Paul Sullivan: 5 players the Cubs need to step up to make a long postseason run

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made an exciting decision by confirming that their $6 million reliever will be part of the postseason roster, despite a less than stellar season. This move could signal the emergence of a new superstar for the team, potentially boosting their chances in the playoffs. Fans are eager to see how this late-season strategy will play out and whether it can lead to a successful postseason run.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, despite being the reigning World Series Champions, are facing unexpected challenges as they prepare for the 2025 NL Wild Card Series against the Reds. With a roster filled with talented players, their struggles have raised questions about their performance leading into the playoffs. This matchup is significant as it could determine their path in the postseason and whether they can reclaim their championship title.

Mitch Albom encourages Tigers fans to embrace the excitement of the playoffs, signaling the end of a challenging regular season. With the unpredictability of baseball akin to changing weather, fans can look forward to a fresh start as the Tigers prepare to face the Guardians in Game 1. This shift in momentum is significant, as it brings renewed hope and enthusiasm for the team and its supporters.

The San Francisco 49ers, who started the 2025 NFL season strong, faced a disappointing loss against the Jaguars in Week 4 at Levi's Stadium. This defeat has raised concerns among fans who were hopeful for a deep postseason run. The team's performance, which had previously showcased a powerful offense and solid defense, fell short, leading to questions about their ability to maintain momentum in the season. This loss could impact their playoff aspirations and fan morale.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are gearing up for their wild-card series against the Reds, feeling a strong sense of urgency to secure another World Series title for the city. Despite facing different circumstances compared to their 2024 championship run, the team's expectations remain high. This is significant as it reflects the Dodgers' commitment to excellence and the passionate support from their fans, who are eager to see their team succeed once again.

The Dodgers are gearing up for their wild-card series against the Reds, feeling a strong sense of urgency to secure another World Series title for Los Angeles. While their current situation differs from their 2024 championship run, the expectations from fans and the organization remain high. This drive not only reflects the team's ambition but also highlights the importance of delivering success to a passionate fanbase.

David Stearns, the Mets' president of baseball operations, openly acknowledged the team's struggles during a disappointing season, particularly highlighting the pitching issues that plagued them. He emphasized that the inconsistent starting rotation and a weak defense were significant factors in the team's failure to perform. This candid assessment is crucial as it sets the stage for potential changes in the offseason, aiming to improve the team's competitiveness in the future.

The Houston Astros have faced a disappointing end to their season, marking the first time in ten years that they won't be competing in October baseball. Injuries and inconsistent performance have plagued the team, leaving fans and analysts questioning what went wrong. This matters because the Astros have been a dominant force in recent years, and their absence from the postseason raises concerns about their future and the direction of the franchise.

The Chicago Cubs are gearing up for the wild-card series against the San Diego Padres, with a workout session at Wrigley Field that took place on September 29, 2025. This is an exciting time for the team and its fans as they prepare for the playoffs, especially with the MLB announcing the start times for their first two games. However, rookie pitcher Cade Horton expressed disappointment about not being able to participate in the series, highlighting the emotional stakes involved. The Cubs will need key players to step up if they hope to make a deep postseason run, making this moment crucial for the team's aspirations.

As the MLB playoffs heat up, each team has a compelling case for why they could clinch the World Series title, alongside a potential pitfall that could derail their hopes. This analysis not only highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the playoff teams but also adds excitement for fans as they anticipate the championship. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for fans and analysts alike, as it shapes the narrative of this thrilling postseason.

The Texas Rangers and manager Bruce Bochy have mutually agreed to part ways after a successful three-year tenure that culminated in the team's first World Series title in 2023. This decision, announced after the conclusion of the 2025 season, marks the end of Bochy's contract and his impactful role with the franchise. The split is significant as it reflects both the achievements and the transitional phase the Rangers are entering as they look to build on their recent success.

Bruce Bochy's departure as the Texas Rangers manager marks the end of a significant era, especially following the team's first World Series title in 2023. His leadership brought the franchise to new heights, making this change particularly impactful for fans and players alike. The decision raises questions about the team's future direction and how they will build on their recent success.

Think you know everything about Wimbledon? Think again. This article digs up 13 bizarre, little-known facts about the iconic tennis tournament—things so unexpected they’ll make you do a double-take. From quirky traditions to historical oddities, it’s a fun deep dive into the hidden side of the sport’s most prestigious event.

The Denver Broncos celebrated a significant victory over the Cincinnati Bengals with a score of 28-3 on Monday Night Football, showcasing their strong defense and a well-executed offense led by quarterback Bo Nix. This win not only improves their record to 2-2 but also boosts team morale, as players like Courtland Sutton express pride in their performance. Such victories are crucial for building momentum in the season and can set the tone for upcoming games.

The Cincinnati Bengals faced another tough defeat, this time against the Denver Broncos, marking their second consecutive blowout loss in the 2025 NFL season. Ja'Marr Chase, a key player for the Bengals, expressed frustration over the team's performance, highlighting what he believes is missing from their game. This loss is significant as it raises concerns about the Bengals' ability to compete effectively this season, especially after their previous embarrassing defeat to the Minnesota Vikings.

The Miami Dolphins celebrated their first win of the season against the New York Jets, despite a concerning injury to star player Tyreek Hill. This victory is significant as it boosts the team's morale and sets a positive tone for the rest of the season, showing resilience in the face of adversity.

In a recent match, Everton and West Ham ended in a 1-1 draw, highlighting some key performances and statistics. West Ham's defense has struggled this season, conceding eight goals from corners, matching their total from the entire previous season. On the brighter side, Bowen has been in fantastic form, contributing to 11 goals in his last 12 league games. This match is significant as it showcases the ongoing challenges and successes within the Premier League, keeping fans engaged and teams striving for improvement.

Pedro Neto recently charmed the media with his witty response about why he enjoys playing two games a week. His fluency in English and engaging personality made him the ideal choice to represent his team during a challenging time. This not only highlights his communication skills but also his positive attitude towards the demands of professional sports, which can inspire both fans and teammates alike.