MLB Baseball 8-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 8, 2026, 4:57 AM ET
Division Series Recap
The Brewers advanced to the NLCS after a win over the Padres, with Garrett Mitchell robbing Manny Machado of a potential game-tying home run in the late innings. Milwaukee now sets up a rematch with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Earlier, the Padres fought back in front of a raucous home crowd that serenaded the team with a Blink-182 chant, moving Tom DeLonge to tears.
The Dodgers reached a third straight NLCS with a 4-1 victory over the Braves in Game. Andy Pages, batting ninth, delivered the decisive clutch hit, a moment that underscored Los Angeles' depth. Miguel Rojas was held out of the lineup with a back issue, while Ronald Acuna Jr. moved into right field for Atlanta.
American League
The Yankees' season ended in a sweep, and the Rays continued their dominance over New York. Victor Mesa Jr. hit the home run that effectively closed out the series. A fan-interference call in the sixth inning also drew attention, as New York lost out on a potential tying two-run blast. Aaron Judge watched the finish from the home dugout and called for an all-in offseason from the front office.
In Cleveland, Jose Ramirez carried the Guardians to a do-or-die Game 3 win, keeping their season alive with a performance that covered every part of the lineup. Live coverage of the Rays' rally and the other elimination games is available here.
Managerial Moves and Honors
Alex Cora again declined the chance to manage the Phillies and plans to take the 2027 season off. In a separate development, President Donald Trump announced he would award Roger Clemens the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Labor and Bullpen Notes
The postseason has also sparked debate about the 2026 collective bargaining agreement, with players and executives weighing whether a Dodgers three-peat strengthens the case for a salary cap. On the Padres side, closer Mason Miller returned from the paternity list and was available to pitch in Game. Early analysis of the playoffs is worth a look as well, with experts weighing in on the first week's standout performances.