Major League Baseball announced the start times for the first two games of the upcoming League Ch...

<p>Major League Baseball announced the start times for the first two games of the upcoming League Championship Series.</p><p>Toronto will host the Seattle Mariners in Games 1 and 2 of the ALCS at Rogers Centre on Oct. 12 and 13 before the series moves to T-Mobile Park. </p><p>Game 2 will now start at 5:03 p.m. ET. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="ALCS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zk0ap" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zk0ap/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="409" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The NLCS begins Oct. 13 in Milwaukee at American Family Field after the Brewers finished with MLB's best record during the regular season. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NLCS" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-juQEW" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/juQEW/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="629" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>MLB will announce start times for Games 3 through 7 at a later date.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 30: A general view of the 2025 Postseason logo on the field prior to Game 1 of the Wild Card Series presented by T-Mobile 5G Home Internet between the Detroit Tigers and the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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MLB announces start times for Games 1 and 2 of LCS

Unlike in the LCS and World Series, Major League Baseball doesn't hand out MVP awards following t...

<p>Unlike in the LCS and World Series, Major League Baseball doesn't hand out MVP awards following the best-of-five division series. But that doesn't mean we can't highlight the top performers from the last round. Let's take a look back and pick the MVPs from each of the four LDS.</p><h3>Blue Jays vs. Yankees: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Ernie Clement</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805098/cropped_GettyImages-2238856207.jpg?ts=1760131060" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805098/w220xh124_GettyImages-2238856207.jpg?ts=1760131060 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805098/w320xh180_GettyImages-2238856207.jpg?ts=1760131060 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805098/w640xh360_GettyImages-2238856207.jpg?ts=1760131060 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805098/w768xh432_GettyImages-2238856207.jpg?ts=1760131060 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805098/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2238856207.jpg?ts=1760131060 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Daniel Shirey / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>This could have easily gone to Trey Yesavage or Daulton Varsho, or even Aaron Judge, whose otherworldly performance came in a losing cause. But we're splitting it between the Blue Jays' unlikely duo of Vladdy and Ernie, who each recorded a team-high nine hits during Toronto's ALDS win. Guerrero continued his lifelong tormenting of the Yankees by slashing .529/.550/1.059 with three homers, including the Jays' first-ever playoff grand slam. He also struck out only once in 19 plate appearances. Meanwhile, Clement hit .643 - the second-highest average ever in a single division series - and drove in five runs while coming up with several clutch hits and playing excellent defense.</p><h3>Mariners vs. Tigers: Logan Gilbert</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805204/cropped_GettyImages-2239848967.jpg?ts=1760218184" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805204/w220xh124_GettyImages-2239848967.jpg?ts=1760218184 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805204/w320xh180_GettyImages-2239848967.jpg?ts=1760218184 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805204/w640xh360_GettyImages-2239848967.jpg?ts=1760218184 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805204/w768xh432_GettyImages-2239848967.jpg?ts=1760218184 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805204/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2239848967.jpg?ts=1760218184 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jane Gershovich / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There's no way the Mariners advance to the ALCS without Gilbert's pitching. First, he earned the win in Game 3 by shutting down the Tigers with a brilliant six-inning start at Comerica Park to give Seattle the series lead. Then in the epic Game 5, Gilbert made his first professional relief appearance in the 10th inning on two days' rest and held Detroit scoreless over two-plus frames, helping set up the Mariners' memorable walk-off win in the 15th. Overall, Gilbert finished the ALDS with a team-best 1.13 ERA along with a 1.64 FIP, 1.00 WHIP, and nine strikeouts to just one walk across eight innings of work.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Brewers vs. Cubs: Andrew Vaughn</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805255/cropped_GettyImages-2239236922.jpg?ts=1760238053" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805255/w220xh124_GettyImages-2239236922.jpg?ts=1760238053 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805255/w320xh180_GettyImages-2239236922.jpg?ts=1760238053 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805255/w640xh360_GettyImages-2239236922.jpg?ts=1760238053 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805255/w768xh432_GettyImages-2239236922.jpg?ts=1760238053 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805255/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2239236922.jpg?ts=1760238053 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mary DeCicco / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Brewers hardly expected this when they acquired Vaughn from the White Sox for Aaron Civale in mid-June. Vaughn's remarkable renaissance continued in the division series, hitting .286/.412/.714 with four RBIs, three walks, and 10 total bases. Two of his four hits in the series were home runs, none bigger than his series-winning solo shot in the fourth inning of Game 5. Vaughn, who had a 14.6 strikeout rate during the regular season, didn't strike out once in 17 NLDS plate appearances.</p><h3>Dodgers vs. Phillies: Roki Sasaki</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805099/cropped_GettyImages-2239613306.jpg?ts=1760131171" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805099/w220xh124_GettyImages-2239613306.jpg?ts=1760131171 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805099/w320xh180_GettyImages-2239613306.jpg?ts=1760131171 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805099/w640xh360_GettyImages-2239613306.jpg?ts=1760131171 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805099/w768xh432_GettyImages-2239613306.jpg?ts=1760131171 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805099/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2239613306.jpg?ts=1760131171 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Katelyn Mulcahy / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>This was Sasaki's coming-out party. After missing nearly four months with a shoulder injury, the Japanese phenom returned to the Dodgers as a lights-out reliever who not only stabilized a shaky bullpen but might have singlehandedly turned this LDS in the Dodgers' favor. Sasaki saved two of L.A.'s three wins, allowed only one hit, and struck out three in 4 1/3 innings during the series. He kept the deciding Game 4 tied late with three perfect innings of relief, tying a fearsome Phillies lineup in knots with his devastating splitter. The Dodgers don't advance to the NLCS without Sasaki.</p>

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Picking MVPs from each division series

The Seattle Mariners will play for the American League championship after defeating the Detroit T...

<p>The Seattle Mariners will play for the American League championship after defeating the Detroit Tigers 3-2 in an epic 15-inning Game 5 on Friday at T-Mobile Park.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a> sent the Mariners to their first ALCS in 24 years and ended the longest winner-take-all game in postseason history with a walk-off single off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3835" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3835">Tommy Kahnle</a> in the bottom of the 15th.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">JORGE POLANCO WINS IT IN THE 15TH INNING!<br><br>THE <a href="https://twitter.com/Mariners?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MARINERS</a> ARE HEADING TO THE ALCS!!! <a href="https://t.co/IEb6DLrHaY">pic.twitter.com/IEb6DLrHaY</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1976877472902762639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I know we played a long game, but this team never gave up," Polanco told <a href="https://apnews.com/article/tigers-mariners-score-alds-skubal-483df1fa26a6bb4fa01c4c2ba8742340">Luke Olson of the Associated Press</a>. "I know there is a lot of emotion, but we are always trying to keep it simple. I'm just trying to go out there and play and trying to get the win."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Detroit and Seattle traded blows for seven scoreless innings after the Mariners' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10112" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10112">Leo Rivas</a> tied the game at 2-2 with a pinch-hit single in the seventh. The teams used a combined 15 pitchers during the game.</p><p>Mariners starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12376" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12376">Logan Gilbert</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5526" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5526">Luis Castillo</a> each made their first career relief appearances to aid their taxed bullpen. Castillo earned the win by pitching 1 1/3 scoreless innings. He relieved <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12543" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12543">Eduard Bazardo</a>, who struck out four and allowed one hit over 2 2/3 innings to hold Detroit scoreless.</p><p>"It was such a tough night," Seattle catcher Cal Raleigh said. "Everyone put their other stuff (aside) and did everything for the team, including Logan and Luis."</p><p>Detroit was not without its chances throughout the night. Tigers ace Tarik Skubal turned in a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3365591" href="https://thescore.com/news/3365591">historic start</a> over the first six innings. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13956" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13956">Kerry Carpenter</a> went 4-for-5 with a walk and a homer, and became just the third player ever to reach base six times in a playoff game, per <a href="https://x.com/CodifyBaseball/status/1976860159722111157">Codify</a>.</p><p>The Tigers pitched their way out of trouble in the 12th, 13th, and 14th, but they couldn't wiggle out of a final bases-loaded jam in the 15th frame.</p><p>"Just an incredible ballgame from top to bottom," Mariners manager Dan Wilson said.</p><p>The Mariners will now face the Toronto Blue Jays in the ALCS. Game 1 is set for Sunday at 8:03 p.m. ET at Rogers Centre. It's the second postseason meeting between the 1977 expansion cousins. They also met in 2022, when Seattle swept the wild-card series in Toronto.</p>

SEATTLE, WA - OCTOBER 10: Members of the Seattle Mariners celebrate on the field after defeating the Detroit Tigers in Game Five of the American League Division Series presented by Booking.com between the Detroit Tigers and the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on Friday, October 10, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

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Mariners beat Tigers in 15-inning epic to reach 1st ALCS since 2001

Tarik Skubal put the Detroit Tigers on his back in Game 5 of the ALDS.  The reigning AL Cy Young ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a> put the Detroit Tigers on his back in Game 5 of the ALDS.</p><p>The reigning AL Cy Young winner turned in a performance for the ages with his team's season on the line, striking out 13 with no walks and just two hits over six innings Friday against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park.</p><p>However, Skubal's dominant outing still wasn't enough for the Tigers to reach the ALCS. The Mariners eventually came away with a 3-2 win in a 15-inning battle that will go down as an instant playoff classic.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Skubal's 13 strikeouts are a new playoff record in a sudden-death game. He's also the first pitcher to ever have two 13-strikeout games in the same postseason, per <a href="https://x.com/OptaSTATS/status/1976829376814866738">OptaStats</a>. He struck out 14 in Game 1 of the AL wild-card series against the Cleveland Guardians.</p><p>The 28-year-old recorded 10 strikeouts through four innings, making him the first pitcher to ever do that in a playoff game, according to <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1976823574272131130">Sarah Langs of MLB.com</a>. He also entered the record books with a string of seven straight strikeouts, breaking the previous October mark of six that had been done nine times.</p><p>He finished with a flourish, getting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10827" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10827">Cal Raleigh</a> swinging at a 101-mph fastball.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">TARIK SKUBAL GETS CAL RALEIGH SWINGING 😮‍💨 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Postseason?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Postseason</a> <a href="https://t.co/whzz8bQGFZ">pic.twitter.com/whzz8bQGFZ</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1976830135816143354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>It was Skubal's seventh strikeout with a pitch of 100 mph or higher this postseason, the most by a starting pitcher during the pitch-tracking era (since 2008), per <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1976831243984814281">Langs</a>.</p><p>"If you're not a fan of the Tigers and you haven't watched Tarik Skubal start after start after start, you're going to see why he gets the love he does, because he's incredible," Tigers manager AJ Hinch told <a href="https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/mlb/tigers/2025/10/10/tigers-tarik-skubal-sets-mlb-record-in-game-5-vs-mariners/86634742007/">Tony Paul of The Detroit News</a>. </p><p>"He's an emotional leader. He's someone who brings it on the field. You see it every five or six days. And we've asked a lot out of him this season, but specifically the postseason."</p><p>Skubal was lifted for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8441" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8441">Kyle Finnegan</a> in the bottom of the seventh after throwing 99 pitches with the Tigers ahead 2-1. But the bullpen couldn't secure him a win: Finnegan allowed the tying run to reach base before pinch hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10112" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10112">Leo Rivas</a> ripped an RBI single off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13766">Tyler Holton</a> to knot Game 5 at 2-2.</p><p><a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a> eventually hit a walk-off single in the bottom of the 15th to send Seattle to its first ALCS since 2001.</p>

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 10: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers celebrates after striking out Cal Raleigh (not pictured) of the Seattle Mariners during the sixth inning in game five of the American League Division Series at T-Mobile Park on October 10, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

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Skubal Ks 13 over 6 IP in record Game 5 performance

The Los Angeles Angels have had discussions with future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols about their v...

<p>The Los Angeles Angels have had discussions with future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols about their vacant managerial position, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6707683/2025/10/10/albert-pujols-angels-manager-discussion/">Sam Blum and Katie Woo of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>While an agreement is not yet in place, the job appears to be Pujols' to lose. The three-time MVP sat down with Angels general manager Perry Minasian in St. Louis on Thursday, and that meeting is believed to have gone well, Blum and Woo report. Pujols is also reportedly the preferred hire of owner Arte Moreno.</p><p>The Angels currently employ Pujols as a special assistant as part of a 10-year, $10-million personal services contract with the club that kicked in upon his retirement in 2023. That personal services deal was originally negotiated as part of the 10-year, $240-million contract he inked with the Halos as a free agent before the 2012 season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 45-year-old has no big-league managerial or coaching experience. However, he did gain some reps by managing the Leones del Escogido in his native Dominican Republic last winter, guiding them to both the 2024-25 Dominican winter league and Caribbean Series titles. He's also slated to manage the Dominican squad in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.</p><p>The Angels, who haven't posted a winning record since 2015 and last made the playoffs in 2014, opted to move on from Ron Washington following a second straight 90-loss season. L.A. also didn't retain interim skipper Ray Montgomery, who filled in for most of the season after Washington stepped away due to health problems.</p><p>Other names in the running for the vacancy include another ex-Angels star in Torii Hunter, Blum and Woo report. Like Pujols, Hunter has no coaching experience. However, the club's only expected to seriously consider Hunter if negotiations with Pujols fall through.</p><p>Whoever is hired by the Angels will be the franchise's fourth full-time manager since 2019, when Mike Scioscia retired following 19 seasons in their dugout.</p>

Albert Pujols during the game between Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic as part of the Serie Del Caribe 2025 at Estadio El Nido De Los Aguila on February 4, 2025 in Mexicali, Mexico.

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Report: Pujols, Angels have discussed vacant manager's job

The Toronto Blue Jays are off to the American League Championship Series for the first time in ni...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays are off to the American League Championship Series for the first time in nine years. </p><p>Toronto eliminated the New York Yankees with a 5-2 victory Wednesday at Yankee Stadium to win its ALDS three games to one.</p><p>Eight Blue Jays relievers combined to strike out 10 batters while holding New York to only six hits. Closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4786" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4786">Jeff Hoffman</a> got the final four outs, and after allowing an Aaron Judge RBI single in the bottom of the ninth, he struck out Cody Bellinger to clinch the series.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">HEY CANADA, WE'RE SPENDING THANKSGIVING TOGETHER! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WANTITALL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WANTITALL</a> <a href="https://t.co/COMDdJrwAN">pic.twitter.com/COMDdJrwAN</a></p>— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJays/status/1976114726129025373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Nathan Lukes drove in the winning run with a two-run single in the seventh following a Jazz Chisholm Jr. error, and Myles Straw added some insurance with an RBI knock in the eighth.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nathan for You<br><br>Nathan Lukes delivers a clutch 2-run single in the 7th! <a href="https://t.co/cIvnwP7ExS">pic.twitter.com/cIvnwP7ExS</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1976095360649949386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Lukes went 2-for-5 with two RBIs in the victory. Addison Barger went 3-for-5, Ernie Clement had a pair of hits and scored twice, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. capped off his torrid series with an RBI single in the first inning.</p><p>Toronto outscored New York 34-19 over the four games, aided in large part by a dominant performance during the first two contests at home. The Blue Jays' 34 runs are the fourth-most scored by any team during its first four games of a postseason, according to <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1976105150973456886">Sarah Langs of MLB.com</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Vladimir Guerrero Jr. &amp; Ernie Clement<br><br>2nd pair of teammates in MLB history with 9 hits within the first 4 games of a postseason, joining Don Mattingly &amp; Bernie Williams (1995 Yankees)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WANTITALL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WANTITALL</a></p>— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) <a href="https://twitter.com/SNstats/status/1976094512469393438?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Judge, who brought the Yankees back into the series with a monster Game 3, went 2-for-4 and was walked intentionally once in his team's season-ending loss. He hit a sizzling .600/.684/.933 against Toronto but was New York's only position player with more than four hits during the series.</p><p>Yankees starter Cam Schlittler struck out only two in 6 1/3 innings of work and took the loss after being charged with four runs (two earned) on eight hits. Devin Williams allowed the series-winning hit after relieving Schlittler in the seventh.</p><p>Toronto now returns home to rest up and await either the Seattle Mariners or Detroit Tigers in the ALCS. The Mariners and Tigers play a winner-take-all Game 5 on Friday in Seattle.</p><p>Game 1 of the ALCS is scheduled for Sunday at Rogers Centre.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 08: The Toronto Blue Jays celebrate after winning Game Four of the American League Division Series presented by Booking.com between the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 in New York, New York. The Toronto Blue Jays won 5-2 and will advance to the American League Championship Series.

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Blue Jays eliminate Yankees, advance to 1st ALCS since 2016

The Toronto Blue Jays will start right-hander Louis Varland in Game 4 of the ALDS against the New...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays will start right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15396" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15396">Louis Varland</a> in Game 4 of the ALDS against the New York Yankees, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/KeeganMatheson/status/1975788159062695944">Keegan Matheson of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>Varland, a reliever, will presumably work as an opener. It's unknown who will follow him in a bulk role.</p><p>Varland took the loss Tuesday in Toronto's 9-6 defeat in Game 3, being charged with two runs on two hits over one inning of work. One of those hits was a gigantic game-tying three-run homer by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a>, who turned on Varland's 100-mph inside fastball and clanked it off the left-field foul pole. Judge will likely face Varland again in the first inning Wednesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 27-year-old Varland has pitched in each of the first three games of this series, and owns a 6.75 ERA in 2 2/3 innings.</p><p>The Blue Jays had planned to go with a bullpen game in Game 4 after leaving starters Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt off the ALDS roster. However, they had to use six relievers in Game 3 as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber</a> failed to get out of the third inning. Manager John Schneider said postgame that "everyone is available tomorrow," according to <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1975783100581093503">Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith</a>.</p><p>Game 4 of the ALDS starts at 7 p.m. at Yankee Stadium. A Blue Jays win will send the team to its first ALCS since 2016, while New York will be looking to force the series back to Rogers Centre for a winner-take-all Game 5.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 07: Louis Varland #77 of the Toronto Blue Jays pitches against the New York Yankees during the fifth inning in game three of the American League Division Series at Yankee Stadium on October 07, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City.

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Blue Jays' Varland starting Game 4 after allowing Judge HR

The Toronto Blue Jays have pushed the New York Yankees to the brink.  Rookie Trey Yesavage turned...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays have pushed the New York Yankees to the brink.</p><p>Rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20109" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20109">Trey Yesavage</a> turned in a historic start in his postseason debut, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> crushed a grand slam, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9524" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9524">Daulton Varsho</a> tied an MLB record with four extra-base hits in Toronto's 13-7 win in Game 2 of the ALDS at Rogers Centre on Sunday.</p><p>The Blue Jays will look to sweep the Yankees and advance to their first ALCS since 2016 when the series resumes Tuesday in the Bronx.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toronto outscored New York 23-8 across Games 1 and 2 of the series. The Jays' 23 total runs set a postseason record for the most over the first two contests of a series, according to <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1974960901888643464">Sarah Langs of MLB.com</a>. Additionally, they set a franchise record for home runs in a postseason game, while scoring the most runs in a playoff contest since Game 4 of the 1993 World Series, per <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/O72pS">Stathead</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">First time in Yankees history they've allowed 10+ runs in back-to-back playoff games.</p>— Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) <a href="https://twitter.com/AaronGleeman/status/1974949910832398362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Yesavage, Toronto's top pitching prospect, was the star of the show Sunday in just the fourth appearance of his MLB career. The 22-year-old set a franchise postseason record with 11 strikeouts over 5 1/3 innings of no-hit ball before departing to a thunderous ovation.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Trey Yesavage exits after the pitching performance of a lifetime 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ALDS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ALDS</a> <a href="https://t.co/pjctobKmYW">pic.twitter.com/pjctobKmYW</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1974955400173903901?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Yesavage became the eighth rookie in playoff history to record 10-plus Ks in a playoff contest and tied the MLB postseason record with six consecutive strikeouts. He's the second-youngest pitcher to have a 10-strikeout game in the playoffs, per <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1974946035245199395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1974946035245199395%7Ctwgr%5E2d20eecd6ded2df6967210b6e421969896cae6e1%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fcmsadmin.thescore.com%2Fadmin%2Fnewsroom%2F%2Farticles%2F3361711">Langs</a>.</p><p>Toronto's bats jumped all over Yankees starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a>, who allowed seven earned runs on eight hits over three-plus innings. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15569">Will Warren</a> relieved Fried and allowed Guerrero's grand slam - the first in Blue Jays playoff history - to make it 9-0.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="nl" dir="ltr">VLADDY SLAM!!!!!!!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ALDS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ALDS</a> <a href="https://t.co/tOchTWRUOa">pic.twitter.com/tOchTWRUOa</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1974948381945733375?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Guerrero finished his day 3-for-5 with four RBIs and two runs scored.</p><p>Varsho, meanwhile, went 4-for-5 with two homers and two doubles while scoring four runs. He's the <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/cQJLV">sixth player ever</a> to record four extra-base hits in a postseason game and the third to do it while hitting at least two home runs, according to <a href="https://x.com/TylerKepner/status/1974961759728660643">Tyler Kepner of The Athletic</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10877" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10877">Ernie Clement</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2931" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2931">George Springer</a> also homered for Toronto. Springer's blast was his 20th career playoff round-tripper, moving him into a tie with Derek Jeter for fifth all time.</p><p>The Yankees scored seven runs against Toronto's bullpen after Yesavage was lifted, with five of those coming in the top of the seventh against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8244" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8244">Eric Lauer</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12796" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12796">Tommy Nance</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16294" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16294">Mason Fluharty</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15396" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15396">Louis Varland</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9732" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9732">Seranthony Domínguez</a> then combined for 2 1/3 scoreless frames to close out New York.</p>

TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 05: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 and Trey Yesavage #39 of the Toronto Blue Jays celebrate after winning Game Two of the American League Division Series presented by Booking.com between the New York Yankees and the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on Sunday, October 5, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Yesavage shines as Jays push Yankees to brink

Garrett Crochet pitched like the ace the Boston Red Sox traded for, outdueling Max Fried with 11 ...

<p>Garrett Crochet pitched like the ace the Boston Red Sox traded for, outdueling Max Fried with 11 strikeouts over 7.2 innings of one-run ball in a 3-1 victory over the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the best-of-three AL wild-card series.</p><p>Pinch-hitter Masataka Yoshida had the winning blow for Boston, ripping a go-ahead two-run single off Yankees reliever Luke Weaver in the seventh inning. Aroldis Chapman then finished off his former team with a four-out save, striking out Trent Grisham after loading the bases with none out in the bottom of the ninth to preserve the Red Sox win.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The <a href="https://twitter.com/RedSox?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RedSox</a> take Game 1 of the AL Wild Card Series! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Postseason?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Postseason</a> <a href="https://t.co/je3bkbSwbD">pic.twitter.com/je3bkbSwbD</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1973194633732870168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Red Sox can now eliminate their archrivals and advance to the ALDS with a win on Wednesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Crochet's 11 strikeouts were the most ever by a Red Sox pitcher without issuing a walk in a playoff game, according to <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1973192368225673377">Sarah Langs of MLB.com</a>. He retired 18 of the final 19 batters he faced, including a run of 17 straight after allowing an Anthony Volpe homer in the second.</p><p>Fried dazzled in his Yankees playoff debut, allowing only four hits while striking out six and walking three over 6.1 shutout innings. However, the team's volatile bullpen imploded to spoil his outing as soon as it was summoned by manager Aaron Boone.</p><p>Luke Weaver took over for Fried and failed to retire a batter. After walking Ceddanne Rafaela and allowing a Nick Sogard double, he surrendered the game-winning hit to Yoshida before being removed.</p><p>Alex Bregman added some insurance for Boston in the ninth with an RBI double off Yankees closer David Bednar.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 30: Garrett Crochet #35 of the Boston Red Sox shakes hands with manager Alex Cora #13 as he is removed from the eighth inning of game one of the American League Wild Card Series against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on September 30, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City.

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Crochet's gem leads Red Sox past Yankees in Game 1

The Minnesota Twins fired longtime manager Rocco Baldelli, the team announced Monday.  The Twins ...

<p>The Minnesota Twins fired longtime manager Rocco Baldelli, the team announced Monday.</p><p>The Twins dismissed Baldelli after losing 92 games in 2025 - their worst record since 2016 and a sharp decline from their division-title season two years prior.</p><p>"This game is ultimately measured by results, and over the past two seasons, we did not reach the goals we set. I take personal responsibility for that," Twins president of baseball and business operations Derek Falvey said in a statement.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"After discussions with ownership, we determined that this is the right moment for a change in voice and direction. This decision is not a reflection of Rocco's effort or leadership. It reflects where we are as an organization and the belief that a different voice is needed to help us move forward."</p><p>Baldelli led the Twins to three division titles in seven campaigns at the helm and won AL Manager of the Year following a 101-win debut season in 2019. His 527 wins are the fourth-most among Twins skippers since the franchise moved to Minnesota in 1961.</p><p>However, the Twins' longtime postseason struggles continued under Baldelli's watch. Overall, his teams won only three postseason games and one playoff series - the 2023 AL wild-card round. Minnesota also suffered a late-season collapse in 2024, falling out of a wild-card spot on the final weekend of the regular season.</p><p>This year, Minnesota hovered around .500 for much of the first half before falling out of contention by losing eight of 12 after the All-Star break. A fire sale at the deadline saw the club deal away 10 players, including key relievers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10794" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10794">Jhoan Duran</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15396" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15396">Louis Varland</a>, as well as<span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left"> star shortstop <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3992" target="_blank">Carlos Correa</a></span> in a salary dump.</p><p>Hampered by the departures at the deadline, the Twins went an AL-worst 19-35 over the final two months.</p><p>This marks just the fourth time since 1987 that Minnesota has changed managers.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 13: Manager Rocco Baldelli #5 of the Minnesota Twins agues a call during the game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Target Field on September 13, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Twins fire Rocco Baldelli after 92-loss season

The Boston Red Sox will be without one of their key pitchers for their wild-card series against t...

<p>The Boston Red Sox will be without one of their key pitchers for their wild-card series against the New York Yankees.</p><p>Right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4272">Lucas Giolito</a> is being left off the team's wild-card roster because of an elbow issue, manager Alex Cora announced Monday. The exact nature of his injury wasn't revealed.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Alex Cora announces Lucas Giolito won’t be on Wild Card roster after experiencing elbow discomfort. Had to cut most recent bullpen short. Seeing Dr. Dugas. <a href="https://t.co/bQD5ZywKq7">pic.twitter.com/bQD5ZywKq7</a></p>— Rob Bradford (@bradfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/bradfo/status/1972737664651792685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>It's still unclear if Giolito, who missed all of 2024 after undergoing surgery to repair a torn elbow ligament, would be available if the Red Sox advance. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow didn't rule it out but said it's too early to tell as the team is still "information gathering," according to <a href="https://twitter.com/gfstarr1/status/1972743776008618317">Gabrielle Starr of the Boston Herald</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Giolito was lined up to potentially start Game 3 of the wild-card series Thursday if necessary. Cora has yet to name a replacement starter for the potential Game 3, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/IanMBrowne/status/1972735824103178421">Ian Browne of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>The 31-year-old Giolito enjoyed a solid comeback season for Boston in 2025, posting a 3.41 ERA, 4.17 FIP, and 1.29 WHIP with 121 strikeouts across 145 innings. His innings total triggered a $19-million mutual option for 2026.</p><p>Boston will send ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a> to the mound in Game 1, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13634">Brayan Bello</a> is starting Game 2. Potential candidates to start Game 3 in place of Giolito could include top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16848" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16848">Connelly Early</a> or left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15805" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15805">Kyle Harrison</a>.</p><p>The Red Sox have yet to announce their full roster for the best-of-three series.</p>

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 12: Lucas Giolito #24 of the Boston Red Sox pitches during the game between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Friday, September 12, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Red Sox leaving Giolito off wild-card roster due to elbow issue

The Pittsburgh Pirates extended the contract of manager Don Kelly, they announced Monday.  Terms ...

<p>The Pittsburgh Pirates extended the contract of manager Don Kelly, they announced Monday.</p><p>Terms of the contract were not disclosed.</p><p>Kelly, 45, was promoted to manager May 8 after the franchise fired longtime skipper Derek Shelton following a 12-26 start. Although the Pirates still finished last in the NL Central, they showed a marked improvement after the managerial change, going 59-65 under Kelly. The Pirates were one game below .500 during the second half and ended 2025 with a winning record at home.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Donnie has earned the respect of the players, front office, and our fans - and he has certainly earned mine," Pirates chairman Bob Nutting said in a statement. "Donnie took over the team at a true low point. Since then, we've seen meaningful progress, not just in the clubhouse culture, but on the field.</p><p>"His connection to the community and passion for the franchise make him more than just a manager. He is a Pittsburgher; he is part of our community. He's the right fit, at the right time, and is the right person to lead us forward."</p><p>Kelly will now be tasked with taking a young and perpetually rebuilding Pirates squad that's led by likely NL Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> to the next level. The Bucs just finished their seventh straight losing season and have made the playoffs only three times in the wild-card era, winning a single playoff series - the 2013 NL wild-card game - over that span.</p><p>"This season, we fell well short as an organization both on and off the field," Nutting said. "It has been unacceptable. Our focus must shift to execution, to delivering wins. Results are the only thing that matter. We owe it to our fans, to the city, and to the legacy of this team to get it right. ... Today's announcement of Donnie is the first of many steps we will take this offseason to bring winning baseball back to Pittsburgh."</p><p>Kelly, a Pittsburgh native, spent four-plus seasons as Shelton's bench coach before his promotion to manager. He also had a nine-year playing career in the majors, primarily with the Detroit Tigers.</p><p>In addition to retaining Kelly, Pittsburgh announced that general manager Ben Cherington will return for a seventh season heading up the club's baseball operations.</p><p>Cherington has yet to build a winning team during his time with the Pirates, who had the fourth-lowest payroll in the majors on Opening Day this year, per <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/mlb/payroll">Spotrac</a>. However, the 51-year-old has signed and developed bright young stars, including pitchers Skenes and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17585" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17585">Bubba Chandler</a>, who provide a potential foundation going forward.</p><p>Pirates president Travis Williams made it clear they're retaining Cherington with the expectation that he'll build a competitive team that can reach the playoffs next year.</p><p>"We felt at the end of the day that making a change at general manager would set us back," Williams said, per <a href="https://x.com/937theFan/status/1972758507217727839">93.7 The Fan</a>. "That's not what our fans expect. That's not what we expect. We're looking in 2026 to make the playoffs. Period. Full stop. ... We're pushing it all in and making sure that we are able to make the playoffs in 2026."</p>

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 30: Manager Don Kelly #12 of the Pittsburgh Pirates looks on before the game against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on May 30, 2025 in San Diego, California.

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Pirates extend manager Don Kelly

The San Francisco Giants fired manager Bob Melvin after two seasons with the club, they announced...

<p>The San Francisco Giants fired manager Bob Melvin after two seasons with the club, they announced Monday.</p><p>"After careful evaluation, we determined that making a change in leadership was in the best interest of the team," Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey said in a statement. "The last couple of months have been both disappointing and frustrating for all of us, and we did not perform up to our standards. We now turn our focus to identifying a new leader to guide us forward."</p><p>San Francisco chose to let Melvin go less than three months after picking up the 2026 club option on his contract.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Posey says that the fate of the coaching staff is likely to be determined when the manager is hired. Chance for some to keep jobs, it sounds like. Posey doesn’t indicate anyone on the staff was let go today apart from Melvin.</p>— Susan Slusser (@susanslusser) <a href="https://twitter.com/susanslusser/status/1972717478238384153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Melvin, 63, was hired in 2024 with expectations of turning the Giants around after two straight losing seasons. However, the team went 161-163 during his two-year tenure and never finished higher than third in the NL West.</p><p>In 2025, the Giants finished with a .500 record despite signing star shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4784" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4784">Willy Adames</a> in the offseason and acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> in a blockbuster midseason trade.</p><p>Melvin might not be out of work for long thanks to a stellar resume that includes three Manager of the Year awards and a .514 winning percentage over 22 seasons in the dugout with five teams. However, while he's guided his clubs to the postseason eight times, he's achieved limited success in October. Melvin's 1,678 regular-season wins are the third-most among managers who've never won a league pennant.</p><p>The Giants' next manager will be the first hired by Posey, who took over baseball operations late in Melvin's first season with the club. San Francisco's finished with a winning record once since 2016: when the team won a franchise-record 107 games in 2021.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - SEPTEMBER 28: San Francisco Giants manager Bob Melvin (6) looks on from the dugout during a MLB game between the Colorado Rockies and San Francisco Giants on September 28, 2025, at Oracle Park in San Francisco, CA.

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Giants fire Bob Melvin after 2 seasons

Welcome to our playoff edition of the MLB Power Rankings, where we look at why each team could wi...

<p><em>Welcome to our playoff edition of the MLB Power Rankings, where we look at why each team could win the World Series and what could hold them back.</em></p><h3>1. Philadelphia Phillies</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801309/cropped_GettyImages-2234684042.jpg?ts=1757881366" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801309/w220xh124_GettyImages-2234684042.jpg?ts=1757881366 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801309/w320xh180_GettyImages-2234684042.jpg?ts=1757881366 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801309/w640xh360_GettyImages-2234684042.jpg?ts=1757881366 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801309/w768xh432_GettyImages-2234684042.jpg?ts=1757881366 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801309/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2234684042.jpg?ts=1757881366 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Heather Barry / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>This is the most complete Phillies team in some time. Kyle Schwarber leads a potent offense that will only get better now that Trea Turner is healthy. A top-three of Cristopher Sánchez, Ranger Suárez, and Jesús Luzardo is as good as it gets. And Jhoan Duran has finally given the bullpen some stability in the late innings.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>At this point, the weakness is mental. The Phillies' core is aging fast, and after two years of playoff disappointments, the pressure to win has never been greater. The only team that can stop this year's Phillies is themselves.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>2. Milwaukee Brewers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801882/cropped_GettyImages-2235954842.jpg?ts=1758256143" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801882/w220xh124_GettyImages-2235954842.jpg?ts=1758256143 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801882/w320xh180_GettyImages-2235954842.jpg?ts=1758256143 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801882/w640xh360_GettyImages-2235954842.jpg?ts=1758256143 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801882/w768xh432_GettyImages-2235954842.jpg?ts=1758256143 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801882/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2235954842.jpg?ts=1758256143 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John Fisher / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>Because no one expects them to. The Brewers defied all expectations to post the best record in baseball, making them the rare favorites who are playing with house money. They have a balanced lineup that doesn't strike out and a top-tier pitching staff. Milwaukee will be a tough out.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>There's a lack of playoff experience on this Brewers squad, and that could easily be exploited by an opponent who knows how to handle the pressures of October. Injuries could also impact Milwaukee, as it's unclear whether starters Brandon Woodruff and Jose Quintana will be available.</p><h3>3. Toronto Blue Jays</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803365/cropped_GettyImages-2237647648.jpg?ts=1759094329" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803365/w220xh124_GettyImages-2237647648.jpg?ts=1759094329 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803365/w320xh180_GettyImages-2237647648.jpg?ts=1759094329 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803365/w640xh360_GettyImages-2237647648.jpg?ts=1759094329 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803365/w768xh432_GettyImages-2237647648.jpg?ts=1759094329 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803365/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2237647648.jpg?ts=1759094329 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cole Burston / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>Like the Brewers, they're playing with house money after exceeding expectations. The AL East champion Blue Jays are a plucky group that grinds out at-bats, strikes out less than any other team, and has gotten a ton of production out of their role players.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>Parts of the bullpen have been inconsistent all season. Closer Jeff Hoffman can be lights out one night and hit hard the next. The Jays also need Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to step up - and for Bo Bichette to get healthy - if a deep run is in order.</p><h3>4. New York Yankees</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798153/cropped_GettyImages-2231038207.jpg?ts=1755665975" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798153/w220xh124_GettyImages-2231038207.jpg?ts=1755665975 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798153/w320xh180_GettyImages-2231038207.jpg?ts=1755665975 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798153/w640xh360_GettyImages-2231038207.jpg?ts=1755665975 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798153/w768xh432_GettyImages-2231038207.jpg?ts=1755665975 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798153/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2231038207.jpg?ts=1755665975 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Julio Aguilar / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>The Yankees' MLB-best offense is led by Aaron Judge, but he has plenty of help. Giancarlo Stanton, Cody Bellinger, and Ben Rice are just a few of the powerful bats who support the two-time AL MVP. Power will get you everywhere in October, and these Yankees can slug their way past anybody.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>The Yankees' bullpen put up a 4.86 ERA in the second half of the season, the highest among all playoff teams. No matter how many runs they score or how well the rotation pitches, this team's championship hopes hinge entirely on whether or not the volatile bullpen does its job.</p><h3>5. Seattle Mariners</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/cropped_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/w220xh124_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/w320xh180_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/w640xh360_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/w768xh432_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>Unlike in past years, these Mariners can mash. Cal Raleigh will get all the attention, but he's supported by the likes of Julio Rodríguez, Randy Arozarena, Josh Naylor, and Jorge Polanco. Seattle's pitching staff is also among the best in baseball.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>Offensively, the Mariners are a top-heavy team that strikes out a lot. Keep at least some of the star bats quiet and you can get them. The supporting cast will have to step up if Seattle is going to make a run.</p><h3>6. Los Angeles Dodgers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797701/cropped_GettyImages-2229171463.jpg?ts=1755320775" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797701/w220xh124_GettyImages-2229171463.jpg?ts=1755320775 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797701/w320xh180_GettyImages-2229171463.jpg?ts=1755320775 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797701/w640xh360_GettyImages-2229171463.jpg?ts=1755320775 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797701/w768xh432_GettyImages-2229171463.jpg?ts=1755320775 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797701/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2229171463.jpg?ts=1755320775 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>Even though this wasn't the smoothest season for the Dodgers, the defending champions remain as dangerous as ever. Mookie Betts looks more like himself, Shohei Ohtani is back to being a two-way threat, and Blake Snell is healthy again. They'll be a very tough out.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>The Dodgers' bullpen has been a sore spot for much of the season's second half. Even with the addition of a healthy Roki Sasaki, it could end up deciding their fate. The likely absence of starting catcher Will Smith, a key part of their lineup, will also be felt.</p><h3>7. San Diego Padres</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796624/cropped_GettyImages-2228132300.jpg?ts=1754398824" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796624/w220xh124_GettyImages-2228132300.jpg?ts=1754398824 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796624/w320xh180_GettyImages-2228132300.jpg?ts=1754398824 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796624/w640xh360_GettyImages-2228132300.jpg?ts=1754398824 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796624/w768xh432_GettyImages-2228132300.jpg?ts=1754398824 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796624/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2228132300.jpg?ts=1754398824 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Orlando Ramirez / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>The Padres are a talented team that's hungry to make good on its promise and prove the doubters wrong. Relievers Mason Miller, Adrian Morejon, and Robert Suarez lead a loaded bullpen that can shorten games and shut down opponents quickly after the offense goes to work.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>San Diego doesn't hit a lot of home runs, and its contact-heavy approach could come back to bite the team against certain pitching staffs. Superstars Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. must show up and lead the way offensively.</p><h3>8. Chicago Cubs</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803055/cropped_GettyImages-2237608164.jpg?ts=1758924433" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803055/w220xh124_GettyImages-2237608164.jpg?ts=1758924433 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803055/w320xh180_GettyImages-2237608164.jpg?ts=1758924433 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803055/w640xh360_GettyImages-2237608164.jpg?ts=1758924433 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803055/w768xh432_GettyImages-2237608164.jpg?ts=1758924433 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803055/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2237608164.jpg?ts=1758924433 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sage Zipeto / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>The Cubs' offense is lethal, featuring three 30-homer hitters who can strike quickly against any pitching staff. This makes them especially dangerous in a short series - and a threat to pull off an upset.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>There are plenty of questions on the pitching side. The Cubs' staff posted the fourth-lowest K/9 (7.9) during the regular season, making their wild-card matchup against a contact-heavy Padres offense a potentially dangerous one. The Cubs are also missing Cade Horton due to a rib injury, while Shota Imanaga struggled down the stretch.</p><h3>9. Boston Red Sox</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798672/cropped_GettyImages-2228709865.jpg?ts=1755996872" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798672/w220xh124_GettyImages-2228709865.jpg?ts=1755996872 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798672/w320xh180_GettyImages-2228709865.jpg?ts=1755996872 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798672/w640xh360_GettyImages-2228709865.jpg?ts=1755996872 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798672/w768xh432_GettyImages-2228709865.jpg?ts=1755996872 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798672/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2228709865.jpg?ts=1755996872 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>Alex Cora's club has gelled since the shocking trade of Rafael Devers in June. The Red Sox have a legitimate ace in Garrett Crochet, an all-world closer in Aroldis Chapman, and a solid veteran-led lineup that includes Alex Bregman and Trevor Story.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>The rotation behind Crochet has some question marks. Top prospect Connelly Early has impressed since being called up in September, but the playoffs are a different beast. The Red Sox will also miss Roman Anthony's bat during playoff games.</p><h3>10. Cleveland Guardians</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797592/cropped_GettyImages-2230199675.jpg?ts=1755223035" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797592/w220xh124_GettyImages-2230199675.jpg?ts=1755223035 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797592/w320xh180_GettyImages-2230199675.jpg?ts=1755223035 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797592/w640xh360_GettyImages-2230199675.jpg?ts=1755223035 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797592/w768xh432_GettyImages-2230199675.jpg?ts=1755223035 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797592/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2230199675.jpg?ts=1755223035 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jason Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>The Guardians just overcame a 15.5-game deficit to win the AL Central. If that's not a sign for a team of destiny, what is? Cleveland has a stellar pitching staff that's been on fire throughout September - posting an MLB-best 2.61 ERA - as well as superstars José Ramírez and Steven Kwan anchoring its lineup.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>Aside from Ramírez and Kwan, the lineup doesn't strike much fear into the hearts of opposing pitchers. Cleveland's .226 average is the lowest ever for a playoff team, four points lower than the 1906 Chicago White Sox - a team nicknamed the "Hitless Wonders." Ramírez and Kwan can't do it all by themselves.</p><h3>11. Detroit Tigers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803214/cropped_GettyImages-2237476606.jpg?ts=1759017060" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803214/w220xh124_GettyImages-2237476606.jpg?ts=1759017060 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803214/w320xh180_GettyImages-2237476606.jpg?ts=1759017060 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803214/w640xh360_GettyImages-2237476606.jpg?ts=1759017060 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803214/w768xh432_GettyImages-2237476606.jpg?ts=1759017060 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803214/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2237476606.jpg?ts=1759017060 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Winslow Townson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>Led by reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, the Tigers have some of the best pitching in the playoffs. Casey Mize is a solid No. 2 starter behind Skubal, and manager A.J. Hinch has proven to be a wizard at managing his pitching staffs to get the best possible matchups in October.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>As this last month made painfully clear, these Tigers can go cold in a hurry on both sides of the ball. It's an open question as to which version of the team will show up: the one that dominated the first half of the year or the one that settled for a wild-card spot after blowing the biggest division lead in history.</p><h3>12. Cincinnati Reds</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801862/cropped_GettyImages-2236182018.jpg?ts=1758246785" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801862/w220xh124_GettyImages-2236182018.jpg?ts=1758246785 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801862/w320xh180_GettyImages-2236182018.jpg?ts=1758246785 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801862/w640xh360_GettyImages-2236182018.jpg?ts=1758246785 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801862/w768xh432_GettyImages-2236182018.jpg?ts=1758246785 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801862/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2236182018.jpg?ts=1758246785 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dylan Buell / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why they could win it all: </strong>You need starting pitching in October, and the Reds' trio of Hunter Greene, Andrew Abbott, and Nick Lodolo is perhaps the most underrated group of playoff starters. With little in the way of pressure, the starters could lead the way for this group to pull off an upset.</p><p><strong>Biggest weakness: </strong>Cincinnati was a relatively average offensive team all season and boasts little in the way of power outside of Elly De La Cruz. The Reds could easily run into trouble against a good pitching staff with plenty of velocity.</p>

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MLB Playoff Power Rankings: Each team's World Series chances

New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso plans to opt out of his contract once the offseason offic...

<p>New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso plans to opt out of his contract once the offseason officially begins.</p><p>The slugger announced his intentions shortly after the Mets were eliminated from the playoffs Sunday, according to <a href="https://x.com/AnthonyDiComo/status/1972427612279763384">Anthony DiComo of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>Alonso, who's spent his entire career with the Mets, will give up a guaranteed $24-million salary in 2026 to re-enter free agency.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pete Alonso says he will opt out and become a free agent this offseason<br><br>On his future with the Mets: "Playing for this organization, this city - they've continued to believe in me. I love playing here. There's some great guys in this clubhouse, some great people on the staff.… <a href="https://t.co/Lpa32DEEno">pic.twitter.com/Lpa32DEEno</a></p>— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) <a href="https://twitter.com/SNY_Mets/status/1972429209369764064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 30-year-old tested the open market for the first time last winter but struggled to find a contract to his liking. After protracted negotiations with the Mets, he finally re-signed in February on a two-year, $54-million deal that included a 2026 player option.</p><p>Alonso played in all 162 games for the Mets this season, hitting a career-best .272/.347/.524 with 38 home runs and 126 RBIs across 624 plate appearances. In August, he passed Darryl Strawberry to become the Mets' all-time home-run leader.</p><p>Despite Alonso becoming one of the faces of the franchise over his seven-year tenure in Flushing, the Mets have made just two playoff appearances since he debuted in 2019. He plans to make winning a priority when choosing his next team.</p><p>"I think the biggest thing is - I want to win," Alonso said, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/1972430107542237358">SNY</a>. "I know we didn't this year, but we had the right pieces, I think. We just didn't do it."</p><p>He added, "I want to be on top of the mountain. I want to win a World Series."</p><p>The Mets have a second star player, closer Edwin Díaz, who can opt out of his contract this winter. Díaz <a href="https://x.com/SNY_Mets/status/1972431884345876706">said</a> Sunday that he has yet to make a decision about his future.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 03: New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso (20) walks back to the dugout after striking out during the MLB game between the New York Mets and the Los Angeles Dodgers on June 3, 2025 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA.

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Mets' Alonso plans to opt out, re-enter free agency

After 162 games, the Toronto Blue Jays are a first-place team.  Toronto survived a late-season sl...

<p>After 162 games, the Toronto Blue Jays are a first-place team.</p><p>Toronto survived a late-season slump to hold off the New York Yankees and clinch both the AL East title and the AL's No. 1 seed with a 13-4 win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday.</p><p>The AL East title is the Blue Jays' seventh division crown and their first since 2015.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11875" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11875">Alejandro Kirk</a> led the way by crushing <a href="http://www.x.com/MLB/status/1972405039101825068">two home runs</a>, including a first-inning <a href="http://www.x.com/BlueJays/status/1972383874849063100">grand slam</a>, and notching a career-high six RBIs to ensure there would be a celebration in Toronto.</p><p>The Blue Jays entered Sunday needing just one win to clinch, having already won the tiebreaker from the Yankees via head-to-head record.</p><p>The 94-68 Blue Jays now get a bye to the ALDS, where they'll host the winner of the No. 4-versus-No. 5 wild-card series beginning Oct. 4 at Rogers Centre. As the AL's top seed, Toronto also earned home-field advantage through the ALCS.</p><p>The Yankees, meanwhile, are now locked in as the No. 4 seed and will host the fifth-seeded Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium on Tuesday. The meeting will mark the sixth time the bitter rivals have met in the postseason and the first since the 2021 AL wild-card game.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - SEPTEMBER 28: Shane Bieber #57 of the Toronto Blue Jays celebrates in the locker room with teammates after clinching the AL East division after their MLB game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Rogers Centre on September 28, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Blue Jays clinch 1st AL East title since 2015

The Cleveland Guardians completed one of the most remarkable in-season turnarounds ever, clinchin...

<p>The Cleveland Guardians completed one of the most remarkable in-season turnarounds ever, clinching the AL Central title Sunday after the Boston Red Sox beat the Detroit Tigers 4-3 at Fenway Park.</p><p>The Guardians, who punched their postseason ticket Saturday, will slot in as the AL's No. 3 seed and host the sixth-seeded Tigers in a best-of-three wild-card series beginning Tuesday at Progressive Field. The Tigers needed to finish above Cleveland in order to win the division after losing the head-to-head tiebreaker.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The moment the Guardians found out that they won the AL Central 👏<br><br>(via <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MLB</a>)<a href="https://t.co/MTC5zU7S6I">pic.twitter.com/MTC5zU7S6I</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/1972420407333663141?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Although the Tigers' loss clinched the division, the Guardians still took care of business, beating the Texas Rangers 9-8 on Brayan Rocchio's 10th-inning walk-off homer.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">BRAYAN ROCCHIO<br>OFF THE FOUL POLE<a href="https://twitter.com/CleGuardians?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CLEGUARDIANS</a> WIN!!! <a href="https://t.co/Z8I8O6ZPOG">pic.twitter.com/Z8I8O6ZPOG</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1972428016396669179?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It's incredible," Rocchio said through an interpreter, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3356819" href="https://thescore.com/news/3356819">The Associated Press</a>. "I think not only because of the homer and the walk off, but knowing that we were going to win the division the right way. We knew we had at that point, but winning the game was really important for us."</p><p>Cleveland was 15.5 games behind the first-place Tigers on July 8 and 10.5 back on Sept. 1. The Guardians then took off, going 21-7 during the month to catch Detroit atop the division. Their 15.5-game deficit is the largest ever erased by a team to win either its division or league (before 1968). The previous record was a 15-game deficit overcome by the 1914 NL champion Boston Braves.</p><p>The feat marks the Guardians' fourth playoff appearance and third division title<strong> </strong>since 2020. It's also the Guardians' 13th AL Central crown, by far the most since the division was formed in 1994.</p><p>The Guardians-Tigers wild-card series is a rematch of last year's ALDS, which Cleveland won in five games.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 28: The Cleveland Guardians pose for a team photo after the team's 9-8 win over the Texas Rangers in ten innings and clinching the American League Central Division at Progressive Field on September 28, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Guardians clinch AL Central to complete MLB-record turnaround

The American League playoff field is set.  The Cleveland Guardians beat the Texas Rangers 3-2 on ...

<p>The American League playoff field is set.</p><p>The Cleveland Guardians beat the Texas Rangers 3-2 on Saturday to clinch a postseason berth for the second straight year, completing their remarkable late-season turnaround. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17898" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17898">C.J. Kayfus</a> sent the Guardians to October the hard way, taking a walk-off hit-by-pitch to score the winning run in the bottom of the ninth.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GUARDSBALL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GUARDSBALL</a> is headed to October! <a href="https://t.co/gU10dZxyFv">pic.twitter.com/gU10dZxyFv</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1972119053507674232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It's exactly us. Of course we're going to get in on a walk-off hit-by-pitch," manager Stephen Vogt said postgame, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3355725" href="https://thescore.com/news/3355725">The Associated Press</a>. "Just to stop and think about where we came from to get here, there's no words. I couldn't be more proud of these guys. They've earned every bit of this."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Guardians' clinch means the Houston Astros are officially eliminated and will miss the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Houston needed to win both of its remaining games and have one of either Cleveland or the Detroit Tigers lose out. The Tigers clinched their spot earlier Saturday when they beat the Boston Red Sox.</p><p>Stephen Vogt's Guardians were 15.5 games behind the Tigers on July 8. They acted as sellers at the trade deadline and sat 10.5 games back of Detroit at the start of September. Then the Guardians caught fire, reeling off a 10-game winning streak and going 19-7 during the month to catch the Tigers and earn their fourth playoff berth since 2020.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hell of a season for the Cleveland Guardians! 👏🍾<br><br>(via <a href="https://twitter.com/CleGuardians?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CleGuardians</a>)<a href="https://t.co/1ex1Y2izK6">pic.twitter.com/1ex1Y2izK6</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/1972127024379785438?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Tigers and Guardians are now once again tied atop the AL Central at 87-74. Cleveland owns the tiebreaker between the teams, meaning it can clinch the division and home-field advantage in the wild-card series with a win Sunday. The Tigers have to finish ahead of the Guardians in order to claim the AL's No. 3 seed.</p><p>Cleveland will start <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15706" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15706">Logan Allen</a> in Sunday's season finale, according to <a href="https://x.com/ZackMeisel/status/1972126131630543179">Zack Meisel of The Athletic</a>. The decision allows the Guardians to start <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17185" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17185">Gavin Williams</a> in Game 1 of the wild-card series. Detroit is taking a similar approach, choosing to start <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8243" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8243">Chris Paddack</a> in Boston on Sunday instead of ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a>.</p><p>The Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, and Seattle Mariners make up the rest of the AL's postseason field. Seattle is locked into the No. 2 seed and will host the winner of the No. 3-versus-No. 6 wild-card series in the ALDS. The rest of the seeding and matchups will be determined Sunday.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 27: The Cleveland Guardians celebrate the team's 3-2 win over the Texas Rangers to clinch a spot in the American League Playoffs at Progressive Field on September 27, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Guardians clinch playoff berth to set AL field, Astros eliminated

The Milwaukee Brewers clinched the National League's No. 1 seed and home-field advantage througho...

<p>The Milwaukee Brewers clinched the National League's No. 1 seed and home-field advantage throughout the postseason Saturday, thanks to the Philadelphia Phillies' 5-0 loss to the Minnesota Twins.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Best record in baseball secured ✅ <a href="https://t.co/aajKYJc3Xv">pic.twitter.com/aajKYJc3Xv</a></p>— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Brewers/status/1972100031554707879?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Milwaukee, which had previously clinched a first-round bye, will open its postseason in Game 1 of the NLDS at American Family Field on Oct. 4 against the winner of the Chicago Cubs-San Diego Padres wild-card series. The Cubs and Padres are locked into a best-of-three matchup as the NL's No. 4 and No. 5 seeds beginning Tuesday at Wrigley Field.</p><p>The Brewers' MLB-best 96 wins have also tied a franchise record achieved in 2011 and 2018. This is the first time the Brewers have led the majors in wins since 1982, when they won 95 games en route to claiming the AL pennant.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Nobody expected us to win," Brewers manager Pat Murphy said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/TheGameMKE/status/1972133333997088895">97.3 The Game</a>. "We don't have the experience that would say we're going to win or maybe even the talent saying we're going to win. We just had a team, and that team ended up with the best record in baseball."</p><p>Philadelphia, meanwhile, is now locked in as the NL's No. 2 seed and will host the winner of the No. 3-versus-No. 6 wild-card series in Game 1 of the NLDS next Saturday. The NL West champion Los Angeles Dodgers will host either the Cincinnati Reds or New York Mets following that best-of-three showdown.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - AUGUST 21: The Milwaukee Brewers celebrate after their 4-1 win against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on August 21, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Brewers clinch NL's No. 1 seed, home field through World Series

After flirting with disaster all month, the Detroit Tigers are heading to October.  The Tigers cl...

<p>After flirting with disaster all month, the Detroit Tigers are heading to October.</p><p>The Tigers clinched a playoff spot Saturday after they beat the Boston Red Sox 2-1 at Fenway Park.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Detroit Tigers have clinched a spot in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Postseason?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Postseason</a>! 🐯 <a href="https://t.co/1PXeUtwgyD">pic.twitter.com/1PXeUtwgyD</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1972069106347397414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17201" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17201">Keider Montero</a> allowed one earned run and struck out seven over 4 1/3 innings, and Detroit's bullpen shut down the Red Sox the rest of the way.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Leadoff hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5584" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5584">Jahmai Jones</a> was responsible for driving in both of the Tigers' runs with a bases-loaded knock in the fifth inning.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A team that stays together is very dangerous.<br><br>The best time to be dangerous is in October. <a href="https://t.co/53obnf6DkM">pic.twitter.com/53obnf6DkM</a></p>— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) <a href="https://twitter.com/tigers/status/1972076847824547892?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Detroit managed to right the ship and make the playoffs after nearly authoring one of the biggest late-season collapses in baseball history. The Tigers were 15.5 games ahead of the Cleveland Guardians in July, and 10.5 up in early September before slumping down the stretch to let Cleveland take control of the division.</p><p>"Everybody is going to start 0-0 when the (playoff) games start. I'm going to sell that a lot because of the way we've come," Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said, according to <a href="https://x.com/EvanPetzold/status/1972084990600270234">Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press</a>.</p><p>"Our guys earned this celebration, and because of how good we were for a majority of the season, we were able to withstand a tough stretch."</p><p>At 87-74, the Tigers are now tied with Cleveland in the AL Central. Cleveland holds the tiebreaker over the Tigers, meaning Detroit must finish ahead of the Guardians to win the division.</p>

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 27: Parker Meadows #22 of the Detroit Tigers, right, celebrates with teammates after their 2-1 win over the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on September 27, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb

News Editor

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