World Series Game 3 Analysis: Dodgers vs. Yankees Breakdown & Best Bets
Introduction
Game 3 of the MLB World Series heads to Yankee Stadium, with the Dodgers holding a 2-0 lead over the Yankees. The game will be crucial for New York as they face a must-win situation to keep the series competitive. This article breaks down the first two games, examines key player performances, pitching strategies, and provides best bets and betting insights for Game 3.
Game 1 & 2 Recap: Dodgers’ Dominance and Yankees’ Struggles
Freeman’s Game 1 Grand Slam
In Game 1, the Yankees held a narrow 3-2 lead into extra innings. However, a critical decision to walk Mookie Betts and pitch to Freddie Freeman—a move to avoid Betts’ known hitting power—led to a walk-off grand slam, resulting in a Dodgers 6-3 victory. Despite Yankees’ pitcher Nestor Cortes’ valiant attempt in relief, it marked a questionable bullpen management moment.
Dodgers’ Standout Pitching in Game 2
In Game 2, Dodgers pitcher Yamamoto showcased exceptional control, pitching six innings and allowing only one run with four strikeouts. Supporting him were Dodgers sluggers Tommy Edman and Teoscar Hernandez, who each hit homers, securing a 4-2 win. Garrett Cole pitched strongly for the Yankees in Game 1 but has seen little offensive support from New York’s lineup. Yankees star Aaron Judge has yet to make a significant impact, which has left New York’s bullpen carrying much of the weight.
Game 3 Preview: Yankees’ Urgent Need for Offense
Yankee Stadium’s Hitter-Friendly Field
With Game 3 taking place in Yankee Stadium, a well-known hitter’s park, Munaf Manji and Griffin Warner predict a higher-scoring game as hitters benefit from shorter fences. The Yankees, needing a win to avoid a 3-0 deficit, will look to Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton to step up and generate offense against a Dodgers lineup that has consistently scored four or more runs per game this postseason.
Pitching Matchup
Dodgers’ Walker Buehler and Yankees’ Clark Schmidt will start in Game 3. Buehler has shown strength but may be limited by previous injuries, which could make the Dodgers’ bullpen a critical factor. Schmidt, who has been inconsistent in recent playoff games, may rely heavily on Yankees’ relievers to keep the game competitive, a strategy that places additional strain on New York’s bullpen depth.
Betting Insights and Key Injuries
Ohtani’s Injury Impact on Dodgers
Shohei Ohtani, who sustained a partial shoulder dislocation in Game 2, is expected to play in Game 3, but his condition remains a variable in betting markets. If Ohtani’s performance is affected, it could disrupt the Dodgers’ lineup, affecting pitches thrown to Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. Bettors are advised to monitor Ohtani’s status, as any absence would shift the odds in favor of the Yankees.
Market Trends and Betting Odds
Market sentiment is trending towards the Yankees, likely due to their must-win position. However, Griffin and Munaf point out that the Dodgers’ offensive consistency and bullpen strength offer significant advantages. The over/under is set at 8.5 runs, with both hosts suggesting the over given the potential bullpen reliance and Yankee Stadium’s hitter-friendly dimensions.
Best Bets for Game 3
1. Dodgers Over 3.5 Runs
Munaf recommends the Dodgers team total over 3.5 runs, backed by the team’s postseason record of scoring four or more runs in nearly every game. Consistent performance from key hitters, including Tommy Edman and Max Muncy, supports this choice.
2. Dodgers Moneyline (+127)
Griffin favors the Dodgers on the moneyline, noting their bullpen’s depth and consistent offensive production. With Buehler’s reliable pitching and strong lineup, the Dodgers have favorable odds, especially given Yankees’ pressure in a must-win scenario.
Conclusion
As Game 3 unfolds, the Dodgers carry their momentum from the first two wins and maintain an edge with consistent offensive production and bullpen strength. The Yankees, meanwhile, face the critical challenge of producing runs and relying on their bullpen to keep up with LA’s offensive depth. If New York fails to capitalize on their home field advantage, the Dodgers are well-positioned to secure a 3-0 lead.