World Series Basics: What Every Fan Should Know

The World Series is the final showdown of Major League Baseball. Six games, best‑of‑seven, and the winner takes the coveted championship trophy. It’s been around since 1903, and even though the format has tweaked a bit, the excitement stays the same. If you’re new to baseball or just need a refresher, this guide breaks down the core pieces you’ll hear about every October.

How the Series is Set Up

The two league champions—one from the American League, one from the National League—face off after the playoffs. Both leagues run a wildcard round, a division series, and a league championship series, so the teams in the World Series have already survived three rounds of elimination. The games alternate between the two teams’ home stadiums, usually following a 2‑3‑2 pattern: the team with the better regular‑season record hosts games 1, 2, 6 and 7, while the other hosts games 3, 4, and 5.

Big Names and Record Holders

When you think World Series, a few clubs instantly pop up. The New York Yankees lead with 27 titles, followed by the St. Louis Cardinals with 11. Teams like the Boston Red Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers also have storied histories and multiple rings. Individual legends matter, too—players like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and Derek Jeter made their mark in decisive games, while modern stars such as Mike Trout and Aaron Judge are adding new chapters.

One quirky fact: the 1904 Series never happened because the New York Giants refused to play the American League champion. The next year, the World Series became an annual event, solidifying baseball’s place in American culture.

Wondering how to catch the action? Most games air on national TV—Fox typically holds the broadcast rights, while ESPN streams early rounds. If you’re lucky enough to live near a park, buying tickets in advance is a smart move, especially for Game 7, which sells out fast. Many fans also stream via official MLB apps, which offer live stats, replays, and behind‑the‑scenes clips.

For new fans, keep an eye on a few simple tips: memorize the schedule, set reminders for game times, and learn the basic rules—like how a pitcher can be pulled after a handful of pitches or why an extra‑innings loss feels so heartbreaking. That way, you’ll get the most out of every pitch and swing.

Finally, the World Series isn’t just about baseball; it’s about tradition, hometown pride, and sometimes drama that spills over into pop culture. Whether you’re cheering for the underdog or rooting for a dynasty, the series gives you a reason to gather with friends, fire up the grill, and enjoy a night of sport that’s been thrilling fans for more than a century.