Will There Be a New York Final? A Look at the MLB Playoffs

By Myrek Zastavnyi

The last time New York’s baseball teams faced each other in the World Series was in 2000, when the Yankees defeated the Mets 4-1, securing their place in history. Since then, fans across the city have longed for another Subway Series. The Mets made it back to the final in 2015 but fell short against the Kansas City Royals. Now, in 2024, both New York teams are once again on the verge of a potential showdown as they progress through their respective League Championship Series (LCS).

The Yankees, led by standout pitcher Carlos Rodón, claimed a crucial Game 1 victory against the Cleveland Guardians. Rodón, who faced scrutiny after a shaky start in the previous round, rose to the occasion in Yankee Stadium’s electric atmosphere. He struck out nine batters over six innings, allowing just three hits. Supported by home runs from Juan Soto and Giancarlo Stanton, the Yankees took the opener 5-2, setting the tone for the series.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Rodón’s ability to channel his energy, especially after studying ace Gerrit Cole’s calm demeanor in the ALDS. Rodón’s approach seemed to pay off, as he tied for the fourth-most swings and misses in a postseason game since 2008. “He was incredible,” said Soto. “He kept hitters off balance, and we couldn’t ask for more.”

In the National League, the Mets have shown resilience. After splitting the first two games of the NLCS against the Dodgers, the Mets are proving they belong. One of the standout moments came from Mark Vientos, nicknamed “Swaggy V” for his confident demeanor and bold style. Vientos delivered a grand slam after Dodgers manager Dave Roberts intentionally walked Francisco Lindor to load the bases. On the ninth pitch of the at-bat, Vientos connected on a 95.1 mph fastball, sending it 391 feet over the fence. This slam powered the Mets to a 7-3 victory, tying the series.

For Vientos, this postseason has been a breakout moment. With 11 RBIs so far, he’s matched Daniel Murphy’s 2015 playoff performance and is just one shy of the franchise record shared by Curtis Granderson and John Olerud. At 24, Vientos didn’t even make the Mets’ Opening Day roster, but since his call-up in late May, he’s become a star.

“I took it personally,” Vientos admitted, describing his reaction to Roberts’ decision to walk Lindor. “I wanted to show them what I could do.” His confidence, a trait often seen in top performers, has lifted the Mets in key moments. Teammate J.D. Martinez described it best: “He’s got South Florida grit. He’s not afraid of the moment, and he plays with that edge.”

The Yankees and Mets now find themselves in pivotal positions. Both teams have shown they can rise under pressure, with stars stepping up when needed. The Yankees’ pitching, especially with the form Rodón displayed, and their heavy-hitting lineup, led by Stanton, Judge, and Soto, give them a formidable edge. Meanwhile, the Mets’ clutch performances, like those from Vientos and Lindor, show their capability to swing momentum and win critical games.

If both teams continue their strong performances and clinch their respective series, it would set the stage for the first all-New York final in over two decades. The city has been yearning for another Subway Series, and this year could finally deliver the moment baseball fans in New York have been waiting for. With the Yankees looking to reclaim their championship pedigree and the Mets eager to make up for past shortcomings, an all-New York World Series would not only be a thrilling matchup but a historic chapter in MLB history.

As both teams push through their LCS matchups, all eyes will be on the stars who can make the difference. Will the Yankees’ experienced core lead them to another title shot, or will the Mets’ young talent rise to the occasion? The possibility of another classic New York showdown is closer than ever, and fans across the city are holding their breath for what could be an unforgettable finale.