Whenever the Dodgers and New York Yankees face off, there’s a little more buzz in the air. Not only are these two of the most storied franchises in MLB history, but they have personal history as well. These two teams have met in the World Series 11 times, the most between any two teams, with the Yankees holding an 8-3 record.
This year, both teams enter the series representing the best baseball has to offer. The Yankees currently have the best record in baseball and the Dodgers have the second-best record in the National League.
After an extra innings slog on Friday night, Dodgers left-fielder Teoscar Hernández spoke with the media. He commented on the game’s atmosphere and echoed what everyone watching the game felt,
‘Tonight felt different,’ Hernandez said, voicing what most of the Dodgers tried to downplay. ‘I’ve been in a wild-card game and it’s a little different. But it felt like a playoff game today. I like that. I like to play in these atmospheres and try to keep going and do my best.’
Per Teoscar Hernández via O.C. Register
Amidst the superstar signings of the offseason, one could argue Hernández slid under the radar. On just a one-year deal, the Dodgers brought in the 31-year-old as an x-factor for this lineup.
First, and foremost, he mashes left-handed pitching – something that past Dodger teams struggled to do. Secondly, he brings some fire and personality to a lineup that can seem too business-like.
Friday night, Hernández stepped up in the biggest moment. He drove in the Dodgers’ only two runs with his double in the top of the 11th. Los Angeles would secure the victory in the bottom half of the inning 2-1.
If he likes playing when the lights are brightest, then he’s with the right club. The Dodgers are destined to have plenty more big moments for him to feed off.