The ALCS is down to Game 6 tonight, and the series has swung firmly into the Rays’ corner after they grabbed yesterday’s game. Tampa Bay now sits one win from the World Series, a familiar spot for one of the league’s newer franchises. They’ve been to the Fall Classic twice in their 28-year existence, but the trophy case still isn’t full.
Cleveland had its chance to seize control at home after taking a game in Tampa, and that missed opening now looms large. The Guardians have to win twice in Florida or watch their season end, a tough ask in any series. They carry their own championship drought, and that burden could be a heavy one for the Stephen Vogt-led club to shake off in a short sprint like this.
While the baseball world keeps one eye on the ALCS, the Athletics are dealing with a major decision of their own behind the scenes. The club is still searching for a new front-office leader, someone who will likely help steer the organization into its new home park in Las Vegas. Red Sox assistant GM Taylor Smith is reportedly a favorite, but the question remains: in what capacity?
The A’s were willing to offer the title of President to the Phillies’ Sam Fuld, which only adds another layer to the uncertainty. Is that the same kind of role being discussed with all of the candidates, or is that the holdup keeping any announcement from happening? Either way, the wait continues, and the club still hasn’t revealed its new GM before the end of the World Series.
In Other News...
A's Bullpen Battle Could Come Down To Two Unexpected Arms
The Athletics are already looking ahead to 2027, and the bullpen figures to be one of the more interesting areas of the roster to watch after injuries thinned out key arms in 2026. Two pitchers who were not necessarily part of the original plan, Scott Blewett and Brady Basso, are suddenly in the mix for meaningful roles if the club chooses to let competition sort out the relief picture.
Blewett arrived by trade after being designated for assignment and turned in a strong minor league showing that put him back on the radar. Basso had a tougher season overall, but he did show better stretches at times and could still push for a spot depending on what the As do in the offseason, making this one of those spring battles that could hinge on how much help is added before camp opens. [Read more 🡒]