MLB Baseball 8-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 1, 2026, 10:20 PM ET
ALDS Preview: Kerr Set for Playoff Debut
Braves left-hander Ray Kerr will make his first career postseason appearance in Game 3 against the Phillies, with Aaron Nola starting for Philadelphia. The rookie pitcher earned the call after a strong September stretch, giving Atlanta a fresh arm in a pivotal series matchup.
Guardians Turn to Rookies for ALDS Opener
Cleveland will start rookie left-hander Parker Messick in Game 1 of the ALDS against the White Sox, with Triston McKenzie expected to follow in Game. The Guardians are relying on their young pitching duo to spark the series after a regular season that saw both arms develop into key contributors.
Gray Voices Frustration Over Early Hook
Red Sox ace Sonny Gray said he was frustrated by manager Alex Cora’s decision to pull him after just four innings in Wednesday’s loss to the Yankees, citing a lack of trust despite allowing only two runs. Gray’s comments highlight growing tension between the veteran pitcher and Boston’s coaching staff.
Judge Blocks Wrigley Rooftop Ticket Sales
A federal judge ruled that a rooftop business across from Wrigley Field cannot sell Cubs tickets, ending a long-standing dispute over unauthorized ticket resales. The ruling prevents the rooftop operation from profiting from Cubs games, reinforcing the team’s exclusive ticketing rights under MLB regulations.
White Sox End 21-Year Playoff Drought
Chicago completed a sweep of the Astros to win their first playoff series since 2005, with Dylan Cease shutting down Houston in Game. The victory ended a two-decade drought and marked a stunning turnaround for a team that lost 121 games just two seasons prior.
Padres Silence Cubs in Wild Card Sweep
San Diego advanced past Chicago with a two-game sweep, holding the Cubs to just five hits across both games as Gavin Sheets delivered a pinch-hit home run in Game. The Padres prevailed thanks to a balanced pitching effort that limited Chicago’s offense and set up a potential NLDS matchup with the Dodgers.
Yankees Sweep Red Sox, Set Up ALDS Clash with Rays
New York defeated Boston in a three-game sweep, powered by homegrown stars Ben Rice and Cam Schlittler, who combined for key hits and defensive plays throughout the series. The win advanced the Yankees to the ALDS, where they will face the Tampa Bay Rays in a battle of AL East rivals.