Dodgers and Yankees Face Off in a Hotly Anticipated World Series

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