PICTURE: Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and Yankees’ Aaron Boone share a heartfelt embrace in the tunnel after intense World Series showdown
Yankees manager Aaron Boone and his Dodgers counterpart Dave Roberts did a commendable job in leading their two teams to the World Series.
While the Dodgers emerged on top, the two skippers shared a little hug on the sides as a mark of respect. In a photo circulating on X (formerly Twitter) the two clubhouse leaders were seen sharing a moment in the quiet in the Yankee Stadium tunnel.
There were question marks about both Dave Roberts and Aaron Boone's leadership after the 2023 season. The Dodgers were ousted in the National League Division Series for the second straight time and in humiliating fashion, while the Yanks had missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016.
This year, both clubs began the season in emphatic fashion, as they emerged as the two best teams in their respective leagues. After a grueling first two rounds of the postseason, the World Series between the two teams was hyped as one of the best in quality in recent times.
The Dodgers took an early lead by winning the first three games off some strong pitching and offensive brilliance from the likes of Freddie Freeman. The Yankees stopped the rut in Game 4 at the Bronx, thwarting a clean sweep, as they became the fourth team to force Game 5 after going 3-0 down.
However, they couldn't continue their comeback as the Dodgers rallied from a 5-0 deficit in Game 5 on Wednesday to seal the series, winning 7-6.
Aaron Boone reflects on his history of heartbreak with the Yanks after Dodgers defeat in World Series
As a one-season wonder in the Yankees roster, Aaron Boone hit a walk off home run in the ALCS Game 7 in 2003 against the Boston Red Sox.
However, New York couldn't win it all, as the Marlins beat them for the title. As manager, he also suffered defeat in the ALCS in 2019. Acknowledging the losses, the skipper shared the pain of everyone in the clubhouse.
"That feeling in 2003 - I can still see the Marlins and hear the Marlins celebrating on our field, and it was one of the most painful moments that I've experienced. 2019 in Houston was super painful. This with this group, the closeness, heartbroken for the room."
Aaron Boone is expected to return for the next season despite calls for his removal. Him and his staff have a lot of offseason activity to focus on as they look to regroup.