The wait is finally over. If you’ve been refreshing your feed wondering when does 2024 world series start, the answer is Friday, October 25, 2024. It’s the kind of date that makes any baseball purist’s heart beat a little faster. This year isn't just another postseason; it’s a heavyweight clash between two of the most iconic franchises in sports history: the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees.
Honestly, it feels like we've been waiting for this matchup for decades. Probably because we have. It has been 43 years since these two teams faced off in the Fall Classic. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just here for the atmosphere, knowing the schedule is basically the only way to ensure you don't miss a single pitch of what's shaping up to be an all-timer.
When Does 2024 World Series Start and Where Is It?
Everything kicks off at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. Because the Dodgers finished with a better regular-season record (98-64) than the Yankees (94-68), they get the home-field advantage. That means the first two games are in the bright California sun—or under the stadium lights—before the series shifts across the country.
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The start time for every single game is set for 8:08 PM ET. Consistency is nice, right? No guessing whether it's an afternoon game or a late-night thriller. If you're on the West Coast, you’re looking at a 5:08 PM PT first pitch.
Here is how the dates actually shake out:
- Game 1: Friday, Oct. 25 at Dodger Stadium
- Game 2: Saturday, Oct. 26 at Dodger Stadium
- Travel Day: Sunday, Oct. 27 (No game)
- Game 3: Monday, Oct. 28 at Yankee Stadium
- Game 4: Tuesday, Oct. 29 at Yankee Stadium
- Game 5 (If needed): Wednesday, Oct. 30 at Yankee Stadium
If things get really wild and we go to Game 6 or 7, the teams fly back to Los Angeles. Those games would happen on Friday, Nov. 1, and Saturday, Nov. 2.
Why the Dates Almost Changed
There was actually a bit of a twist this year. Major League Baseball announced that if both the ALCS and NLCS had ended early (by October 19), the World Series would have moved up to October 22. It didn't happen. The Dodgers and Mets pushed their series to six games, which locked in the October 25 start date. It’s a bit of a relief for the players, honestly. A few extra days of rest for guys like Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge can only be a good thing for the quality of play.
The Stars Headlining the Show
When you talk about when does 2024 world series start, you also have to talk about who is showing up. This series is basically a marketing executive's dream come true. You have Shohei Ohtani, who just finished a historic 50-50 season, making his first-ever World Series appearance. Then you have Aaron Judge, the AL home run king, looking to bring a title back to the Bronx for the first time since 2009.
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It’s not just them, though. You’ve got Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, Giancarlo Stanton, and Juan Soto. These are names that will be in the Hall of Fame one day. Seeing them all on one field at the same time? It’s rare.
Freddie Freeman is a name to watch closely. Even with a badly sprained ankle that kept him out of some NLCS action, he's expected to be in the lineup for Game 1. That kind of grit is what the World Series is all about. On the Yankees' side, Giancarlo Stanton has been on an absolute tear, winning the ALCS MVP. He’s hitting balls so hard they practically scream.
How to Watch the 2024 World Series
If you’re watching in the United States, FOX is your home for the entire series. They’ve been doing this for 27 years now, so they know the drill. Joe Davis and John Smoltz will be on the call. If you prefer to stream, you can catch it on the FOX Sports app, though you’ll need a cable login for that.
For those who want a more "old school" experience, ESPN Radio provides national coverage for every game. There’s something special about listening to a World Series game on the radio while you’re doing something else—it just feels like autumn.
What Most People Get Wrong About the Schedule
One thing people often forget is the "if necessary" part of the schedule. Everyone wants a Game 7, but it’s never guaranteed. In 2023, the Rangers took care of the Diamondbacks in just five games. While this Dodgers-Yankees matchup feels like it's destined to go the distance, baseball is weird. One dominant pitching performance or a couple of errors can end a series much faster than anyone expects.
Also, keep an eye on the weather in New York for Games 3, 4, and 5. Late October in the Bronx can get chilly. It’s a huge contrast to the weather in LA. Pitchers often struggle with their grip when it’s cold, and the ball doesn’t travel as far. These little details are what decide championships.
Key Factors for the Series
- The Bullpens: Both teams have had to lean heavily on their relievers to get here. Who has the freshest arms by Game 3?
- The Leadoff Battle: Ohtani vs. Torres. Setting the tone in the first inning is massive.
- Starting Pitching Depth: The Dodgers have been creative with "bullpen games," while the Yankees have a more traditional rotation led by Gerrit Cole.
Final Logistics for Fans
If you’re lucky enough to have tickets, double-check those gate opening times. For Game 1 in Los Angeles, expect the atmosphere to be electric hours before the 8:08 PM ET (5:08 PM local) start. Security will be tight, and traffic around Chavez Ravine is notoriously brutal. Give yourself way more time than you think you need.
For the rest of us watching from the couch, make sure your snacks are ready by 8:00 PM. The pre-game ceremonies, including the national anthem and ceremonial first pitches, are usually worth watching. There’s a good chance we see some legendary former players from both franchises making appearances.
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Knowing when does 2024 world series start is just the beginning. Once that first pitch is thrown on Friday night, the regular season records don't matter anymore. It’s all about who can handle the pressure of the brightest lights in the sport.
To make sure you're ready for the first pitch, verify your local channel listings for FOX or ensure your streaming subscription is active. If you are planning a watch party, the travel day on Sunday, October 27, is the perfect gap to restock before the series heads to New York for Game 3 on Monday. Keep an eye on the official MLB app for any last-minute roster changes or weather updates that might shift the pre-game timeline.