The world of sports is full of rivalries between teams and baseball is no exception. Recently, the debate arose as to who is the main “enemy” or rival of the Dodgers and it was Max Muncy who took the lead and decided to give a forceful opinion to clarify the debate in MLB.
Muncy, one of the Dodgers greats, is more than an authoritative voice to give his opinion on this debate and was clear in explaining that the Padres contribute a lot to what is known as rivalry, but that in this sport historically only has one rival and that after obviously there may be teams that by history, proximity or even players, can generate a different game, but that will not necessarily be THE rival of the team.
In an interview with Foul Territory, Max Muncy gave his opinion on the subject of rivalries. “For me, my personal opinion, you only have one rival. I don’t like it when people say you have rivals. I just think if you have a rival, you know, it’s your counterpart, and that’s always going to be the Giants”.
Muncy’s opinion is based on the history and achievements of both teams. Both the Dodgers and Giants have eight World Series titles to their name and the Dodgers player also explained that collective heritage is what makes these types of rivalries.
History between the Dodgers and Giants
The rivalry between the two teams began with their origins in New York City, as even before moving to California there were already signs of a strong competition. The rivalry between the two teams is strengthened by history in terms of sporting triumphs and achievements, but also in the culture and what they generate off the field in the fans.
In terms of the teams’ records, they are fairly evenly matched in some respects. For example, the Dodgers have 25 National League pennants to the Giants’ 23, both are tied for World Series titles and when it comes to making a difference, the Dodgers have won the National League West 22 times to the Giants’ nine, however, the Giants have more head-to-head wins.
The Dodgers’ other rivals
Sport in general evolves and with it, throughout history, new teams or squads appear that achieve changes in sport. This is why there are teams that over time improve and generate different rivalries with others that are not necessarily linked to the history of each one.
That is why this debate arises, since Muncy himself explained that the Padres are a respectable team and that they are part of important rivals, but that they are not the Dodgers’ classic rival. The team has had memorable games against the Padres themselves or also the Yankees and although for Muncy there is only one, the fans will continue to enjoy to the fullest of games against tough rivals and that generate something that goes beyond the field of play.
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