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

Saturday, September 27, 2025

Guardians Manager Stephen Vogt Celebrates Historic Postseason Clinch After Remarkable Turnaround

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Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt, who stated in early July amidst a 10-game losing streak that a turnaround was imminent, acknowledged he "sold his team a little short" as they completed one of baseball's biggest comebacks. The Guardians clinched a postseason spot in improbable fashion with a walk-off hit by pitch. A champagne-soaked Vogt expressed immense pride in his team, stating, "It’s exactly us. Of course we’re going to get in on a walk-off hit by pitch... 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." Cleveland president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti credited Vogt and the team for climbing a "really hard mountain."

Tanner Scott Expected to Secure Spot on Dodgers' Wild-Card Roster

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Embattled closer Tanner Scott is strongly anticipated to be included on the Los Angeles Dodgers' playoff roster for the upcoming wild-card series. Manager Dave Roberts indicated on Friday night that Scott, despite past struggles, is likely to make the cut as the team finalizes its pitching staff decisions.

Clay Holmes' Stellar Saturday Performance Solidifies Starter Role, Boosts Mets' Playoff Hopes

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Clay Holmes delivered a stellar performance on Saturday afternoon against the Marlins, officially cementing his successful conversion from reliever to starter and saving the New York Mets' postseason hopes for at least one more day. Despite hitting a wall weeks prior, Holmes dug deep to pitch a gem when the team needed it most, going six innings deep as he had in April and May. He has proven to be the steadiest Mets starter, boasting a 3.53 ERA, which ranks in the NL's top 10, and throwing 165 innings—nearly 100 more than his previous high of 70 as a reliever in 2021. Manager Carlos Mendoza praised his work ethic, stating it "says a lot about the work he put in to prepare to be a starter." Holmes has established himself as a reliable asset for the remainder of his three-year contract and could potentially pitch a do-or-die Game 3 against the Dodgers in the postseason.

CJ Kayfus's Walk-Off HBP Clinches Playoff Berth for Cleveland Guardians

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On Saturday night, September 28, 2025, CJ Kayfus played a crucial role in the Cleveland Guardians' securing a playoff berth. The decisive moment occurred in the ninth inning when Kayfus was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, leading to a walk-off victory. This dramatic hit-by-pitch (HBP) directly resulted in the Guardians clinching their spot in the postseason. Kayfus's action, as reported, was the singular event that sealed the team's qualification for the playoffs, making it a memorable night for the Cleveland organization and its fans.

Matt Olson Ejected After Heated Argument Over Batter's Interference Call

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Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson was ejected on Saturday following a contentious batter's interference call in the sixth inning. Olson, along with Braves manager Brian Snitker, was tossed from the game after engaging in an argument with umpires over the ruling. The incident occurred when Olson was called out for batter's interference, leading to a heated exchange that resulted in both the star first baseman and his manager being removed from the contest. This ejection marks a notable moment for Olson, highlighting the intensity of the game and the immediate consequences of disputing umpire decisions.

Trea Turner Set to Rejoin Phillies for Regular-Season Finale Sunday

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Trea Turner is slated to rejoin the Philadelphia Phillies for their regular-season finale on Sunday, September 28, 2025, as confirmed by manager Rob Thomson. The shortstop will be back with the No. 2-seed Phillies for their matchup against the Minnesota Twins. This return marks his availability for the critical final game of the regular season, providing a boost to the team as they conclude their schedule.

Hunter Brown Emerges as Astros' Ace, Leads Pitching Staff, Earns All-Star Nod

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Hunter Brown solidified his role as the Houston Astros' staff ace in 2025, leading the team in ERA, WHIP, and strikeouts. His dominant performance was a cornerstone of an Astros pitching staff that recorded more strikeouts than any other team. Brown's breakout season earned him his first All-Star Game selection, though he was unable to participate. As the Astros look to the 2026 season, Brown is considered a reliable starter, with the team needing to reinforce the rotation behind him. In fantasy baseball, he is expected to be a high-value pick, likely in Rounds 3-4, and is projected as a top-10 pitcher due to his consistent performance and safer outlook compared to other high-upside but injury-prone players.

Cubs' Rookie Sensation Cade Horton Lands on IL with Rib Fracture, Misses Playoffs

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Chicago Cubs' right-hander Cade Horton, a leading contender for NL Rookie of the Year, was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right rib fracture, effective retroactively to Thursday. This injury sidelines the 24-year-old, a 2022 first-round pick, for the Cubs' crucial first-round playoff series against San Diego, marking a significant blow for the team's first postseason appearance since 2020. Horton had an impressive season, boasting an 8-1 record with a 1.03 ERA in 12 starts post-All-Star break, and an overall 11-4 record with a 2.67 ERA. He exited his September 23rd start due to back tightness, which manager Craig Counsell attributed to coughing from a prior illness. Despite his desire to pitch, discomfort during throwing on Saturday confirmed his inability to continue, with his return timeline currently uncertain.

Jahmai Jones' Clutch Two-Run Single Secures Tigers' Playoff Berth

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Jahmai Jones delivered a pivotal performance on September 28, 2025, hitting a crucial two-run single that significantly contributed to the Detroit Tigers' 2-1 victory against the Boston Red Sox. His clutch hit was instrumental in rallying the struggling Tigers from an early deficit, ultimately allowing the team to secure a spot in the American League playoffs for the second straight season. Jones' timely offensive contribution ensured the Detroit Tigers' continued postseason contention, marking him as a key player in their recent success.

Brewers Closer Trevor Megill Expected to Pitch Sunday, Playoff Readiness Assessed

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Milwaukee Brewers closer Trevor Megill is expected to pitch in the team's regular-season finale on Sunday, September 28, 2025. The Brewers organization is keen to have Megill take the mound as they evaluate his readiness for the upcoming playoffs. This appearance will be crucial for assessing his form and availability as the team eyes a postseason run. The decision to have him pitch reflects the team's strategy to ensure their key relief pitcher is prepared for high-stakes playoff games.

Mets Tap Sean Manaea for Crucial Sunday Start with Postseason Berth on the Line

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New York Mets left-hander Sean Manaea has been named the starting pitcher for Sunday's regular season finale against the Marlins, a pivotal game with the team's postseason hopes hanging in the balance. Manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed Manaea's role after Saturday's win, as the Mets aim to secure a wild-card spot, potentially needing a win and a Reds loss. Manaea's season has been challenging, starting on the IL and pitching through a loose elbow. In 14 appearances, including 11 starts, he holds a 5.80 ERA and 1.22 WHIP. His recent outings include allowing two runs in one inning against the Cubs and three runs in three innings against the Nationals. Despite his struggles, he's tasked with a critical performance, with David Peterson also available out of the bullpen.

Yankees Rookie Cam Schlittler Makes Strong Case for Pivotal Playoff Game 3 Start

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New York Yankees rookie pitcher Cam Schlittler delivered his best outing of the season on Saturday, throwing seven shutout innings against the Baltimore Orioles, allowing just two hits and one walk while striking out nine in a 6-1 victory. This stellar performance lowered his season ERA to 2.96 and significantly bolstered his candidacy for a crucial Game 3 playoff start. Manager Aaron Boone praised Schlittler's 'great stuff' and ability to mix pitches effectively, noting his confidence and competitiveness. Schlittler, aware of the high stakes in the division race, embraced the pressure, stating it 'locks me in a little more.' Boone confirmed he has 'absolute' confidence in Schlittler to take the mound in a pivotal postseason Game 3, despite other options like Will Warren and Luis Gil.

Orioles' Grant Wolfram Hits Jazz Chisholm Jr., Forcing Yankees Star's Exit

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Baltimore Orioles pitcher Grant Wolfram was involved in a notable play during Saturday's game against the New York Yankees. In the fifth inning, Wolfram hit Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. on the left forearm with a pitch. The impact led to Chisholm Jr.'s early departure from the game, as confirmed by reports. This incident marked a significant moment in the contest, directly impacting the Yankees' lineup and drawing attention to the Orioles' pitching performance.

Yankees' Jazz Chisholm Jr. Exits Game After Being Hit by Pitch

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New York Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. was forced to leave Saturday's game against the Baltimore Orioles in the fifth inning. Chisholm Jr. sustained an injury to his left forearm after being hit by a pitch thrown by Orioles pitcher Grant Wolfram. The incident occurred during the bottom of the fifth, leading to his early departure from the contest. This development was reported across multiple sources, confirming his exit due to the impact and raising concerns about his status.

Mets Infielder Brett Baty Placed on Injured List, Regular Season Concludes Early

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New York Mets infielder Brett Baty has been placed on the injured list with a strained right oblique, a move that effectively brings his regular season to an end. The team announced the decision on September 27, 2025, ahead of a crucial final stretch. This injury sidelines Baty, preventing him from contributing further to the Mets' efforts as their season progresses. The strained right oblique is a significant setback for the young infielder, marking an unfortunate conclusion to his regular season campaign.

Aaron Judge Continues MVP Push with 53rd Homer, Three RBIs in Yankees Win

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New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge delivered another stellar performance on Saturday, fueling the team's 6-1 victory over the Baltimore Orioles. Judge, a leading AL MVP candidate, launched his 53rd home run of the season with a solo shot in the first inning, marking his ninth homer in the last month. He further extended the Yankees' lead with a two-run bases-loaded single, ultimately driving in three of New York's six runs. Judge concluded the day 2-for-4, showcasing his consistent power and clutch hitting as the regular season nears its end.

Cal Raleigh's Record-Breaking Power and Defense Highlight MVP Case

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Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh is a formidable AL MVP candidate, recognized for his record-breaking power and defensive prowess. On Friday, September 26, 2025, he recorded his 84th extra-base hit with a double. Raleigh has blasted 60 home runs with two games left, significantly surpassing Salvador Peréz's previous catcher record of 48 in 2021. His 171 OPS+ ranks third in MLB. Defensively, Baseball Savant rates him as the fifth-best pitch framer and an above-average thrower, though his numbers are slightly down from his 2024 Gold Glove season. His WAR stands at 9.1 (FanGraphs) and 7.2 (Baseball Reference), solidifying his status as a top-five defensive catcher.

Mets Prospect Dylan Ross Recalled, Ready to Bring Fearless Mentality to Bullpen

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New York Mets prospect Dylan Ross has been officially recalled to the big leagues, joining the team ahead of Saturday's contest against the Miami Marlins. The 24-year-old right-hander, a 13th-round pick in the 2022 Draft out of the University of Georgia, has overcome a significant journey, missing the entire 2023 season after Tommy John surgery and a revision procedure, and pitching just one inning in 2024. The 2025 campaign marked a major bounce-back, as Ross emerged as one of the Mets' top relief arms, posting a 2.17 ERA with 80 strikeouts across 49 minor league outings at three different levels. Despite the Mets' desperate fight for a playoff spot with only two games remaining, Ross expressed a fearless mentality, stating, "I don’t care who you are, I’m going to come after you and attack you," and is not nervous about being thrown into high-pressure situations.

Mets Designate Pitcher Kevin Herget for Assignment Amidst Roster Changes

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New York Mets pitcher Kevin Herget was designated for assignment on September 27, 2025. This roster move occurred as the Mets called up hard-throwing relief prospect Dylan Ross from Triple-A Syracuse. Herget's designation clears a spot on the 40-man roster, allowing the Mets to bolster their bullpen with Ross ahead of a crucial weekend series against the Miami Marlins. The team is making late-season adjustments as they contend for a postseason spot, necessitating the change in their pitching staff.

Justin Verlander Remains Optimistic for 300 Wins After Turbulent Giants Season

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San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander, despite a turbulent first season with the team, remains optimistic about reaching the 300-win milestone. The 43-year-old, who currently sits at 266 career wins, finished his 2025 season with a 4-11 record over 29 starts, marking the first time in his 20-year career he failed to achieve double-digit wins in over 20 starts. Verlander faced challenges, including receiving three or fewer runs of support in 23 starts and leading the majors with seven starts where he left with a lead but didn't earn a win. However, he showed strong form late in the season, posting a 1.96 ERA in his final seven outings after making mechanical adjustments. Verlander, who enjoyed his time with the Giants, prefers year-to-year contracts and hopes lessons from this season will propel him towards his goal, with manager Bob Melvin expressing hope for a reunion.