As the New York Yankees march into the 2024 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, baseball fans and analysts alike are buzzing over an unexpected factor in the Yankees’ success: their now-infamous cotton turtlenecks. But could this quirky good-luck charm help them overcome their slight underdog status and bring home their 28th championship? The answer lies not only in their superstitions but also in their talent, team dynamics, and the high-pressure atmosphere of the World Series.
A New York Tradition: Iconic Turtlenecks
Every fall, baseball enters its most dramatic phase, and this year, the Yankees have turned to an unorthodox tradition. As temperatures dropped, the Yankees began sporting classic cotton turtlenecks—fashion staples that harken back to the team’s iconic 1990s dynasty. These aren’t just a nostalgic nod to better days, though. The turtlenecks have, surprisingly, taken on a life of their own, becoming a good-luck charm in their playoff run .
These turtlenecks symbolize not just warmth, but the grit and resilience needed to win championships. From Aaron Judge to Anthony Volpe, players have embraced the look, and the narrative has only grown as the Yankees have stormed through the playoffs, losing just twice in October . Even when their bats have cooled at moments, such as the rough collective postseason batting average of several stars, the team has continued to find ways to win. Volpe, in particular, has shone brightly, proving that sometimes, confidence and comfort can be as important as talent.
Talent Over Superstition
As fun as the turtleneck storyline is, it’s not the fabric keeping the Yankees in the championship conversation. It’s the raw power of their star players. Aaron Judge, a perennial MVP contender, has led the Yankees all season, notching 58 home runs and 144 RBIs to set the tone for the offense . Alongside Judge, Juan Soto has had a stellar year, contributing 41 home runs and clutch performances throughout the postseason .
In the postseason, pitching becomes more important than ever, and the Yankees’ rotation has held up under pressure. Gerrit Cole, their ace, has been dominant, shutting down opponents with a blend of high velocity and pinpoint accuracy. The bullpen has also been a key factor, with several pitchers delivering crucial outs in high-leverage situations .
These players, backed by strong pitching, are the core reasons why the Yankees are in the World Series. The turtlenecks may give them a psychological edge, but it’s their execution on the field that will decide the series.
The Pressure of Playing as Underdogs
Interestingly, the Yankees find themselves in a rare position—they are entering the World Series as underdogs. Historically, the Bronx Bombers have often been the favorites, with their extensive playoff experience and historic dominance. However, the Los Angeles Dodgers, led by a stacked roster featuring the likes of Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts, have been strong contenders throughout the season . They hold a slight edge in the betting odds and are known for their explosive offense.
But the Yankees thrive in situations like this. Despite being underdogs, they’ve posted an impressive record when playing in this role, winning 74% of their games when not favored. They know how to manage pressure, and this experience is crucial in the tension-filled moments of a World Series .
Playing at Dodger Stadium for the first two games, the Yankees will face a hostile crowd and a talented lineup. But when the series shifts back to the Bronx for Games 3-5, the Yankees will have the advantage of playing in front of their passionate home fans. The atmosphere at Yankee Stadium is sure to be electric, and that kind of support can swing the momentum of the series in their favor.
The X-Factor: Confidence and Grit
The World Series is about more than just talent—it’s about grit, resilience, and the ability to handle high-stakes moments. For the Yankees, this is where the turtlenecks and their confidence come into play. While the cotton neckwear might seem trivial, it represents a larger mindset: the idea that looking good, feeling good, and playing good are all connected.
It’s easy to dismiss this as a fun story, but psychology plays a significant role in sports. Athletes often rely on rituals and routines to keep themselves grounded amid the pressure. For the Yankees, the turtlenecks have come to symbolize their unity and focus. And in a sport where momentum can shift on a single pitch, any mental edge can be the difference between winning and losing.
If the Yankees can channel this confidence and continue playing with the same resilience they’ve shown throughout October, they’ll have every chance to win the series. Aaron Judge, Anthony Volpe, and the rest of the squad have proven they have what it takes to handle adversity, and the World Series will be the ultimate test of their resolve.
Will the Yankees Capture Their 28th Title?
The path to the Yankees’ 28th championship is filled with challenges. The Dodgers are an elite team, and the Yankees will need to play their best baseball to win. But they’ve been here before. They’ve faced adversity, battled through injuries, and found ways to win when the odds were against them.
And while their turtlenecks may be an odd subplot in the larger story, they are also a reflection of this team’s spirit. The Yankees have embraced the idea that confidence and camaraderie can push them to greater heights. Whether they win or lose, they’ve already shown that they have the heart of champions.
Still, the Yankees’ fans and players won’t be satisfied with anything less than another ring. The Dodgers may be favored, but don’t count the Yankees out. If they can maintain their focus, get key performances from their stars, and continue their uncanny ability to find ways to win, there’s a good chance they’ll be celebrating their 28th championship soon.
As Game 1 begins in Los Angeles, one thing is certain: the Yankees are ready, turtlenecks and all. The question remains—will they have the final word on baseball’s biggest stage?
