The Red Sox, after winning their first title in 86 years in 2004, are now trying for their fourth World Series crown in 15 seasons. Boston won a franchise-record 108 games to claim their third straight AL East title, then beat two 100-win teams this October, the wild-card Yankees in the Division Series (3-1) and the defending world champion Astros in the ALCS (4-1). The Dodgers earned their sixth consecutive NL West title during the regular season, then knocked off the East champ Braves in the NLDS (3-1) and Central champ Brewers in the NLCS (4-3). Los Angeles is making its second straight trip to the World Series for the fifth time in franchise history and 20th appearance overall.
HISTORY LESSON
The Red Sox and Dodgers did not play each other this year, but Boston owns an 8-7 all-time edge in the regular season, dating to 2002. The two teams have met just once before in the World Series _ sort of. In 1916, Boston beat the Dodgers' franchise, then known as the Brooklyn Robins, in five games.
DON'T I KNOW YOU?
Despite never crossing paths in October, the Red Sox and Dodgers do share a memorable playoff moment. L.A. manager Dave Roberts will forever be a Boston favorite for sparking the '04 comeback against the Yankees, with his ninth-inning steal of second base in Game 4 of the ALCS.
