A federal judge on Tuesday dismissed NASCAR's counterclaim against the two teams suing the racing...

<div>
A federal judge on Tuesday dismissed NASCAR's counterclaim against the two teams suing the racing series over antitrust allegations. 
U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell issued the summary judgment in favor of 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, dismissing NASCAR's claim that 23XI co-owner Curtis Polk illegally colluded with other teams during negotiations for new charters. 
23XI is also owned by NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan and three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin, and Polk is Jordan's longtime business manager. Polk was also part of a four-member negotiating team that worked with NASCAR during two-plus years on the charter agreement signed by 13 of 15 organizations last year. 
<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>
NASCAR argued in its countersuit that a 2023 boycott of the team owners council meeting negatively impacted its media rights negotiations, and that by the 15 organizations unifying for the charter talks, the teams got a better deal than they could have gotten if NASCAR negotiated with the teams separately.
Bell found the boycott to be a negotiating tactic “which appeared to have little impact" because NASCAR started individual negotiations shortly after. 
Bell also found that 23XI and FRM did not participate in “unreasonable restraint of trade” because NASCAR's individual meetings with the teams did result in some changes to the charter agreement, and because all the charter agreements would be the same among all the teams, that the teams working together in negotiations would be reasonable.
“The evidence here establishes that not only were individual negotiations ‘available,’ but NASCAR had such negotiations regularly during the negotiation period,” Bell wrote in his order. “And, those individual negotiations achieved concrete results, including the final 2025 Charter agreement that was signed by 13 teams acting individually (and contrary to the supposed 'joint agreement')."
Bell must also rule on two other summary judgment motions, one by NASCAR asking for a ruling in its favor and one from 23XI and FRM to designate the market as “premier stock-car racing.”
Two days of mediation last week failed to end this contentious feud and the case is still scheduled for a Dec. 1 trial date in North Carolina.
23XI and FRM are the only two organizations out of 15 that refused to sign extensions on charters, which are at the heart of NASCAR’s business model. A chartered car is guaranteed revenue and access to weekly races, and without them both teams say they will almost surely go out of business.
“Today’s decision has only reaffirmed my clients’ unwavering pursuit of a more fair and equitable sport,” 23XI/FRM attorney Jeffrey Kessler said in a statement. “Their determination remains strong as we continue our efforts for a resolution that benefits everyone — teams, drivers, employees, partners and fans.”
NASCAR indicated in its statement that it is still hopeful of a settlement. The season ends with Sunday's championship finale at Phoenix and Hamlin is one of four drivers eligible for the Cup title. 
“We respect the Court’s decision, though we respectfully disagree with its legal reasoning,” NASCAR said. “Our priority remains resolving this matter quickly so all parties can focus on Championship weekend and continuing to grow the sport.
“Should a resolution not be reached, we intend to appeal the decision at the appropriate time.”
___ AP auto racing: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing">https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing</a>
</div>

AVONDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 09: Michael Jordan smiles while talking to Tyler Reddick (#45 23XI Racing The Beast Unleashed Toyota) before qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race on November 9, 2024 at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Arizona.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33021556/related

Judge dismisses NASCAR's counterclaim against 2 teams

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed Tuesday that he was close to making an unpreced...

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed Tuesday that he was close to making an unprecedented move during Monday's marathon Game 3 of the World Series.Roberts said infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2083" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2083">Miguel Rojas</a> would've been the next pitching option in the 19th inning if <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17234" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17234">Yoshinobu Yamamoto</a> was unable to go after throwing a complete game in Saturday's victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. The Japanese right-hander was seen warming up in the bullpen Monday before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1412" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1412">Freddie Freeman</a> hit an 18th-inning walk-off homer."If Yamamoto couldn't have taken the ball in the 19th, it would've been Miguel Rojas. … It would've been Yamamoto or Miguel Rojas in a World Series game," Roberts said, according to <a href="https://x.com/FabianArdaya/status/1983277835726049625">Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>A position player has never thrown a pitch in the World Series. However, the Dodgers used every single reliever in their bullpen. Right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17211" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17211">Will Klein</a> picked up the win after allowing one hit with two walks and five strikeouts over four innings on a career-high 72 pitches.Monday's contest was the second-longest game in World Series history at 6 hours and 39 minutes. Game 3 of the 2018 Fall Classic between the Dodgers and Boston Red Sox also went 18 innings but took 7 hours and 20 minutes to complete.Los Angeles is up 2-1 in the best-of-seven series. Game 4 goes Tuesday at 8:00 p.m. ET.

LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 13: Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Miguel Rojas (72) pitches from the mound in the ninth inning during the game between Oakland Athletics and the Los Angeles Dodgers on May 13, 2025, at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33021477/related

Dodgers' Roberts: Yamamoto or Rojas would've pitched in 19th

The Toronto Blue Jays expect Bo Bichette to be back in the lineup and starting at second base for...

The Toronto Blue Jays expect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> to be back in the lineup and starting at second base for Game 3 of the World Series on Monday against the Los Angeles Dodgers, manager John Schneider said Sunday."Doing well. Expecting him to be in there," Schneider said. "He's out here working out today. Felt good coming out of yesterday. I think with each day that goes on, he'll probably get as close to normal as he can at this stage of the year. But the fact that he's out here working out today is a good sign and expect him to be in there tomorrow."Bichette wasn't in the starting lineup during Saturday's Game 2 loss but made a pinch-hit appearance in the seventh. He grounded out to end the inning in his only at-bat. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"He's going to play second base tomorrow," Schneider said. The 27-year-old started Friday's Game 1 win, going 1-for-2 with a walk in his first contest since suffering a knee sprain in early September. He was eventually lifted for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4693" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4693">Isiah Kiner-Falefa</a>.Bichette hit .311/.357/.483 with 18 homers, 44 doubles, and 94 RBIs in 139 games during the regular season.The two-time All-Star will be a free agent at the conclusion of the World Series.

TORONTO, ONTARIO - OCTOBER 24: Bo Bichette #11 of the Toronto Blue Jays throws to first base late after forcing out Will Smith #16 of the Los Angeles Dodgers at second base in game one of the 2025 World Series at Rogers Center on October 24, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32998325/related

Bichette will start at 2B for World Series Game 3

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Max Scherzer isn't taking for granted that he's starting Monday's ...

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> isn't taking for granted that he's starting Monday's Game 3 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers."This is what you play for, to be able to get to this spot, to get to this moment, to have a shot at it." Scherzer <a href="http://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=213908">told reporters</a> Saturday. "You just think about all - throughout your whole life all the different things that have unfolded, and (I'm) just so fortunate to have another crack at this."I mean, there's so many great players that have never gotten to a World Series, so many great players where they only have one World Series. With Donnie (Mattingly) on our team, you know, he's gone his whole career and now this is his first moment. So, I absolutely respect playing in a World Series, what that means, and absolutely cherish these opportunities. When I get a chance to get the ball, man, this means everything."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Scherzer has made four World Series starts over his storied 18-year career. The 41-year-old allowed a combined seven earned runs on 21 hits with 10 walks and 19 strikeouts over 19 1/3 innings with the 2012 Detroit Tigers, 2019 Washington Nationals, and 2023 Texas Rangers.The three-time Cy Young winner and future Hall of Famer saved the Blue Jays' season in Game 4 of the ALCS, surrendering two earned runs on three hits with four walks and five strikeouts across 5 2/3 innings to record the win in his only start of the 2025 postseason.The Blue Jays and Dodgers are tied at one game apiece as the series shifts to Los Angeles for the next three contests.

TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 20: Max Scherzer #31 of the Toronto Blue Jays looks on from the dugout prior to Game Seven of the American League Championship Series presented by loanDepot between the Seattle Mariners and the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on Monday, October 20, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32996835/related

Scherzer: Starting in World Series 'means everything'

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred believes there could be more Canadian teams outside of the Toronto B...

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred believes there could be more Canadian teams outside of the Toronto Blue Jays. "There are certainly other cities in Canada (beyond Montreal) that would be viable expansion candidates," Manfred said Saturday at Rogers Centre before Game 2 of the World Series, according to <a href="https://frontofficesports.com/canada-mlb-expansion-team-manfred/">Eric Fisher of Front Office Sports</a>.Manfred has openly talked about Vancouver landing an MLB team in the past. The city is currently home to the Vancouver Canadians, one of the Blue Jays' Single-A affiliates.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Blue Jays became Canada's only club when the Montreal Expos relocated to Washington in 2005 after being north of the border for 36 years."The Blue Jays have done a phenomenal job, not only in the home market but throughout Canada, developing an audience and developing a fan base," Manfred added. "The viewership numbers we've had from Canada throughout the postseason are really a boost to the game."Toronto's Game 7 win over the Seattle Mariners in the ALCS reached a record-breaking 11.8 million Canadians on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+. An average of six million viewers watched as the Blue Jays returned to the World Series for the first time since 1993. That number peaked at 8.3 million for the final out of the historic contest.The previous high was Game 6 of the 2015 ALCS, when an average of 5.1 million viewers tuned in to watch the Blue Jays fall to the Kansas City Royals.

TORONTO, ONTARIO - OCTOBER 25: Rob Manfred, commissioner of Major League Baseball, talks to the media before game two of the 2025 World Series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Rogers Center on October 25, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32989927/related

Manfred: Canadian cities beyond Montreal viable for MLB expansion

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Kevin Gausman will start Game 2 of the World Series on Saturday ve...

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3634" href="/mlb/players/3634">Kevin Gausman</a> will start Game 2 of the World Series on Saturday versus the Los Angeles Dodgers.Gausman has been solid this postseason, allowing four earned runs on 10 hits with nine walks and 12 strikeouts over 18 innings (three starts).The Blue Jays haven't announced their starters for Games 3 and 4, when the best-of-seven series shifts to Los Angeles.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20109" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20109">Trey Yesavage</a> will <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3376236" href="https://thescore.com/news/3376236">get the ball</a> in Friday's opener. The right-hander will be the second-youngest pitcher ever to start Game 1 of the World Series at 22 years and 88 days old.The Dodgers are going with left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5351" href="/mlb/players/5351">Blake Snell</a> for Game 1 and right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17234" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17234">Yoshinobu Yamamoto</a> in Game 2. The latter became the first Dodgers hurler since Jose Lima in the 2004 NLDS to record a complete game in Game 2 of the NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers. Los Angeles is expected to go with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4257" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4257">Tyler Glasnow</a> in Game 3 and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> in Game 4.

TORONTO, ON - SEPTEMBER 11: Kevin Gausman #34 of the Toronto Blue Jays pitches in the first inning during a game against the Houston Astros at Rogers Centre on September 11, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32952983/related

Blue Jays' Gausman to start Game 2 vs. Dodgers' Yamamoto

The Toronto Blue Jays are returning to the World Series for the first time since winning back-to-...

The Toronto Blue Jays are returning to the World Series for the first time since winning back-to-back titles in 1992 and 1993.Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro and general manager Ross Atkins constructed a deep roster through the draft, trade market, and free agency, and that group will take on the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers.<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Method</th>
<th>Players</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Homegrown</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Trade</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Free agent</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The team below is based on the active roster for the American League Championship Series. The date in parentheses denotes the time of acquisition.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Homegrown</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806507/cropped_GettyImages-2241920694.jpg?ts=1761094387" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806507/w220xh124_GettyImages-2241920694.jpg?ts=1761094387 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806507/w320xh180_GettyImages-2241920694.jpg?ts=1761094387 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806507/w640xh360_GettyImages-2241920694.jpg?ts=1761094387 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806507/w768xh432_GettyImages-2241920694.jpg?ts=1761094387 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806507/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2241920694.jpg?ts=1761094387 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Daniel Shirey / Major League Baseball / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Blue Jays found great fortune in international free agency but mixed results in the draft. The only first-rounder on the AL-pennant winning roster that Toronto selected is Trey Yesavage, who looks like a potential ace in the making. The club is also in a good spot moving forward with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. as the crown jewel of the group.Addison Barger (June 4, 2018): Barger climbed through the minor leagues after being drafted in the sixth round. The 25-year-old hit 21 homers with a .756 OPS in his first full season, showing off his power potential and great arm at third base and in right field.Bo Bichette (Jun 9, 2016): Bichette developed into one of the cornerstones of the franchise after he was selected with the No. 66 pick in the 2016 draft. The shortstop is a two-time All-Star who led the AL in hits twice. However, the 27-year-old impending free agent hasn't played since early September because of a knee sprain. He's the ultimate World Series wild card.Mason Fluharty (July 18, 2022): Fluharty was selected in the fifth round. The 24-year-old put together a solid rookie season with a 3.97 FIP, 1.14 WHIP, and 9.6 K/9 before becoming the team's top left-handed reliever in the playoffs.Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (July 2, 2015): Guerrero received $3.9 million as a highly touted 16-year-old. He's turned into a five-time All-Star, AL MVP runner-up, Gold Glover, and ALCS MVP at age 26 under the pressure of astronomical expectations as a No. 1 prospect and son of a Hall of Famer. Guerrero's 14-year, $500-million contract is the largest in Canadian sports history.Alejandro Kirk (Sep. 24, 2016): Kirk has become one of the best catchers in baseball after signing a $30,000 deal as a 17-year-old. The two-time All-Star finished second to only Cal Raleigh in fWAR among backstops this season, posting a 116 wRC+ to go along with the great blocking and framing skills that earned him his second Gold Glove nomination.Davis Schneider (June 14, 2017): Schneider went from being selected in the 28th round to becoming a useful platoon piece and fan favorite. The 26-year-old owns a .915 OPS over 99 plate appearances versus left-handers in 2025.Trey Yesavage (Jul 14, 2024): The 22-year-old's meteoric rise has been well-documented after being the No. 20 pick in last year's draft. The right-hander ascended through four minor-league levels before debuting for the Blue Jays in mid-September and then helping them reach the World Series. He will start Game 1.<h3>Trades</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802916/cropped_GettyImages-2236342057.jpg?ts=1758847730" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802916/w220xh124_GettyImages-2236342057.jpg?ts=1758847730 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802916/w320xh180_GettyImages-2236342057.jpg?ts=1758847730 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802916/w640xh360_GettyImages-2236342057.jpg?ts=1758847730 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802916/w768xh432_GettyImages-2236342057.jpg?ts=1758847730 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802916/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2236342057.jpg?ts=1758847730 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Sydney Schneider / Major League Baseball / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Blue Jays' front office has shown a tendency to focus on run prevention, defense, and pitching in its deals with other teams. All of the players acquired through trades joined the organization over the last four years. The 2025 trade deadline proved especially fruitful, as Shane Bieber, Seranthony Domínguez, and Louis Varland all played a role in getting the club to the Fall Classic.Shane Bieber (July 31, 2025): Toronto took a big swing by acquiring Bieber, who was in the final stages of his Tommy John comeback and could end up being a rental. The gamble paid off as the 2020 AL Cy Young winner saved the season with a great Game 3 start in the ALCS.Seranthony Domínguez (July 29, 2025): Domínguez's power arm and big strikeout potential added high-leverage depth to the bullpen. The right-hander has become the club's top setup man behind closer Jeff Hoffman.Braydon Fisher (June 12, 2024): The Dodgers don't lose trades often, but sending Fisher to the Blue Jays for Cavan Biggio looks like a miss. The former authored a 2.70 ERA with 11.2 K/9 during his rookie campaign.Ty France (July 31, 2025): The first baseman was added this past deadline in the deal with the Minnesota Twins that also brought high-leverage reliever Louis Varland to Toronto. Spring-training breakout minor-leaguer Alan Roden went to the Twins in the trade along with pitching prospect Kendry Rojas.Andrés Giménez (Dec 10, 2024): The Blue Jays continued to prioritize run prevention by trading for Giménez in a four-player swap with the Cleveland Guardians. The soon-to-be four-time Gold Glover hit a pair of big homers in the ALCS after posting a career-worst 70 wRC+ in the regular season.Brendon Little (Nov. 6, 2023): Little was acquired from the Cubs for cash. The left-hander had an impressive year, recording a 3.03 ERA with 12 K/9. However, in the playoffs, he's walked 5.9 batters per nine innings and has looked shaky.Myles Straw (Jan. 17, 2025): Straw was supposed to be a salary dump by the Guardians in exchange for the Blue Jays gaining an extra $2 million to potentially sign Roki Sasaki (who chose the Dodgers). The glove-first outfielder has become a valuable bench piece as a defensive replacement or pinch runner.Louis Varland (July 31, 2025): In the postseason, manager John Schneider has leaned heavily on Varland, who arrived via a four-player trade with the Twins at the deadline. The 27-year-old former starter owns a 3.27 ERA with 14 strikeouts and has appeared in 10 out of 11 games this October.Daulton Varsho (Dec. 23, 2022): Varsho was acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks for Gabriel Moreno and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in a polarizing trade. However, all three players eventually helped their new teams get to the Fall Classic. The 29-year-old Varsho became a big power threat in 2025 to complement his outstanding defense in center field.<h3>Free agents</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795699/cropped_GettyImages-2226485143.jpg?ts=1753576523" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795699/w220xh124_GettyImages-2226485143.jpg?ts=1753576523 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795699/w320xh180_GettyImages-2226485143.jpg?ts=1753576523 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795699/w640xh360_GettyImages-2226485143.jpg?ts=1753576523 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795699/w768xh432_GettyImages-2226485143.jpg?ts=1753576523 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795699/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2226485143.jpg?ts=1753576523 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Duane Burleson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rogers Communications invested a lot of money into the Blue Jays' roster via free agency over the last few offseasons. Toronto's payroll was the fifth highest in the majors this year at over $255 million, which is a team record. Those financial commitments have the club positioned to win a championship in 2025 after going a combined 0-6 in the playoffs between 2020, 2022, and 2023.Chris Bassitt (December 16, 2022): Bassitt inked a three-year, $63-million deal. He's been a solid mid-rotation starter, authoring a 3.89 ERA while logging 541 1/3 innings as a dependable workhorse.Ernie Clement (March 14, 2023): Clement is another gem the Jays unearthed via a minors pact. He provides great defensive versatility in the infield, which should net him his first Gold Glove this season. He's also batting an eye-popping .429 in the postseason thanks to six multi-hit games.Kevin Gausman (Dec. 1, 2021): The Blue Jays found their ace when they inked Gausman to a five-year, $110-million contract. He owns a 3.48 ERA with 9.7 K/9 since joining the team. Only Zack Wheeler, Logan Webb, and Tarik Skubal have accumulated more fWAR than Gausman among pitchers since 2022.Jeff Hoffman (Jan. 10, 2025): Hoffman became the club's closer after inking a three-year, $33-million pact. He had an up-and-down regular season but has been dynamite in the playoffs, allowing one earned run with 12 strikeouts over six appearances.Eric Lauer (Dec 13, 2024): The Blue Jays caught lightning in a bottle, getting a 3.18 ERA in 104 2/3 innings (15 starts) out of Lauer on a minor-league deal.Nathan Lukes (Nov. 10, 2022): Lukes landed with the Jays on a minor-league deal before making his MLB debut at age 28 in 2023. He's turned into one of the team's many unsung heroes, slashing .333/.381/.410 with seven RBIs in October.Max Scherzer (Feb. 4, 2025): The three-time Cy Young winner and future first-ballot Hall of Famer came to Toronto on a one-year, $15.5-million deal. The 41-year-old had the worst season of his 18-year career but delivered in the biggest moment with an unforgettable start in Game 4 of the ALCS.George Springer (Jan. 23, 2021): Springer's six-year, $150-million contract is the Jays' biggest splash on the open market in franchise history. The 36-year-old looked like he was in a steep decline before posting the best offensive season of his 12-year career. His home run in Game 7 of the ALCS will be remembered forever in Canada.<h3>Waivers</h3>Tyler Heineman (Sep 16, 2024): Heineman had the best season of his six-year career as the team's backup catcher. He slashed .289/.361/.416 with three homers over 61 games.Isiah Kiner-Falefa (Aug. 31, 2025): Kiner-Falefa returned to the Blue Jays after being dealt to the Pittsburgh Pirates at last year's trade deadline. He provides defensive versatility off the bench and has come up with some timely hits in the playoffs.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32948419/related

Contender blueprint: How Toronto built a World Series roster

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider doubled down on his costly decision to bring in left-han...

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider doubled down on his costly decision to bring in left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12758" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12758">Brendon Little</a> in the eighth inning of Friday's 6-2 loss to the Seattle Mariners in Game 5 of the ALCS."I trust my players," Schneider <a href="https://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=213794">told</a> reporters Saturday. "In hindsight, I had a couple other options to do. That's what I decided to do. So, again, I have all the information that I need, and I don't think I made a mistake."Players have to go perform. There is always risk when you put a player in a situation that he won't get the job done. That's part of the game."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Little, who owns a 6.08 ERA and 1.88 WHIP over his last 21 appearances, surrendered a game-tying homer to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10827" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10827">Cal Raleigh</a> before walking the next two batters. He was replaced by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9732" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9732">Seranthony Domínguez</a>, who eventually allowed a game-winning grand slam to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3362">Eugenio Suárez</a>, putting the Blue Jays on the brink of elimination."Every decision you make that doesn't work out, I regret," Schneider added. "No matter who it is. Whether it's a hitter, a pinch-hitter, a pitcher, a starting pitcher, it's part of the job. ... There's what-ifs always in this game. I think that you learn from 'em. You trust your people around you when you are making decisions. You make 'em, and you move on. That's where I'm at with it."The series resumes with Game 6 on Sunday in Toronto. The ALCS winner will play the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series.

SEATTLE, WA - OCTOBER 17: Manager John Schneider #14 of the Toronto Blue Jays looks on in the fourth inning during Game Five of the American League Championship Series presented by loanDepot between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on Friday, October 17, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32875884/related

Jays' Schneider: I didn't make mistake with Little in Game 5

Red Bull's Max Verstappen will start from P1 for Sunday's United States Grand Prix after posting ...

Red Bull's Max Verstappen will start from P1 for Sunday's United States Grand Prix after posting the fastest time during Saturday's qualifying at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="United States GP Qualifying 🇺🇸" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zlpKP" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zlpKP/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="854" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure>Verstappen captured his Formula 1-leading seventh pole of the 2025 season. "It was good," Verstappen said after qualifying, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/46603677/us-grand-prix-qualifying-verstappen-takes-pole-ahead-norris">Nate Saunders of ESPN</a>. "I think in every segment the car was very strong. Just trying to put the lap together around here sometimes can be quite tricky. Also, it's very hot, very strong winds as well. And then in that first sector, having tailwind is challenging.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Verstappen recorded the fastest lap despite Red Bull being unable to get him out for his final attempt of the session."The first one (lap) in Q3 was good," the 28-year-old added. "Just managed to improve a little bit from Q2. Unfortunately, then I couldn't do my final run. Was a bit messy with the out laps, but luckily ... we didn't need it. So, for us again, very strong result."The four-time reigning world champion overtook Ayrton Senna for the third-most poles with a single constructor (47) in F1 history. Only Michael Schumacher (58) and Lewis Hamilton (78) have more.Verstappen also won the sprint race earlier in the day, which earned him eight points in the drivers' standings, as he tries to catch the front-running McLaren duo of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.

AUSTIN, TEXAS - OCTOBER 18: Pole position qualifier Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrates in parc ferme during Qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of United States at Circuit of The Americas on October 18, 2025 in Austin, Texas.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32873093/related

Verstappen secures pole for United States GP

The Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Milwaukee Brewers 5-1 in Game 4 on Friday to sweep the NLCS and ...

The Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Milwaukee Brewers 5-1 in Game 4 on Friday to sweep the NLCS and advance to the World Series.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> had a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3371248" href="https://thescore.com/news/3371248">performance for the ages</a> with three homers, while pitching six shutout innings with 10 strikeouts in the win to help the Dodgers sweep a best-of-seven series for the first time since 1963.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
SHOHEI OHTANI STARTS IT ... ROKI SASAKI ENDS IT THE DODGERS ARE WORLD SERIES-BOUND <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CLINCHED?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CLINCHED</a> (MLB x <a href="https://twitter.com/budweiserusa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BudweiserUSA</a>) <a href="https://t.co/Hk8DnBKDKY">pic.twitter.com/Hk8DnBKDKY</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1979388043699032454?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>It's the fifth time the Dodgers will play in the World Series since 2017. They won in 2024 and 2020. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I think we're just in a zone," manager Dave Roberts said postgame, per <a href="https://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=213778">ASAP Sports</a>. "We're focused on playing good baseball. And I still think that there's a lot of low-hanging fruit offensively. But it's just a very talented group. It's a very focused and very hungry group. So I think that when you get those components, it's tough to beat."And we mind the little things. We're hungry. We don't really care what happened before. And we're playing good baseball. We're healthy and we've still got some work to do, though."Los Angeles is also the first defending champion to return to the Fall Classic since the 2009 Philadelphia Phillies.Milwaukee scored just four runs in the series after finishing the regular season with an MLB-high 97 wins and a plus-172 run differential. The Brewers' only run Friday was an eighth-inning fielder's choice off the bat of second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10687" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10687">Brice Turang</a>, who went 1-for-15 in the series with six strikeouts."We couldn't really get anything clicking," Turang said after the loss, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/brewers/news/brewers-lose-2025-nlcs-to-dodgers-shohei-ohtani?t=nlcs-coverage">MLB.com's Adam McCalvy</a>. "It's part of the game, and you have to understand that."In situations like this, as a young kid, you have to learn from it. But it was a great year. It was fun. It's nothing but respect for every guy in this room."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Dodgers held the Brewers to the lowest batting average ever in an MLB postseason best-of-7 series. Milwaukee, 2025 NLCS: .118 St. Louis, 2019 NLCS: .130 Los Angeles Dodgers, 1966 World Series: .142 Baltimore Orioles, 1969 World Series: .146 Atlanta Braves, 2019, NLDS .154.— JJ Cooper (@jjcoop36) <a href="https://twitter.com/jjcoop36/status/1979388554011906143?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Dodgers will rest up and await the winner of the ALCS - either the Seattle Mariners or Toronto Blue Jays - in the World Series beginning Oct. 24.The Mariners have a 3-2 lead in that series with Game 6 coming Sunday.

Los Angeles, CA - October 17:Dodgers cerebrate after the final out in game four of the NLCS, defeating the Brewers 5-1 in game four at Dodger Stadium on Friday, October 17, 2025. The Dodger swept the series and will face Toronto or Seattle in the World Series.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32858346/related

Dodgers sweep Brewers to claim 2nd straight NL pennant

Eugenio Suárez's heroic eighth-inning grand slam led the Seattle Mariners to a 6-2 win over the T...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3362">Eugenio Suárez</a>'s heroic eighth-inning grand slam led the Seattle Mariners to a 6-2 win over the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 5 of the ALCS on Friday.The Mariners are now one win away from their first World Series appearance in the team's 49-year history.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
EUGENIO SUÁREZ CONNECTS AGAIN IN GRAND FASHION 🤯 WHAT A GAME IN SEATTLE 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/9BQVmonoum">pic.twitter.com/9BQVmonoum</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1979352321764348277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Suárez hit his go-ahead blast off right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9732" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9732">Seranthony Domínguez</a> after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10827" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10827">Cal Raleigh</a> tied the game to start the frame with a solo homer against reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12758" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12758">Brendon Little</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
CAL RALEIGH TIE GAME T-MOBILE PARK IS ROCKING 🔱 <a href="https://t.co/6eOzi9jf2a">pic.twitter.com/6eOzi9jf2a</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1979349044804932095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Suárez also went deep in the second inning, as he finished 2-for-3 with two home runs and five RBIs in a signature performance."My emotions right now, it's very high. I feel so grateful," Suárez said. "God give me the ability to do something good for this city, and the vibe is always going to be high. Even when you're struggling, you've got to keep your good vibes because it's a gift. "Today our vibe was so high. We know what is in front of us, and we want to take it. We're not going to quit. We've been playing really good baseball. Today was special."The 34-year-old joined the Mariners at the trade deadline. He hit 49 homers during the regular season but was in a 6-for-50 slump heading into Game 5."Obviously, this is the biggest home run of my career," Suárez added, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/blue-jays-mariners-alcs-score-7aadcf7d0c9e2a74956cfcac9b72d43f">Andrew Destin of The Associated Press</a>.Raleigh said his club will be ready for Game 6 as the series shifts back to Toronto on Sunday."It's a great opportunity for us, but we know we still got a tough ball club on the other side, so we're not taking anything for granted," Raleigh told <a href="https://x.com/MLBONFOX/status/1979358994977509539">Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal</a>.Mariners right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15727" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15727">Bryce Miller </a>allowed one earned run on four hits with one walk and four strikeouts over four innings. Seattle then used four relievers, including All-Star pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16278" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16278">Bryan Woo</a>, who made his first appearance in nearly a month because of a pec injury, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9802" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9802">Gabe Speier</a>, who picked up the win.Blue Jays ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3634">Kevin Gausman</a> surrendered one earned run on three hits with three walks and one strikeout across 5 2/3 innings. Little took the loss, allowing three earned runs on one hit and two walks after facing just three batters in the eighth.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2931" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2931">George Springer</a>, who left the game after being <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3371205" href="https://thescore.com/news/3371205">hit in the kneecap</a> by a pitch in the top of the seventh, had an RBI double in the loss. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10877" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10877">Ernie Clement</a> drove in the other run for Toronto.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 17: Eugenio Suárez #28 and Andrés Muñoz #75 of the Seattle Mariners celebrate with teammates after defeating the Toronto Blue Jays 6-2 in game five of the American League Championship Series at T-Mobile Park on October 17, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32856014/related

Suárez hits late slam as Mariners push Jays to brink in ALCS

The Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Seattle Mariners 8-2 in Thursday's Game 4 of the ALCS to level...

The Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Seattle Mariners 8-2 in Thursday's Game 4 of the ALCS to level the best-of-seven showdown.The Blue Jays stormed back to win the first two games at T-Mobile Park after dropping the first two contests at Rogers Centre.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJays?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BlueJays</a> flip the script and even up the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ALCS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ALCS</a> 😤 <a href="https://t.co/qQZdUfD2Nf">pic.twitter.com/qQZdUfD2Nf</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1979027822501855472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a>, 41, allowed two earned runs on three hits with four walks and five strikeouts over 5 2/3 innings to record the win in his first playoff start in two years.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Blue Jays manager John Schneider came out to talk with the three-time Cy Young winner and future Hall of Famer in the fifth inning with a runner on first and two outs, but the pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3370445" href="https://thescore.com/news/3370445">wanted no part of the conversation</a>. He ended up striking out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9644" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9644">Randy Arozarena</a> to end the frame."I knew the situation in the game, I wanted the ball, and I basically told him that in a little bit different language," Scherzer joked postgame with <a href="http://&lt;blockquote%20class=%22twitter-tweet%22&gt;&lt;p%20lang=%22en%22%20dir=%22ltr%22&gt;%E2%80%9CI%20wanted%20the%20ball%20and%20I%20basically%20told%20him%20that%20in%20a%20little%20bit%20different%20language%E2%80%9D%20%F0%9F%98%8A&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Max%20Scherzer%20talks%20about%20his%20conversation%20with%20John%20Schneider%20in%20the%205th%20inning%20%F0%9F%98%86%20&lt;a%20href=%22https://t.co/4lk7jtOoDd%22&gt;pic.twitter.com/4lk7jtOoDd&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash;%20FOX%20Sports:%20MLB%20(@MLBONFOX)%20&lt;a%20href=%22https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/1979036705488351386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%22&gt;October%2017,%202025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt;%20&lt;script%20async%20src=%22https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js%22%20charset=%22utf-8%22&gt;&lt;/script&gt;">MLB on Fox</a>.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8766">Andrés Giménez</a> went deep for a second straight game to pace the offense. The latter also had four RBIs."That's Max," Guerrero told <a href="https://x.com/MLBONFOX/status/1979030477563482161">Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports</a>. "Hall of Fame. He competes all the time. He came and he give all the energy. He gave it all on the field."Guerrero hit his fifth homer of the playoffs in the seventh to set a Blue Jays record for most long balls during a single postseason, passing team legend José Bautista.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER VLADIMIR GUERRERO JR. HOMER 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/fAHhKzScB9">pic.twitter.com/fAHhKzScB9</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1979015871755341843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Mariners right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5526" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5526">Luis Castillo</a> surrendered three earned runs on five hits with one walk and one strikeout over 2 1/3 innings to take the loss. Seattle only managed five hits in the game, three of which came from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8240" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8240">Josh Naylor</a>, who also hit his second homer of the series.Game 5 goes Friday in Seattle at 6:08 p.m. ET.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 16: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run against the Seattle Mariners during the seventh inning in game four of the American League Championship Series at T-Mobile Park on October 16, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32846167/related

Blue Jays storm back to tie ALCS with Game 4 win

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio expects to play in Game 4 of the NLCS on Friday afte...

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14481" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14481">Jackson Chourio</a> expects to play in Game 4 of the NLCS on Friday after exiting Thursday's Game 3 with a cramp in his right hamstring.Chourio departed mid-at-bat after grabbing at his hamstring following a swing in the seventh inning of the 3-1 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jackson Chourio leaves the game with an apparent right leg injury in the 7th inning and is replaced by Blake Perkins. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NLCS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NLCS</a> <a href="https://t.co/elRweQiAH9">pic.twitter.com/elRweQiAH9</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1978979933226426745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"I feel physically good right now and I think tomorrow I could be playing," Chourio said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamMcCalvy/status/1979000669336953258">Adam McCalvy of MLB.com</a>. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Chourio suffered an injury to the same hamstring during Game 1 of the NLDS against the Chicago Cubs before returning to the lineup in Game 2. The 21-year-old was also sidelined for most of August due to a hamstring strain.The 2024 NL Rookie of the Year finalist has two homers, eight RBIs, and an .842 OPS over eight playoff games this year.The Brewers are on the brink of elimination after dropping the first three games of the best-of-seven series.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 16: Jackson Chourio #11 of the Milwaukee Brewers looks on as he attended to after taking a foul ball to the leg in the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game three of the National League Championship Series at Dodger Stadium on October 16, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32842927/related

Chourio says he left Game 3 with cramp, expects to play Game 4

Yoshinobu Yamamoto recorded a complete game in the Los Angeles Dodgers' 5-1 win over the Milwauke...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17234" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17234">Yoshinobu Yamamoto</a> recorded a complete game in the Los Angeles Dodgers' 5-1 win over the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 2 of the NLCS on Tuesday.The Dodgers took a 2-0 series lead with the victory.Yamamoto allowed just one run on three hits with one walk and seven strikeouts on 111 pitches in the victory at American Family Field. The All-Star hurler is the first Dodgers pitcher to throw a complete game in the postseason since Jose Lima in the 2004 NLDS.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
YOSHINOBU YAMAMOTO FINISHES OFF A COMPLETE GAME ON PITCH NO. 111!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NLCS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NLCS</a> <a href="https://t.co/swcxV67ouu">pic.twitter.com/swcxV67ouu</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1978295198548406501?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Yamamoto's effort was also the first complete game in the postseason since Justin Verlander accomplished the feat in Game 2 of the 2017 ALCS.The 27-year-old surrendered a leadoff homer to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14481" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14481">Jackson Chourio</a> on the first pitch of the bottom of the first inning. However, the right-hander limited the Brewers to just two singles the rest of the game.Yamamoto and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5351" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5351">Blake Snell</a>, who allowed one hit with 10 strikeouts in Game 1, are the first pair of Dodgers to log eight-plus innings in consecutive playoff games since Orel Hershiser and Tim Belcher in Games 1 and 2 of the 1988 NLCS."We chased way more than we've chased all year," Brewers manager Pat Murphy said. "We've been the best in baseball at not chasing. These pitchers brought out the worst in us."If I would have told you that the Dodgers were going to score seven runs in two games, and what was the outcome in the first two games, I'd say there's a chance we win one of them for sure."<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4250" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4250">Max Muncy</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a> homered in the win. The former hit his franchise-best 14th postseason home run in the sixth inning to break a tie with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3924" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3924">Corey Seager</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/43" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/43">Justin Turner</a>."It means a lot to me," Muncy said of the record. "The Dodgers are a franchise that have been around for a very, very long time. A lot of very successful players have played in this organization. And to be able to break that record is kind of huge for me."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Max Muncy doubles the Dodgers lead with a home run! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NLCS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NLCS</a> <a href="https://t.co/6bpcAieN46">pic.twitter.com/6bpcAieN46</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1978275317174157489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The defending World Series champions are two wins away from returning to the Fall Classic, with the series shifting to Dodger Stadium for the next three games. Los Angeles is 7-1 in the 2025 postseason.The Dodgers appear to be on a collision course with the Seattle Mariners in a potential World Series showdown, as this season marks the first time since 1970 that road teams grabbed a 2-0 lead in both LCS matchups."The one thing is you guys might have us counted out. And I understand that. 90 percent of the teams that have been in this situation don't win the series," Murphy said. "But this team has been counted out a lot this year. And I think there's some fight left in them."

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - OCTOBER 14: Will Smith #16 and Yoshinobu Yamamoto #18 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrate after beating the Milwaukee Brewers 5-1 in game two of the National League Championship Series at American Family Field on October 14, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32829298/related

Yamamoto throws complete game as Dodgers go up 2-0 in NLCS

Boston Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman will be returning to free agency in the offseason.  Bre...

Boston Red Sox third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> will be returning to free agency in the offseason.Bregman will opt out of the final two years and $80 million left ($40 million deferred) on his contract after agreeing to a three-year, $120-million pact to join the Red Sox in February, sources told <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/10/14/sports/alex-bregman-will-have-plenty-of-options-after-red-sox-opt-out/">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>.The 31-year-old won't have a qualifying offer attached to him this time around, which could create more potential suitors. The Red Sox forfeited their second-highest 2025 draft pick (No. 54 overall) and $500,000 in international bonus pool money after signing him.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bregman went deep 18 times with 62 RBIs and an .821 OPS over 114 games this season en route to being named an All-Star for the third time over his 10-year career. However, he missed six weeks with a quad injury from late May to early July.The 2024 Gold Glover finished in the 83rd percentile in outs above average this year. Bregman, a two-time World Series champion (2017, 2022), spent nine seasons with the Houston Astros to begin his career.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JULY 11: Alex Bregman #2 of the Boston Red Sox warms up before a game against the Tampa Bay Rays on July 11, 2025 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32827674/related

Report: Bregman to opt out of Red Sox deal

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Max Scherzer will start Thursday's Game 4 of the ALCS versus the S...

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> will start Thursday's Game 4 of the ALCS versus the Seattle Mariners, the club announced Tuesday.Scherzer, who has yet to pitch in the 2025 playoffs after being left off the ALDS roster, posted a 5.19 ERA with 1.29 WHIP and 8.7 K/9 over 85 innings (17 starts) during the regular season.However, the three-time Cy Young winner and future Hall of Famer owns a 3.78 ERA with 171 strikeouts over 143 innings in the postseason across his 18-year career.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Scherzer also has a career 3.23 ERA with 32 strikeouts over 30 2/3 innings at Seattle's T-Mobile Park. He's held the Mariners' current roster to a combined .190 average (11-for-58), according to <a href="https://x.com/SNstats/status/1978226543961715144">Sportsnet Stats</a>.The 41-year-old will be opposed by Mariners right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2539" href="/mlb/players/2539">Luis Castillo</a>.The Blue Jays dropped the first two games of the best-of-seven series.

PITTSBURGH, PA - AUGUST 19: Max Scherzer #31 of the Toronto Blue Jays delivers a pitch during an MLB game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on August 19, 2025 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32825724/related

Scherzer to start Game 4 vs. Mariners

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernández took accountability for not scoring during an im...

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a> took accountability for not scoring during an improbable double play turned by the Milwaukee Brewers in the fourth inning of Monday's NLCS Game 1."It was one of those plays that if you would have asked me two days ago what would you do in that situation, I would say as soon as the ball touched the glove, I would go," Hernández said Tuesday following the Dodgers' 2-1 win to kick off the NLCS, according to <a href="https://x.com/FabianArdaya/status/1978199461215060244">Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic</a>. "But in the moment, I got blocked, I think, and there's not an explanation. I just f----d up. It's that simple."I don't think there's going to be any explanation that is going to be accurate. I saw it when the ball hit the glove, (so) I went. Then I saw it bounced off the glove. And I just react bad. Just one of those moments, you block your mind. But there's nobody to blame but myself. And it happens."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!?!?! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NLCS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NLCS</a> <a href="https://t.co/x7BbmJ6hzX">pic.twitter.com/x7BbmJ6hzX</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1977903873193902242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Dodgers slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4250" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4250">Max Muncy</a> crushed a deep fly in the fourth inning that seemed destined to be a grand slam. Brewers outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14180" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14180">Sal Frelick</a> intercepted the would-be homer but bobbled the ball before it bounced off the wall, creating a force play at every base. Hernández was then thrown out at home for the first 8-6-2 twin killing in MLB postseason history.Game 2 starts 8:08 p.m. ET on Tuesday at American Family Field.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - OCTOBER 13: William Contreras #24 of the Milwaukee Brewers forces out at Teoscar Hernández #37 of the Los Angeles Dodgers at home plate during the fourth inning in game one of the National League Championship Series at American Family Field on October 13, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32825483/related

Teoscar Hernández: I 'f----d up' on Brewers' crazy double play

Another Japanese star could be coming to the majors in 2026.  Slugging corner infielder Munetaka ...

Another Japanese star could be coming to the majors in 2026.Slugging corner infielder Munetaka Murakami will be posted by Nippon Professional Baseball's Yakult Swallows this winter for all 30 MLB teams, sources told <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/munetaka-murakami-market-mlb">Mark Feinsand of MLB.com</a>.The 25-year-old played 892 games during his time in Japan and hit 246 home runs with a .951 OPS, including 56 long balls in 2022 - a single-season record for a Japanese-born player. He became the youngest player in NPB history to win the league's Triple Crown that year when he accomplished the feat at age 22.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Japanese media reported this week that the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, and Seattle Mariners could be among the clubs that make a big run at Murakami, according to Feinsand.The Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, and San Francisco Giants could also pursue Murakami, sources told Feinsand.Murakami won't be impacted by international bonus pool money as fellow countryman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19077" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19077">Roki Sasaki</a> was last offseason because the former is at least 25 and reached the minimum of six seasons played in a foreign professional league. However, Murakami still has to be posted instead of going through MLB free agency because he's played fewer than nine years in NPB.

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 21: Munetaka Murakami #55 of Team Japan hits a home run in the second inning during the 2023 World Baseball Classic Championship game between Team USA and Team Japan at loanDepot Park on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32759575/related

Report: Japanese star Murakami will be posted to MLB

San Diego Padres infielder José Iglesias received a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine f...

San Diego Padres infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1660" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1660">José Iglesias</a> received a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine for a heated argument with umpires following a Game 3 loss to the Chicago Cubs on Oct. 2 in the NL wild-card round.Padres shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3629" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3629">Xander Bogaerts</a> was also fined for his role in the altercation.Iglesias and Bogaerts engaged in a shouting match with umpires as the crew walked through the Padres dugout while exiting the field following the season-ending 3-1 defeat at Wrigley Field.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
J<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1660" href="/mlb/players/1660">ose Iglesias </a>has been suspended one game and fined for this incident. Xander Bogaerts also received a fine <a href="https://t.co/WmuaZqwKmJ">pic.twitter.com/WmuaZqwKmJ</a>— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) <a href="https://twitter.com/TalkinBaseball_/status/1976719236065358120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Iglesias will be a free agent in the offseason, which means he will serve his punishment to start the 2026 season if he signs a new contract.

Chicago, Illinois - October 02: Jose Iglesias #7 of the San Diego Padres reacts after lining out against the Chicago Cubs during Game 3 of the NL Wild Card Series at Wrigley Field on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Meg McLaughlin / The San Diego Union-Tribune via Getty Images)

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32758838/related

Padres' Iglesias gets 1-game ban for altercation with umps in wild-card round

Cody Bellinger is set to hit free agency in the offseason.  The New York Yankees outfielder will ...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a> is set to hit free agency in the offseason.The New York Yankees outfielder will opt out of his $25-million player option for the 2026 season to test the open market, a source told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/46552534/cody-bellinger-opts-contract-set-become-free-agent">Jorge Castillo of ESPN</a>.The Chicago Cubs originally signed Bellinger to a three-year, $80-million deal, which included opt-out clauses after the first and second seasons, in February 2024.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Yankees traded for the 2019 NL MVP and two-time All-Star last December.Bellinger slashed .272/.334/.480 with 29 homers, 98 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases to go along with a 4.9 fWAR over 152 regular-season games. He added another long ball and four RBIs and recorded a .651 OPS across seven playoff contests before the Toronto Blue Jays eliminated the Yankees in the ALDS.The 30-year-old was excellent in the field, finishing in the 93rd percentile for outs above average, 91st percentile in arm value, and 83rd percentile in arm strength.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 07: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees reacts after a double against the Toronto Blue Jays during the sixth inning in game three of the American League Division Series at Yankee Stadium on October 07, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32757779/related

Report: Yankees' Bellinger to opt out of $25M player option

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/tom-ruminski/content_cards