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MLB News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Friday, October 3, 2025

Phillies' Cristopher Sánchez to Start NLDS Game 1 Against Shohei Ohtani

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Cristopher Sánchez will take the mound for the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 1 of the National League Division Series, facing Shohei Ohtani in a marquee pitching matchup. Catcher J.T. Realmuto highlighted Sánchez's growth, noting, "His confidence has just grown and grown. He’s always had really good stuff, but his command has gotten better, and that in turn has given him more confidence. He’s able to throw all three pitches where he wants, and that’s made him take another step." Sánchez admitted he has leaned on teammate Zack Wheeler, calling him his favorite pitcher, and noted Wheeler's recent support, saying, "He was here yesterday. He was really excited for me and everything that’s been going on with my career recently." Regarding facing Ohtani again after a challenging prior matchup, Sánchez stated his focus is on "controlling my emotions and performing out there."

Mookie Betts Overcomes Career-Worst Season, Finds Rebirth as Dodgers' Playoff Shortstop

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Mookie Betts endured "arguably one of the worst years of his career," posting personal lows of a .258 batting average and .732 OPS, missing the All-Star Game for the first time in a decade. His struggles originated from an early-season stomach virus, causing 20-pound weight loss and diminished strength, compounded by the mental and physical demands of learning shortstop. Betts, initially downplaying the shortstop impact, later acknowledged the challenge of balancing offense and defense at the new position, where he "had to think about everything." After declaring his season "lost" in early August, a mindset shift, regaining strength, and extensive work with hitting coaches and J.D. Martinez fueled a significant rebirth. Over his final 47 regular-season games, he batted .317, nearly doubling his home run total from 11 to 20, and posted a .901 OPS during the Dodgers' 15-5 finish. In the Wild Card sweep of the Cincinnati Reds, Betts recorded six hits, three doubles, and three RBIs. He also led all MLB shortstops in defensive runs saved, expressing pride in his defensive achievement. Betts now enters the NLDS with a hot bat and a "different level of focus."

Ryan McMahon's Daring Dugout Catch Propels Yankees to Division Series

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New York Yankees third baseman Ryan McMahon made a courageous, highlight-reel catch in the eighth inning of Game 3 of the AL Wild Card Series against Boston, flipping head over heels into the Red Sox dugout to secure a crucial out. This play helped the Yankees clinch a 4-0 win, advancing them to the Division Series against Toronto. McMahon, who entered the game defensively in the sixth inning for Amed Rosario, stated he “didn’t feel anything” and was “excited to make the play” for rookie starter Cam Schlittler. Teammates Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Judge praised his effort, with Judge noting, “It’s plays like that in crunch time, that’s why you go out and get a guy like that.” An All-Star last year, McMahon was acquired from the Colorado Rockies on July 23 to bolster defense and provide a left-handed bat, hitting .208 with a .971 fielding percentage in 54 regular-season games for New York.

Dillon Dingler's Go-Ahead Homer and Defense Clinch Wild Card for Tigers

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Detroit Tigers catcher Dillon Dingler, a lifelong Cleveland Guardians fan, delivered a pivotal go-ahead solo home run in the sixth inning and threw out José Ramírez attempting to steal second, leading the Tigers to a 6-3 victory over Cleveland in the decisive Game 3 of their AL Wild Card Series. This win advanced Detroit to the Division Series for the second consecutive season. Dingler, who had been hitless in the series, launched a 401-foot homer, becoming the first Detroit batter since Nick Castellanos in 2014 to hit his first postseason home run as a go-ahead shot. The second-year catcher, who turned 27 on September 17, became the everyday catcher after Jake Rogers' injury, finishing the regular season with a .278 average, 13 home runs, and 57 RBIs in 126 games. Manager A.J. Hinch lauded his “exceptional” offensive contributions and the trust he’s earned from pitchers, with Kyle Finnegan praising his calming presence.

Dansby Swanson's Stellar Defense Leads Cubs to NL Wild Card Series Victory

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Dansby Swanson was instrumental in the Chicago Cubs' NL Wild Card Series triumph, drawing significant praise for his exceptional defensive plays. San Diego manager Mike Shildt stated, “We play great defense, but Dansby Swanson absolutely beat us with his glove this series.” Swanson, a two-time Gold Glove winner, consistently positioned himself correctly to make plays on grounders, liners, and popups. His leadership on defense was a key factor in the Cubs' clinching 3-1 victory, contributing to a series where defense overshadowed offense. Swanson highlighted the importance of limiting opponents' chances through strong fielding, stating, “When you can limit their chances because you catch the ball, it makes a difference.” He made notable plays, including knocking down Luis Arraez's leadoff liner and making a slick stop on another Arraez grounder, and erasing Jackson Merrill with a 6-3 double play. In Game 1, Swanson also made a crucial over-the-shoulder catch on Ryan O’Hearn’s soft liner. Cubs manager Craig Counsell specifically lauded the middle infielders, including Swanson and second baseman Nico Hoerner, for their contributions. Swanson, a 2021 World Series winner with Atlanta, emphasized that strong defense is a team staple, enabling them to get to 27 outs quicker and win more games. The Cubs' defense, a team identity throughout their 92-70 season, also featured strong performances from Nico Hoerner, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Ian Happ, Kyle Tucker (serving as DH due to a calf injury), Matt Shaw, Michael Busch, and Carson Kelly.

Cal Raleigh: Mariners' Platinum Glove Catcher, Record-Setting Hitter, and 'Beef Boys' Founder

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Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, a Rawlings Platinum Glove winner and switch-hitter who blasted a Mariners-record 60 home runs this year, is also known as the founder of the 'Beef Boys.' This exclusive group, formed in 2019 during his time with the Class A Advanced Modesto Nuts, had an anthem penned by Raleigh himself, a food-centric rendition of Dobie Gray’s “Drift Away.” Broadcaster Keaton Gillogly described the 'Beef Boys' as “goofy southern dudes” who hit “big bombs.” Raleigh, along with Keegan McGovern, forged the group in the gym. He famously revealed his song lyrics one per home run, hitting nine homers in 11 games for Modesto before a Double-A promotion. Now five seasons into his MLB career, Raleigh has slugged 153 'Beef Boy bombs' and is considered an AL MVP contender, praised for his exceptional catching and work ethic.

Tigers' Tarik Skubal Recognized as Wild Card Series Standout

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Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal has been prominently featured as a standout performer in the MLB Wild Card Series. While the Wild Card Series MVP is explicitly noted as not being a *real* or official award, Skubal was still recognized and included among the top first-round players receiving these honorary distinctions. This highlights his exceptional play and impact during the series, earning him an unofficial MVP nod from evaluators.

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Yankees Rookie Cam Schlittler Delivers Historic Postseason Gem Against Red Sox

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New York Yankees rookie Cam Schlittler, 24, delivered a historic performance in a winner-take-all wild-card Game 3 against the Boston Red Sox, securing a 4-0 victory. In his 15th big-league start, Schlittler pitched eight brilliant, scoreless innings, striking out 12 hitters without a walk, featuring a 98.9 mph fastball. He received a standing ovation, becoming the first Yankees starter since CC Sabathia (2012) to reemerge for the eighth with a lead in a home playoff game. Schlittler set multiple records: first pitcher age 24 or younger with 12 strikeouts and no runs in a postseason game, and the first ever with 12 strikeouts, zero walks, and eight scoreless innings in an MLB postseason game. His 18 swing-and-misses were the most by a rookie in a playoff start since Noah Syndergaard (2015). Manager Aaron Boone praised his command, while injured ace Gerrit Cole, who pushed Schlittler to the front of the celebration, declared, "That was his game, man." Schlittler's rapid ascent from a 2022 seventh-round pick with an 89 mph fastball to a postseason hero, fueled by a 20-pound muscle gain and velocity jump, now positions him for a potential Game 4 start against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Xander Bogaerts Blasts 'Terrible' Missed Call After Padres' Playoff Elimination

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San Diego Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts vehemently criticized a 'terrible' missed ball-strike call in the ninth inning of Game 3 against the Chicago Cubs, which ended the Padres' 2025 season. After Jackson Merrill's solo homer, Bogaerts, with a full count, was called out on a pitch tracked as a ball by umpire D.J. Reyburn. Bogaerts argued the call, stating to the San Diego Union-Tribune, 'It’s a ball. Messed up the whole game... Thank God for ABS next year, because this is terrible.' The controversial strikeout was significant as the next two batters were hit, meaning a walk would have loaded the bases with no outs instead of two runners on with one out. While not the sole reason for the 3-1 loss, the incident highlighted player anticipation for the automatic ball-strike challenge system in 2026. The Padres now face a difficult offseason after falling short of the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West.

Giancarlo Stanton Reflects on 'Bonehead' Premature Home Run Celebration in Yankees' Win

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New York Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton poked fun at his 'bonehead' premature home run celebration during Thursday's 4-0 Wild Card Game 3 victory over the Red Sox. Leading off the second inning, Stanton launched a curveball from Connelly Early deep to left center field, hitting it 114.5 mph and 393 feet. He initially thought it was a home run and began hyping his dugout, but the ball hit off the middle of the wall due to insufficient launch angle, resulting in a double. Stanton quickly hustled to second base. In a post-game interview with YES Network's Meredith Marakovits, he stated, "The only doubt was if that was a homer or not whenever I hit it... Bonehead play. Just glad it worked in our favor and it won't happen again." This double was his only hit of the game, but he appeared much more comfortable at the plate after entering Game 3 0-for-8 with two strikeouts. The Yankees will rely on his power when they face the Blue Jays in the ALDS starting Saturday.

Cody Bellinger Receiving Foot Treatment, Expected Ready for Yankees' ALDS Game 1

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New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger is undergoing treatment on his foot following Thursday's Game 3 Wild Card series win against the Red Sox, where he was seen limping at times during the series-clinching victory. Despite this, Bryan Hoch of MLB Network reported that Bellinger expects to be ready for Saturday's ALDS Game 1. His status was never truly in doubt, which is an encouraging sign for the Yankees. Bellinger was a consistent contributor in the Wild Card series, recording hits in all three games. His bloop double on Thursday night was crucial in sparking the decisive four-run fourth inning rally. Post-game, Bellinger expressed his satisfaction with the series, stating, "That was such a fun series... The atmosphere was incredible, it was just so fun. Some really good baseball games and I was just excited we were able to come out in top today, it feels really good."

Dansby Swanson's Gold Glove Defense Dominates Wild Card Series for Cubs

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Dansby Swanson was a defensive standout for the Chicago Cubs in their wild-card series victory over the San Diego Padres, particularly shining in Game 3. As a Gold Glove Award winner, Swanson's elite glove work at shortstop, alongside Nico Hoerner and Pete Crow-Armstrong, solidified the Cubs' superior up-the-middle defense. He made crucial leaping grabs and over-the-shoulder catches, effectively stifling Padres rallies. Padres manager Mike Shildt lauded his performance, stating, "I don't think they give an MVP for defense this round, but I'd give it to Swanson. Dansby played his tail off, man. He almost single-handedly beat us with his glove." Swanson expressed his joy for postseason competition, remarking, "These moments never get old. Being able to compete on a stage like this is literally the most fun you'll ever have in your life."

Michael Busch's Clutch Home Run Propels Cubs to NLDS, Expresses Excitement for Brewers Matchup

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Michael Busch delivered a pivotal moment for the Chicago Cubs in their 3-1 Game 3 wild-card victory over the San Diego Padres. In the bottom of the seventh inning, with the Cubs holding a slim 2-0 lead, Busch hammered a deep drive off Padres’ reliever Robert Suarez into the right-field bleachers, causing the Wrigley Field crowd to erupt and the stadium to shake. Busch embraced the electrifying atmosphere, stating, "You just feed off of it. You feed off of the moment. You feed off your teammates. You feed off the fans." His crucial home run helped the Cubs advance to the NLDS. Looking ahead to the division rival Milwaukee Brewers, Busch expressed anticipation, noting, "I expect it to be a good one. ... It's kind of the next step. This was one goal that we had, but there's plenty more in front of us."

Max Fried Set to Pitch Game 2 for Yankees in ALDS

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Max Fried is confirmed to be part of the New York Yankees' American League Division Series rotation. He is specifically lined up to pitch Game 2 of the series. The Yankees' manager Aaron Boone and staff are still deciding on the Game 1 starter between Luis Gil and Will Warren, but Fried's role in Game 2 is set, indicating a crucial spot in the team's playoff strategy as they prepare to face their opponent in the next round.

Ryan McMahon Makes 'Unreal' Diving Catch, Flips into Dugout for Yankees

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New York Yankees third baseman Ryan McMahon made a spectacular, "unreal" defensive play in the eighth inning of Game 3 of the Wild Card series against the Red Sox. Entering the game late for Amed Rosario for defensive purposes, McMahon caught a pop-up by Jarren Duran in foul territory, then flipped into the Red Sox dugout while holding onto the ball for the second out. He explained, "I knew I was getting close, but I felt like I couldn’t slow down. Just kept going, just trying to get outs for Cam." Teammates lauded the play, with Giancarlo Stanton calling it "unreal," Jazz Chisholm Jr. saying it was "crazy" and "sick," and Aaron Judge emphasizing, "That’s why we got him... it’s plays like that in crunch time."

Dillon Dingler's First Postseason Homer Powers Tigers to Wild-Card Series Victory

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Dillon Dingler, a 27-year-old Massilon, Ohio, native and 2020 second-round pick, delivered his first career postseason hit, home run, and RBI in a crucial moment for the Detroit Tigers. After starting the AL wild-card series against the Cleveland Guardians 0-for-9, Dingler hit a 401-foot solo shot to left-center in the top of the sixth inning at Progressive Field, giving Detroit a 2-1 lead. This blast, which came two innings after he threw out José Ramírez attempting to steal, broke a tie and ignited the Tigers' offense. Detroit, which had left 15 runners on base in a Game 2 defeat, recorded more hits with runners in scoring position in the seventh inning than it had all series, securing a 6-3 victory on Thursday. Despite the Guardians winning the AL Central after overcoming a 15.5-game July lead by the Tigers, Detroit is advancing to face the Seattle Mariners in the ALDS.

Ben Rice Starts Game 3 Against Lefty, Yankees Manager Cites Hot Bat

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New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed Ben Rice would start at first base, batting fifth, in Thursday's do-or-die Game 3 against the Red Sox, facing left-hander Connelly Early. This decision, reported earlier by SNY MLB Insider Andy Martino, was tough but swayed by Rice's recent performance. Boone highlighted Rice's "hot bat," "impact," and "presence in the box" over the last few weeks, emphasizing the desire for lineup balance and to keep Austin Wells behind the plate. Despite hitting just .189 against southpaws this season, Rice has hit three home runs in his last two games. Boone also noted the availability of "Goldy" on the bench as a weapon for big spots or late-game defense.

Roki Sasaki Dazzles in Postseason Debut, Securing Dodgers' NLDS Berth

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Roki Sasaki, the 23-year-old rookie from Japan, made a dazzling postseason pitching debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers, closing out their NL Wild Card Series sweep of the Cincinnati Reds with a perfect ninth inning. He struck out Spencer Steer and former Dodger Gavin Lux with 100-mph pitches before retiring Austin Hays on a lineout, leading to an 8-4 victory and advancing the Dodgers to the National League Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. Manager Dave Roberts expressed trust in Sasaki for leverage situations, noting the moment wouldn't be too big for him. This strong performance followed a rookie season filled with ups and downs; Sasaki signed a minor league deal in January with a $6.5 million bonus and spent four seasons in the Nippon Professional Baseball League. His MLB debut in Tokyo saw him walk five in three innings, and his Dodger Stadium debut on March 29 also involved control struggles. He came off the 60-day injured list on September 24, making his first career relief appearance against Arizona after a shoulder injury, having previously made eight MLB starts and some relief appearances at Triple-A Oklahoma City.

Jazz Chisholm Jr. Shines in Yankees' Playoff Win, Set to Start Decisive Game 3

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New York Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. played a pivotal role in saving the team's season, contributing significantly to their 4-3 victory over the Boston Red Sox in Game 2 of the AL Wild Card Series. Chisholm, who expressed unhappiness about being left out of the Game 1 starting lineup against ace lefty Garrett Crochet, entered that game defensively in the eighth and flied out with the bases loaded in his only plate appearance during the 3-1 loss. Manager Aaron Boone had texted Chisholm about the Game 1 decision, leading to a disagreement, though both affirmed their good relationship, with Chisholm stating he always stands with Boone despite being a passionate player who wears his feelings on his sleeve. Returning to the lineup for Game 2 against right-hander Brayan Bello, Chisholm, batting sixth, made a dynamic impact. He raced home from first base on Austin Wells’ tiebreaking single in the eighth inning, barely beating the throw with a headfirst slide, a play reliever Fernando Cruz called "special." Defensively, he made a diving stop in the seventh to save a run and initiated an inning-ending double play in the third. Captain Aaron Judge praised Chisholm as a "game-changer" who showed maturity. Following his Game 2 heroics, manager Aaron Boone confirmed Chisholm will start Game 3 against rookie left-hander Connelly Early.

Scouts Eye Kyle Schwarber as Key Solution for Mets, Phillies Face Battle to Retain DH Star

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MLB scouts view Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber as a potential solution for the New York Mets' offensive challenges, with one scout suggesting Mets owner Steve Cohen should "pay whatever it would take" to acquire him. Schwarber, described as the best DH in baseball, hit 56 home runs and led MLB with 132 RBI this season, establishing himself as a "folk hero" in Philadelphia. Phillies owner John Middleton is expected to "go the extra mile" to retain him, as losing Schwarber to a rival like the Mets would be unforgivable to fans and difficult given Schwarber's role as the "heart and soul" of the team. However, the possibility of Cohen pursuing Schwarber aggressively, similar to his pursuit of Juan Soto, could "scare the hell out of Philly fans," though it might require "crazy money." Acquiring Schwarber could allow the Mets to move on from Pete Alonso, as signing both is unlikely.