NL East Rivalry
The 2023 MLB season kicks off with a bang as two of the most storied rivals in baseball, the New York Mets and Atlanta Braves, face off on Opening Day. The Mets, fresh off their thrilling NL East title run in 2022, will host the defending World Series champions in what promises to be an electric atmosphere at Citi Field. With both teams boasting star-studded rosters, this game has all the makings of a classic.
Red Sox-Yankees Rematch
Another highly anticipated Opening Day matchup will take place at Yankee Stadium, where the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees will renew their historic rivalry. These two legendary franchises will face each other for the first time since their thrilling AL Wild Card Game last October, which saw the Red Sox advance with a dramatic walk-off home run. Expect a sold-out crowd and a raucous atmosphere as these two bitter rivals clash once again.
Baz on the Mound
One of the most intriguing storylines on Opening Day will be the debut of Shane Baz as the Tampa Bay Rays’ starting pitcher. The 23-year-old flamethrower is one of the most promising young pitchers in the game and will be tasked with leading the Rays’ rotation in 2023. Baz will face off against the Pittsburgh Pirates in what promises to be a captivating pitching duel.
- The Mets will be led by reigning NL Cy Young winner Max Scherzer, while the Braves will counter with Spencer Strider.
- The Red Sox and Yankees will both be without their star shortstops, as Xander Bogaerts and Carlos Correa are both now members of the San Diego Padres.
- Baz will be making his first Opening Day start in his young career, while the Pirates will start veteran right-hander JT Brubaker.
With the return of baseball’s biggest stars, exhilarating rivalries, and promising young players, Opening Day 2023 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event.
Kind regards Z. McDowell.
