2024 World Series: The Yankees delivered a commanding 11-4 victory in Game 4, showcasing their resilience in front of an electrified Bronx crowd. This win not only marked their first in the World Series but also sent a clear message that they are determined to compete fiercely. The combination of high-pressure situations and strategic exploitation of the Dodgers’ bullpen contributed significantly to this much-needed confidence boost for the Yankees.
After all, this franchise stands as the top team in the American League for a reason.
Here are four key insights from Game 4 in the Bronx.
1. Volpe’s defining Yankees moment
Anthony Volpe experienced a moment of redemption that every young player dreams of. After failing to score from second base on an Austin Wells double, he found himself with the bases loaded in the third inning, trailing 2-1. The Yankees were generating base runners but needed a pivotal hit. With Anthony Rizzo’s pop-out leaving the team in a precarious position, it was evident that Daniel Hudson, the Dodgers’ second reliever, was struggling.
Volpe seized the moment, launching an 89 mph slider from Hudson deep into left field, sending the ball soaring over Teoscar Hernández’s head and into the stands. The 49,354 fans in attendance erupted as the ball cleared the wall, marking the first time they truly celebrated in this World Series. Volpe’s grand slam turned the tide for the Yankees, giving them a lead they would not relinquish. This was not only his first postseason home run but also just his second since August 4. — Deesha Thosar
2. Freddie Freeman shines again
The Yankees faced a version of Freddie Freeman they hadn’t seen before. After a week off, Freeman transformed from a singles hitter into a postseason powerhouse. His teammates had noted his impressive batting practice sessions leading up to the World Series, where he consistently drove balls over the shortstop.
However, the Yankees encountered the version of Freeman that is making history. He hit the first walk-off grand slam in World Series history during Game 1 and followed it up with a solo home run in Game 2. In Game 3, he silenced the Yankee Stadium crowd with a two-run shot and continued his streak in Game 4. Freeman has now set a major-league record by hitting home runs in six consecutive World Series games, adding to his legacy as a clutch performer.
3. Support for Judge emerges
The Yankees needed to secure a victory in this World Series, and it hinged on either Aaron Judge stepping up or his teammates finally providing the support he had given them throughout the season. In Game 4, it was the latter that prevailed, as the lower part of the Yankees’ lineup crafted quality at-bats for the first time in this series. Austin Wells, who had shone during July and August and was a contender for the American League Rookie of the Year, hit a solo home run in the sixth inning, providing crucial insurance. This came after he had already delivered a double in the second inning.
With the Dodgers capable of explosive comebacks, as seen in Game 1, the Yankees were not taking any chances. They unleashed a five-run rally in the eighth inning, with Volpe and Wells again reaching base, setting the stage for Gleyber Torres to hit a three-run homer. Remarkably, the Yankees achieved their first ten runs without significant contributions from Juan Soto or Judge. — Thosar
4. Dodgers’ bullpen strategy falters
The Dodgers faced their fourth bullpen game of the postseason on Tuesday. Their previous bullpen effort, in an elimination game during the NLDS, was a masterclass, with eight pitchers combining for a shutout against the Padres.
However, against the Yankees, the strategy quickly unraveled. Manager Dave Roberts indicated that all pitchers were available, but he required extended performances from rookies Ben Casparius and Knack based on the game’s context. “Every guy will come at a cost going forward,” Roberts remarked. After Volpe’s grand slam, none of the Dodgers’ top relievers, including Michael Kopech, Blake Treinen, and Brusdar Graterol, saw action. Roberts has made many successful decisions this October, but it remains to be seen if holding back his best pitchers for future games will pay off. — Rowan Kavner
