Reggie Jackson on Yankees-Dodgers World Series Rivalry: ‘We Were Those Nasty Guys from New York’

The New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers, two of the most iconic franchises in Major League Baseball, are set to face off in the World Series starting on Friday night. This matchup marks the first time the two teams have met in the Fall Classic since 1981, when the Dodgers won the title in six games, with Pedro Guerrero, Ron Cey, and Steve Yeager sharing World Series MVP honors.

Reggie Jackson, a Hall of Famer and former Yankees player, reflected on the rivalry in an interview with USA Today. Jackson expressed surprise that it has taken so long for the Yankees and Dodgers to meet again in the World Series. “We were just those nasty guys from New York, mean and tough,” he said, highlighting the intense rivalry and the significance of wearing the Yankees’ pinstripes.

Jackson’s own legacy in the World Series is notable, particularly his performance in the 1977 World Series against the Dodgers. In Game 6, he hit three home runs on three consecutive swings, earning him the nickname “Mr. October.” This feat remains one of the most iconic moments in baseball history and has never been repeated in a World Series game.

Despite his close relationship with Dodgers team owner Pete O'Malley, Jackson has stated he is pulling for the Yankees in the 2024 World Series. The series is anticipated to be a clash of two of the most iconic franchises in sports, representing the cultural and economic hubs of Los Angeles and New York.

Game 1 of the World Series is scheduled for Friday night in Los Angeles at 8:08 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on FOX. Fans are eagerly anticipating the matchup, which promises to be a highlight of the baseball season.