People were not happy about the 2023 World Series unless you lived in Arlington Texas or Phoenix Arizona. Many fans tuned out and it was most likely bad for baseball.

As a Rangers fans I enjoyed the heck out of the Rangers first ever World Series Championship, but even I know that it was not very interesting to anyone else outside of my demographic.

I believe that a Yankees vs. Dodgers World Series would be highly beneficial for baseball for several reasons:

1. Historic Rivalry
The Yankees and Dodgers have a storied rivalry, dating back to their multiple matchups in the World Series, especially when the Dodgers were based in Brooklyn. They faced each other 11 times in the Fall Classic, with the Yankees historically dominating, but the Dodgers earning memorable victories, including in 1955 and 1981. A rekindling of this rivalry brings historical weight that appeals to both older fans and those familiar with the legacy.

2. Two Iconic Franchises
As much as baseball is a regional game, both teams are global brands and widely recognized, even outside baseball circles. They have large fan bases that stretch far beyond their home cities of New York and Los Angeles, meaning that this matchup would likely draw strong national and international interest.

3. Large Markets = High Ratings
New York and Los Angeles are the two largest media markets in the U.S. A series between the Yankees and Dodgers would attract substantial viewership from these key cities, likely boosting TV ratings. This broadens baseball’s reach and can make casual fans or even non-fans tune in, given the prominence of these cities in American culture.

4. Star Power
Both teams are often stacked with superstar talent, which helps draw attention. Players like Shoei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, Aaron Judge, and Gerrit Cole bring appeal not only to hardcore baseball fans but also to casual viewers who recognize big names. The potential for marquee matchups between pitchers and sluggers would add intrigue to every game.

5. Big Narratives and Drama
The media would feast on the potential storylines—east coast vs. west coast, tradition vs. modernity, the Yankees’ quest for another championship vs. the Dodgers trying to build on their recent success. Narratives like these tend to captivate broader audiences.

6. Boost to Baseball’s Image
Having two of the most successful and recognized franchises in a World Series generates buzz and helps elevate baseball’s profile in an era where the sport is competing for attention with other major leagues like the NFL and NBA.

While fans of smaller-market teams like the Rangers or Diamondbacks may feel overshadowed, a Yankees-Dodgers World Series brings financial and cultural benefits to Major League Baseball.

And what is good for baseball is good for all of our teams. We just don’t want to admit it most of the time.