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1938 World Series

🎙️ Bob Costas — A Measured Look at World Series History

When the curtain rises on this latest Fall Classic, it will not merely be a contest of lineups and rotations, but of memory.
For the Anaheim Angels, the World Series ledger is brief — but indelible.
In 1934, they met the San Francisco Giants on baseball’s grandest stage and won convincingly, four games to one. It was a series defined by poise and execution, Anaheim establishing itself not as a novelty, but as a champion. That triumph remains their singular championship — and their defining October moment.
San Francisco’s history, by contrast, stretches back further and carries the weight of both glory and heartbreak.
In 1916, the Giants captured their first championship, defeating the Houston Astros four games to two — a foundational achievement for the franchise.
The following year brought disappointment. In 1917, they fell four games to one to the Baltimore Orioles, a reminder that dynasties are rarely born without adversity.
Then came 1934 — the aforementioned loss to Anaheim — a series that lingered in the franchise’s memory.
But what followed was a renaissance.
In 1935, the Giants prevailed in a dramatic seven-game struggle against the Cleveland Indians, four games to three — a series remembered for its tension and resilience.
And in 1936, they were dominant, sweeping the Tampa Bay Rays in four straight games, a display of offensive force that left little doubt about their stature.
So the historical ledger reads as follows:
1916 — Champions (def. Houston 4–2)
1917 — Lost to Baltimore 4–1
1934 — Lost to Anaheim 4–1
1935 — Champions (def. Cleveland 4–3)
1936 — Champions (def. Tampa Bay 4–0)
For Anaheim, one appearance. One title.
For San Francisco, six appearances and three championships — with the opportunity now to add another chapter.
History does not determine outcomes. But it does frame them.
And when these two clubs meet again, the echoes of 1934 will not be distant. They will be very much alive.