LOS ANGELES – They’ve met a record 11 times as World Series opponents, but the New York Yankees and the current NL West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers haven’t clashed in October in 42 years.
Maybe this year? At least the stars have aligned this weekend, for their sixth regular season meeting, with the series tied 8-8.
Ahead of the three-game series at Dodger Stadium, here’s a ranking of their best October clashes:
1947 World Series
Yankees 4, Dodgers 3
Bill Bevens’ bid for a Game 4 no-hitter, and to give the Yankees a 3-1 series lead, ended with two out in the ninth, on pinch-hitter Cookie Lavagetto’s game-winning two-run double at Ebbets Field.
Dodger moment: Al Gionfriddo’s potential home run saving catch of Joe DiMaggio’s drive, with two aboard, preserved a three-run lead in Brooklyn’s Game 6 win at Yankee Stadium.
1956 World Series
Yankees 4, Dodgers 3
After Don Larsen’s perfect game at Yankee Stadium in Game 5 put them up 3-2, the Dodgers won 1-0 in 10 innings in Game 6 before Yogi Berra’s two-homer day in a Game 7 clincher at Ebbets Field.
Yankee moment: As her husband leaped into Larsen’s arms in celebration, a pregnant Carmen Berra, in the stands at Yankee Stadium, vowed to name her child Dale, after Dale Mitchell, who struck out to end Game 5.
1955 World Series
Dodgers 4, Yankees 3
Brooklyn’s famous ‘Wait ‘til next year!’ phrase was retired as the Dodgers won their first championship, ending their 0-5 October streak against the Yanks with Johnny Podres’ 2-0 shutout in Game 7.
Dodger moment: After starting the first six games at third base, Jackie Robinson did not play in Game 7, replaced by Don Hoak. The second baseman was Don Zimmer.
1952 World Series
Yankees 4, Dodgers 3