Last updated: September 29, 2026, 2:23 PM ET
Wild Card Series
The 2026 MLB playoffs are underway, and the Red Sox are turning to rookie left-hander Payton Tolle to start Game 1 against the Yankees. New York will be without Aaron Judge for the series, though Giancarlo Stanton is on the roster. Judge did take batting practice in a push to play, but the Yankees will proceed without him. For the Red Sox, lefty Garrett Crochet, out since April with an injury, is available out of the bullpen. The Cubs have Matthew Boyd starting Game 1 opposite Padres righty Michael King, with Alex Bregman's status at third base still uncertain. The Phillies will be without Luis Arraez due to an ankle injury, and Jesús Luzardo gets the Game 1 start. Follow all the action with live updates from the wild-card games.
Injury Updates & Roster Moves
Across the league, the Rangers' Corey Seager has a bone spur in his elbow and may need minor surgery, according to club president. Astros owner Jim Crane said the team's playoff berth will factor into the decision on manager Joe Espada's future. Mets president David Stearns expressed no regrets over Pete Alonso's exit, stating there are no mulligans. Meanwhile, the potential MLB game at Grand Teton National Park has drawn criticism from politicians and environmental groups.
Predictions & Analysis
Our MLB experts have made their predictions from the wild cards to the World Series, including odds and likely MVPs for all 12 playoff teams. For a deeper dive, check out the comprehensive playoff preview with World Series odds and team predictions. In fantasy baseball, Eric Karabell handed out his MVPs and LVPs for hitters and pitchers, highlighting players like Crow-Armstrong and Ohtani. On the statistical front, fastball velocity in Major League Baseball hit a record high for the sixth straight season.