Ochoa will not suit up for El Tri after hanging up his gloves on international duty following the 2026 World Cup. The veteran netminder made his final appearance for Mexico in their final group stage match.

With former Mexican captain and Barcelona star Rafael Marquez taking over as head coach, El Tri looks to hit the ground running in this new cycle as both managers test out revamped lineups ahead of kickoff.

Colombia enters today’s match without star playmaker James Rodriguez, while Mexico will be without veteran striker Raul Jimenez, opening the door for fresh faces to step into prominent roles on both sides.

Marquez aims for right foot forward in managerial debut

Expectations are high following Marquez’s official appointment as head coach. The former Mexican captain steps in to fill the void left by Javier Aguirre, bringing instant credibility and excitement to the touchline.

Eager to snap a recent slide against Colombia, Mexico faces a stern test in this marquee matchup. Both managers have summoned a mixture of youth and experience as they begin ushering in the next generation for the upcoming cycle.

Mexico roster breakdown: international friendly

Marquez has crafted a balanced 26-man roster blending established international veterans with emerging young talent designed to contend in upcoming tournament windows. Here is the official call-up list for El Tri:

• Goalkeepers:
  • Raul Rangel (Guadalajara / Chivas)
  • Alex Padilla (Athletic Club)
  • Oscar Garcia (Club Leon)
• Defenders:
  • Johan Vasquez (Genoa)
  • Cesar Montes (Lokomotiv Moscow)
  • Israel Reyes (Club America)
  • Jorge Sanchez (Atlas)
  • Jesus Gallardo (Toluca)
  • Mateo Chavez (AZ Alkmaar)
  • Victor Guzman (Rayados de Monterrey)
  • Diego Campillo (Guadalajara)
  • Everardo Lopez (Toluca)
• Midfielders:
  • Erik Lira (Cruz Azul)
  • Luis Chavez (Dynamo Moscow)
  • Alvaro Fidalgo (Real Betis)
  • Gilberto Mora (Tijuana)
  • Luis Romo (Guadalajara)
  • Orbelin Pineda (AEK Athens)
  • Jeremy Marquez (Cruz Azul)
  • Obed Vargas (Atletico Madrid)
  • Alan Cervantes (Club America)
  • Denzell Garcia (FC Juarez)
• Forwards:
  • Hirving Lozano (LA Galaxy)
  • Santiago Gimenez (Porto)
  • Roberto Alvarado (Guadalajara)
  • Armando Gonzalez (Olympiacos)
  • Alexis Vega (Toluca)
  • German Berterame (Inter Miami)
  • Isaias Violante (Club America)
  • Hugo Camberos (Guadalajara)

Key takeaways

• Guillermo ‘Memo’ Ochoa retired from international duty following the 2026 World Cup.
• Rafael Marquez takes over as Mexico’s head coach replacing Javier Aguirre.
• Mexico’s manager crafted a 26-man roster blending veterans with young emerging talent.

The Three Lions pushed for an equalizer late, but Spain ultimately proved too much to handle. England manager Thomas Tuchel turned to his bench after the break in an effort to spark the attack, but the substitutes failed to deliver the desired impact.

England must now shift its focus to a September 29 matchup against Czechia. Meanwhile, Spain returns home for its first match on domestic soil since lifting the World Cup trophy, hosting Croatia on the same day.

Gavi is sidelined for today’s match against England as he serves a suspension stemming from the post-match melee following Spain’s World Cup final victory over Argentina in the United States.

The Barcelona midfielder clashed with Argentina’s Leandro Paredes after the final whistle, prompting FIFA to issue suspensions to both players and several staff members. As a result, head coach Luis de la Fuente was forced to adjust his squad and call up a replacement to fill the void.

With kickoff time and broadcast details for England vs Spain locked in for U.S. viewers, fans are eager to see how the newly crowned world champions look in their first official match since lifting the trophy.

Predicted lineup for Spain without Gavi

Paced by rising star Lamine Yamal, De la Fuente will look to get Spain’s Nations League campaign off on the right foot. Here is how La Roja is expected to line up today:

• Goalkeeper: Unai Simon
• Defenders: Eric Garcia (RB), Pau Cubarsi (CB), Aymeric Laporte (CB), Marc Cucurella (LB)
• Midfielders: Rodri (DM), Pedri (CM), Dani Olmo (AM)
• Forwards: Lamine Yamal (RW), Mikel Oyarzabal (ST), Nico Williams (LW)

Spain aims to immediately establish itself as the team to beat in the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League, while an eager England side will try to pull off the home upset with the crowd behind them.

Key takeaways

• Midfielder Gavi is suspended following a brawl in the World Cup final against Argentina.
• Lamine Yamal is expected to lead the Spanish lineup in UEFA Nations League action.
• Spain plays its first match as World Cup champions against England.

However, recent comments from Guerrero Jr. sparked a firestorm among the fan base over the week. On Friday, the first baseman spoke to the media alongside his Hall of Fame father to address the controversy and express regret over his statement. “I feel like the comments I made the other day didn’t accurately reflect what I really wanted to say. Everyone deserves an apology from me,” Guerrero Jr. told reporters.

Guerrero ignited a wave of backlash across social media after an interview posted by content creator Masterflip, during which the slugger remarked that the Blue Jays “didn’t pay me to hit 40 [home runs] every year.”

While other MLB contenders scratch and claw for a postseason berth—such as the Philadelphia Phillies, who missed an opportunity to lock up their spot heading into October—the Blue Jays find themselves navigating internal turbulence surrounding the face of their franchise.

Vladdy’s struggles this season

Following a dominant 2025 campaign, Guerrero Jr. has endured a surprisingly down year. His lingering struggles at the plate are reflected in his numbers: just nine home runs and 56 RBIs through 142 games.

Guerrero has been hampered by various nagging injuries throughout the year, missing around 17 games. Playing through constant physical discomfort has prevented him from finding a rhythm or establishing consistent timing in the batter’s box.

MLB legend weighs in on Guerrero Jr.’s comments

Addressing the noise surrounding the Toronto star, MLB legend Pedro Martinez stepped up to defend Guerrero Jr.’s intent. “He was misinterpreted. What he meant is that contract came from what he’s already done and what he can still do,” Martinez said to El Emergente’s Marcos Grunfeld. “That’s a young man talking—he just didn’t explain himself the right way.”

Despite the current turmoil, Vladdy still has plenty of time to prove that his long-term contract extension was well-earned. If he can turn things around next spring, he remains positioned to re-establish himself as one of the premier hitters in Major League Baseball.

Key takeaways

• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. apologized for recent comments that sparked backlash among fans.
• MLB legend Pedro Martinez defended the slugger, stating his comments were misinterpreted.
• The Toronto Blue Jays have been officially eliminated from 2026 postseason contention.

“Whatever happened tonight, we aren’t getting back. So we have to be ready to play tomorrow. That’s all there is to it,” Mattingly told reporters after the series opener against the Rays.

The loss kept the door open for the Arizona Diamondbacks, who kept their playoff hopes alive with an 11-4 victory over the San Diego Padres. Because Arizona holds the head-to-head tiebreaker, the Diamondbacks would leapfrog Philadelphia in the standings with a win Saturday paired with another Phillies loss.

Already dealing with a concerning injury update on Luis Arraez, the Phillies must regroup quickly for Game 2 against the Rays to maintain control of their postseason destiny, and hope the Padres can hand Arizona a setback.

Mattingly weighs in on Phillies’ late-season slump

Late September in Major League Baseball leaves no room for error, and after dropping three straight games, Philadelphia finds itself under heavy pressure. Yet when asked about the team’s recent skid, Mattingly remained defiant about where his squad stands.

“I guess I’d rather be in our spot than theirs because we can still control our own destiny,” Mattingly said, emphasizing that Philadelphia still holds the advantage entering the final two days.

How the Phillies can clinch a Wild Card spot today

To punch their ticket to the Wild Card round on Saturday, the Phillies must defeat the Rays and pair that victory with a Diamondbacks loss to the Padres. A Diamondbacks win, however, pushes the race to Sunday’s regular-season finale. To avoid a high-anxiety Game 162, Mattingly’s squad will need to handle business Saturday rather than leave their playoff fate to the last possible moment.

Key takeaways

• The Philadelphia Phillies dropped their series opener against the Tampa Bay Rays.
• Don Mattingly told reporters his squad still controls its own playoff destiny.
• The Arizona Diamondbacks defeated the San Diego Padres 11-4 to stay alive.

“He had an injury and just started throwing live [BP] again. He’s not in play right now. Could be down the road, but he’s not in play yet,” Boone told reporters prior to the season series finale against the Baltimore Orioles.

As the Yankees navigate multiple injuries down the stretch—including captain Aaron Judge addressing recent health updates—Lagrange’s potential role remains an intriguing storyline. While unlikely to join a starting rotation led by Max Fried, Carlos Rodon, and rookie standout Cam Schlittler, the big right-hander could offer late-inning punch out of the bullpen if called upon.

Because Lagrange has yet to make his Major League debut, throwing him straight into the postseason pressure cooker presents obvious risks. Still, his electric profile keeps him firmly on Boone’s radar as a high-upside option to bolster the staff during October.

Lagrange’s performance since returning from injury

Lagrange returned to competitive action on September 16, tossing a clean, hitless frame with two strikeouts for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. It marked his first game action since late June following a multi-month stint on the injured list with a right shoulder sprain.

Before the injury, Lagrange went through a brief bump in the road, surrendering five earned runs in relief on June 28. Across 19 Triple-A appearances overall this season, he posted a 1–4 record with a 4.48 ERA and 85 strikeouts in 64.1 innings.

Yankees’ projected postseason rotation without Lagrange

If the New York Yankees keep Carlos Lagrange in a relief role or leave him off the active roster, New York is set to lean on a dependable rotation core heading into October:

Projected postseason rotation:

• Gerrit Cole (RHP): Anchoring the staff as the undisputed ace heading into October.
• Max Fried (LHP): Partnering with Cole at the top of the playoff rotation.
• Carlos Rodón (LHP): Slotting in as a key middle-of-the-rotation starter.
• Cam Schlittler (RHP): Solidifying his spot in the rotation following an impressive campaign.
• Will Warren (RHP): Providing versatile rotation depth for Boone’s staff.

Key takeaways

• Aaron Boone clarified prospect Carlos Lagrange is currently not in play for pitch duties.
• Carlos Lagrange returned on September 16 with a clean, two-strikeout frame in Triple-A.
• The New York Yankees projected rotation features Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, and Carlos Rodon.

Until his departure, Mbappe had served as France’s primary catalyst against a stubborn Turkish defense that had kept Les Bleus contained. His 54th-minute finish finally broke the deadlock in what had been a tightly contested, defensive battle.

Uncertainty now looms over the superstar forward, who left the pitch in visible discomfort. With three key international fixtures remaining in this window, France will hold its breath as medical staff evaluate the severity of Mbappe’s injury.

Meanwhile, Turkiye got off to a sluggish start in League A of the 2026–28 UEFA Nations League cycle. Though the hosts pushed aggressively in the second half, French goalkeeper Mike Maignan delivered a sensational performance between the posts to keep them at bay.

Mbappe extends his legacy in France

With his strike against Turkiye, Mbappe padded his ledger as Les Bleus’ all-time top scorer, bringing his total to 67 goals in 107 international appearances. The finish further cements his historic record atop the French national team’s scoring charts.

The goal also brought Mbappe to 10 career UEFA Nations League tallies, pulling him level with Swedish forward Viktor Gyokeres. However, he still trails Norway’s Erling Haaland, who leads the competition’s all-time charts with an astounding 21 goals in 17 matches.

While Mbappe continues to shine internationally, his workload remains a point of emphasis for Real Madrid. With Los Blancos sitting on 16 points through seven matches, Madrid will need their marquee superstar at full strength ahead of a grueling stretch across LaLiga and the UEFA Champions League.

Key takeaways

• Kylian Mbappe exited in the 58th minute following an apparent right leg injury.
• Goalkeeper Mike Maignan delivered a sensational performance to keep Turkiye at bay.
• France’s captain brought his record scoring total to 67 goals in 107 appearances.

Gil was optioned alongside fellow right-hander Bradley Hanner, leaving one final roster spot up for grabs, as the Yankees announced on Thursday. While Gil had an opportunity to pitch his way onto the October roster, a rocky, walk-heavy outing against the Tampa Bay Rays sealed his fate.

In addition to bullpen decisions, the Yankees are closely monitoring their key injured stars as October approaches. On that front, manager Aaron Boone addressed the media to clear the air regarding conflicting reports about Aaron Judge’s status.

Boone also remains hopeful that slugger Giancarlo Stanton can return in time for the postseason, as the organization continues evaluating his physical readiness through live drills and simulated games.

Yankees’ potential postseason roster

While the front office awaits definitive health updates on Judge, Stanton, and outfielder Trent Grisham, the baseline roster is coming into focus for their Wild Card showdown against the archrival Boston Red Sox, who are facing injury concerns of their own regarding catcher Willson Contreras.

Here is how the Yankees’ postseason roster is projecting:

• Starting Rotation: Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Cam Schlittler, Will Warren
• Relief Pitchers: David Bednar, Paul Blackburn, Michael Fulmer, Brent Headrick, Tim Hill, John Schreiber, Ryan Yarbrough
• Catchers: Austin Wells, Ali Sánchez
• Infielders: Jazz Chisholm Jr., Paul Goldschmidt, Ryan McMahon, Anthony Volpe, José Caballero, Luis García Jr., Amed Rosario, George Lombard Jr., Ben Rice (1B/DH)
• Outfielders: Cody Bellinger, Heliot Ramos, Spencer Jones

As New York prepares for October baseball, fans are eager to watch the latest chapter in the game’s greatest rivalry unfold, with a spot in the ALDS against the division-champion Tampa Bay Rays hanging in the balance.

Key takeaways

• Luis Gil was optioned to the Florida Complex League ahead of October.
• Aaron Boone addressed conflicting media reports regarding Aaron Judge’s status.
• New York projects Gerrit Cole to lead its postseason starting rotation.

Neither Calhanoglu nor Yildiz will feature for Turkiye against France after injury issues kept them out of head coach Vincenzo Montella’s squad for this international window entirely.

On one hand, Calhanoglu was sidelined after picking up a muscle injury during club duty ahead of the break. On the other, Yildiz suffered a fractured fifth metatarsal in his left foot during Juventus’ Serie A opener against Frosinone.

With how to watch and start time in the US confirmed for Turkiye vs France in the UEFA Nations League, both sides are looking to kick off Group A1 on the right foot in a high-stakes group that also features European powerhouses Italy and Belgium.

Turkiye’s predicted lineup without Calhanoglu and Yildiz

Along with Calhanoglu and Yildiz, Turkiye will also be without defender Mert Muldur, who remains out with an injury. Here is how Montella’s side is expected to line up against France:

• Goalkeeper: Ugurcan Cakir
• Defenders: Zeki Celik (RB), Merih Demiral (CB), Abdulkerim Bardakci (CB), Ferdi Kadioglu (LB)
• Midfielders: Ismail Yuksek, Salih Ozcan, Arda Guler (CAM), Kerem Akturkoglu (LW), Yunus Akgun (RW)
• Forward: Baris Alper Yilmaz (ST)

With Real Madrid playmaker Guler pulling the strings in midfield, Turkiye aims to pull off a home statement victory over France before turning its focus to a Matchday 2 fixture against Italy.

Key takeaways

• Turkiye will open its 2026–28 UEFA Nations League campaign without two key figures.
• Kenan Yildiz was ruled out after fracturing a metatarsal during Juventus’ Serie A opener.
• Vincenzo Montella will rely on playmaker Arda Guler to lead Turkiye’s midfield setup.

The Phillies must win today to keep their hopes alive for a Wild Card spot. However, they also need the Arizona Diamondbacks to drop at least one of their three remaining games against the San Diego Padres, another franchise that has already punched its ticket to October.

Because the Diamondbacks hold the tiebreaker, Philadelphia needs that exact scenario to play out. The Phillies enter the day at 87-72, while Arizona sits right behind them at 85-74. Put simply, Philadelphia’s magic number is down to two as they prepare to face the critical games ahead.

Philadelphia’s fan base knows the team must overcome significant roster adversity down the stretch. Key players like Jesus Luzardo and now Luis Arraez—whose status remains day-to-day for the rest of the season, according to manager Don Mattingly—are nursing injuries with the postseason race coming down to the wire.

Phillies’ turnaround under Mattingly

The Phillies’ season started in near-disaster, stumbling to a miserable 9–19 record by late April to tie for the worst mark in Major League Baseball. Facing a bleak outlook, front-office leadership dismissed manager Rob Thomson on April 28 and elevated bench coach Don Mattingly to interim manager to spark a turnaround.

Under Mattingly, Philadelphia executed a historic resurgence, tearing through May and June on a 38–18 run. The Phillies became the first team in MLB history to go from 10 games under .500 in April to 10 games over .500 before July, powered by an MLB-record five ninth-inning, last-strike comeback wins, Kyle Schwarber’s power surge, and elite starting pitching.

That turnaround effectively erased a 10.5-game division deficit and completely flipped the club’s postseason trajectory. Backed by a lockdown bullpen, Philadelphia surged to an 87–72 record entering late September, reclaiming control of its Wild Card destiny heading into the final days of the regular season.

Key takeaways

• The Philadelphia Phillies must win today and need a Diamondbacks loss to reach the Wild Card round.
• A magic number of 2 stands between Philadelphia and securing its postseason berth.
• Don Mattingly guided Philadelphia to an 87–72 record following a 9–19 start to the season.

“Luis had an X-ray, and the results were negative [for a fracture],” Mattingly told reporters postgame. “I’m hopeful that he can play, but we’ll see… even if he can’t, someone else is going to have to step up.”

Arraez has served as an offensive engine for Mattingly since arriving via midseason trade. Mattingly relies heavily on the multi-time batting champion’s elite contact tool and high-on-base profile to set the table for Philadelphia’s power-heavy core as the club fights to lock up a National League Wild Card spot.

While the Phillies are also monitoring left-hander Jesus Luzardo’s impending return from the 15-day injured list, any potential absence for Arraez creates an immediate headline issue for Philadelphia’s offense with October right around the corner.

What do the Phillies lose without Arraez down the stretch?

Under Mattingly, Philadelphia pulled off a remarkable midseason turnaround to put themselves in prime position for a postseason berth. However, losing Arraez at this late stage would be a brutal blow for a lineup looking to finalize its playoff seeding.

Arraez boasts one of the lowest strikeout rates in Major League Baseball and consistently sets the table at the top of the order. Without his contact ability putting pressure on opposing rotations, the Phillies lose their primary catalyst to generate high-percentage scoring opportunities for sluggers like Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber.

Final stretch for the Phillies

Between Arraez’s health and Luzardo’s impending return to the pitching staff, the Phillies are aiming to close out the regular season on a high note as they put the finishing touches on their postseason push.

Heading into their final regular-season series against the Tampa Bay Rays, the Phillies have a chance to officially secure their ticket to October. A strong showing against Tampa Bay will allow Philadelphia to shift its focus entirely to playoff baseball.

Key takeaways

• Luis Arráez sprained his left ankle in the sixth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers.
• The 15-day injured list status of Jesus Luzardo is also being monitored.
• Philadelphia faces the Tampa Bay Rays in their final regular-season series to clinch postseason play.

Neymar will not suit up for Brazil against Australia today after being left off Ancelotti’s squad, a move aligned with his decision to step away from international soccer following the 2026 World Cup.

With a wave of young talent called into the national team setup, Brazil is turning the page toward the 2028 Copa America and the 2030 World Cup. Missing several established stars, the Selecao are aiming to establish a distinct tactical identity after falling short on the world stage.

Anticipation is high for how this matchup will unfold, as Australia presents the first test of Brazil’s Asian tour during the current international window. The attack is expected to flow through Raphinha, who currently stands out as the most accomplished club performer in the squad.

Confirmed lineup for Brazil without Neymar

With the Brazilian talisman absent, the spotlight shifts to burgeoning talents like Endrick and Vinicius Junior, two key players whose European experience will be vital in reshaping Ancelotti’s attack.

Here is the confirmed starting XI for Brazil:

• Goalkeeper: Hugo Souza
• Defenders: Matheuzinho, Marquinhos, Vitor Reis y Douglas Santos
• Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes y Danilo Santos
• Forwards: Estevao, Raphinha, Endrick y Vini Junior.

Brazil aims to present a rejuvenated brand of football, driven to end a 24-year World Cup title drought and instill an aggressive, proactive mentality that keeps top opponents on their heels.

Key takeaways

• Neymar was not called up following his retirement from international duty.
• La Canarinha aims to end a bad streak of 24 years without a title.
• Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the starting XI against Australia.

Cristiano Ronaldo proved to be one of the top performers on the pitch, orchestrating the attack and creating several dangerous opportunities. While the Portuguese superstar had a goal disallowed for offside and put multiple shots on target, he ultimately couldn’t add to his international goal tally and was subbed off.

With a winning start under their belt on Matchday 1 of the 2026–28 UEFA Nations League, Portugal and Ronaldo now turn their attention to a showdown against Norway in Oslo on September 27 as they look to build early momentum in group play.

Neuer is absent for today’s showdown against the Netherlands after officially stepping down from international duty following Germany’s run at the 2026 World Cup.

All eyes now turn to Jurgen Klopp, who makes his highly anticipated debut as Germany‘s head coach. Supporters are eager to see a transformed squad after the team faced sharp criticism for its premature exit against Paraguay in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup.

In addition to Neuer’s retirement, Germany will be without midfielder Leon Goretzka due to an injury. On the opposing side, the Netherlands confirmed that star midfielder Frenkie de Jong will also miss today’s clash.

Germany lineup: Life after Neuer

With Neuer out of the picture, long-time veteran Marc-Andre ter Stegen is set to start in goal against the Netherlands today. Here is a breakdown of Germany’s starting XI:

• Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre ter Stegen
• Defenders: Philipp Treu (Right-Back), Jonathan Tah (Center-Back), Nico Schlotterbeck (Center-Back), Nathaniel Brown (Left-Back)
• Midfielders: Joshua Kimmich (Central Midfield), Felix Nmecha (Central Midfield), Nadiem Amiri (Central Midfield)
• Forwards: Karim Adeyemi (Right Winger), Kevin Schade (Left Winger), Kai Havertz (Striker)

With kickoff times and U.S. broadcast details locked in for the Netherlands vs Germany, soccer fans around the globe will be tuned in to see how this marquee rivalry unfolds, especially with two iconic managers pacing the sidelines in Klopp and Xavi Hernandez.

Key takeaways

• Manuel Neuer will not play after announcing his retirement from international soccer.
• Germany suffered an early elimination from the 2026 World Cup against Paraguay.
• Goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is replacing Neuer in the starting lineup.

De Jong remains sidelined as he continues rehabilitation for a persistent knee injury. The setback capped a frustrating summer that forced him out of the 2026 World Cup and kept him sidelined for Barcelona’s early-season La Liga fixtures.

With kickoff times and broadcast details confirmed in the U.S. for the Netherlands vs Germany, fans are bracing for an intense showdown between two of European football’s traditional powerhouses.

In addition to De Jong, Xavi will be without Donyell Malen, Mats Wieffer, Justin Kluivert, and Matthijs de Ligt due to injury. On the opposite side, Klopp will be forced to shuffle his midfield as Leon Goretzka misses out with a knee issue of his own.

Netherlands lineup without De Jong

Despite the laundry list of absentees, Xavi is anchoring his defense around captain Virgil van Dijk, who remains the team’s vital leader. Here is how the Oranje will stack up against Germany:

• Goalkeeper: Bart Verbruggen
• Defenders: Denzel Dumfries (RB), Jan Paul van Hecke (CB), Virgil van Dijk (CB, C), Micky van de Ven (LB)
• Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (CM), Quinten Timber (CM), Tijjani Reijnders (AM)
• Forwards: Crysencio Summerville (RW), Brian Brobbey (ST), Cody Gakpo (LW)

Both powerhouses enter a new era eager to rebound from disappointing round-of-32 exits at the 2026 World Cup. The Nations League offers a crucial first test as Xavi and Klopp begin shaping their squads for the road to Euro 2028.

Key takeaways

• Managers Xavi Hernandez and Jurgen Klopp will make their international debuts in the match.
• Midfielder Frenkie de Jong remains sidelined due to a persistent knee injury.
• Germany’s Leon Goretzka will miss the game with a knee issue.

Cristiano Ronaldo will start for Portugal today against Wales, something head coach Jorge Jesus had already confirmed on Wednesday. Jesus addressed the squad’s tactical balance and Ronaldo’s role, emphasizing performance over past accomplishments.

As the Portuguese side looks to integrate a new wave of talent to support its veteran core, the objective remains clear: establish the foundation needed to capture another Nations League crown and build momentum toward Euro 2028.

Following Lionel Messi’s retirement from international duty with Argentina, fans at Estadio Jose Alvalade recognize the rarity of these remaining moments on the pitch. The home crowd will gather in Lisbon eager to witness what could be one of Ronaldo’s final competitive appearances on home soil.

Confirmed lineup for Portugal with Cristiano Ronaldo

While Jorge Jesus has kept his starting eleven under wraps, Portugal will rely heavily on the core framework that anchored its squad during the 2026 World Cup.

Here is the confirmed lineup for Portugal:

• Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa
• Defenders: Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes
• Midfielders: Ruben Neves, Vitinha, Pedro Neto, Bruno Fernandes
• Forwards: Joao Félix, Cristiano Ronaldo

Portugal aims to start on the right foot in Group A4 against Wales. A strong opening performance would not only propel Portugal’s quest to defend its trophy, but also move Ronaldo one step closer to the historic milestone of 1,000 career goals.

Key takeaways

• Portugal opens its UEFA Nations League title defense against Wales in Matchday 1.
• Head coach Jorge Jesus gave a clear statement on Cristiano Ronaldo’s starting status.
• The forward continues his pursuit of reaching his 1,000th career goal.

Valverde has been ruled out of today’s friendly for Uruguay against Japan after sustaining an ankle injury during the Madrid Derby between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. The 28-year-old playmaker is expected to miss two to three weeks while recovering.

‘El Pajarito’ was expected to anchor Forlan’s midfield, forcing the newly minted head coach to pivot quickly. In response, Forlan called up Palmeiras midfielder Emiliano Martínez to fill the void left by the Real Madrid star.

Expectations are sky-high for Forlan in his new role. As one of the most decorated players in La Celeste’s history, the former striker intimately understands the squad’s identity and culture as he looks to establish a winning culture early in his international managerial tenure.

Predicted lineup for Uruguay without Valverde

Despite missing Valverde for the kickoff of their Asian Tour in Japan, Uruguay boast a healthy squad otherwise. Anchored by Tottenham’s Rodrigo Bentancur and former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, Uruguay are projected to roll out the following XI against the Samurais Blue:

• Goalkeeper: Santiago Mele
• Defenders: Guillermo Varela, Sebastian Caceres, Mathias Olivera, Joaquin Piquerez
• Midfielders: Nicolas De La Cruz, Rodrigo Bentancur, Manuel Ugarte
• Forwards: Facundo Pellistri, Darwin Nunez, Maximiliano Araujo

Kickoff between Uruguay and Japan is scheduled for 6:05 a.m. ET. Anticipation is building back home in Montevideo as supporters look to see how the team evolves after a turbulent period under former manager Marcelo Bielsa.

Key takeaways

• Federico Valverde will miss the match after suffering a 2-3 week ankle injury.
• Midfielder Emiliano Martinez was called up from Palmeiras to fill the roster vacancy.
• Diego Forlan will debut as head coach for the Uruguay national team against Japan.

“Hopefully, we get another crack at them in the next couple of weeks. They’ve certainly earned the division,” Boone told reporters following the loss in Tuesday’s doubleheader nightcap against the Rays.

Boone must now address pressing roster concerns, as several key players fight to get healthy before the postseason, including team captain Aaron Judge, whose lingering injury suffered against Baltimore remains a primary focus for the medical staff.

Meanwhile, contributors like Jazz Chisholm Jr. are eager to stay on the field, though there are no guarantees he will suit up for the final stretch of the regular season. Given the recent wave of health scares across the roster, the coaching staff is strongly considering resting key starters over the final five games.

Yankees’ hopes to reach the World Series

Heading into the postseason, New York’s starting rotation shapes up as its main catalyst for a deep playoff run. With Carlos Rodon locked in and breakout star Cam Schlittler emerging as the AL Cy Young frontrunner according to Boone, the Bronx Bombers have the frontline pitching capable of fueling a World Series push.

However, question marks remain across the offense. Power hitter Giancarlo Stanton—who underwent physical evaluations on Tuesday—remains a source of uncertainty as the staff determines whether he will be available when October arrives.

What do the Yankees need to do to face the Rays again?

As the Yankees await their opponent in the Wild Card Round—where the Boston Red Sox currently stand as the likely matchup—New York must win the best-of-three series to set up a potential ALCS rematch with the newly crowned division champion Rays.

Expectations remain high in New York as the franchise seeks to break a long-standing title drought, aiming to lift the Commissioner’s Trophy for the first time in 17 years.

Key takeaways

• Aaron Boone expressed hope for another crack at the Rays in the postseason.
• Starting pitcher Max Fried admitted frustration after allowing four earned runs over 6.2 innings.
• The franchise aims to break a 17-year title drought in the upcoming playoffs.

“You don’t want anyone to be celebrating at your stadium,” Fried told the YES Network following the game. “Especially this morning, with the way Carlos came out, we wanted to put some pressure on and win some games. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to follow up what he did this afternoon.”

Fried was blunt about his own performance during the nightcap of Tuesday’s doubleheader. Though Carlos Rodon turned in a gem during his final regular-season start, the Yankees couldn’t complete the sweep, leaving the door open for Tampa Bay to seal the division title.

Looking ahead to the road to October, manager Aaron Boone outlined the team’s strategy for the remaining five games of the regular season. However, Boone also delivered a concerning injury update regarding Aaron Judge, clouding the captain’s availability for the upcoming Wild Card Series.

Fried struggles against Rays’ offense

Tuesday presented a tale of two games for New York’s rotation. Game 1 saw Rodon deliver a dominant performance on the mound to reach the 100-strikeout mark for the season, but Fried was unable to replicate that command in the second matchup.

Fried allowed four earned runs on six hits over 6.2 innings as Tampa Bay pulled away for a 6-1 victory. The sub-par outing highlighted pressing questions about the rotation’s consistency, especially with no margin for error in a short Wild Card Series where a single loss can alter the entire series.

Fried maintains confidence in Yankees’ rotation

Despite his rough outing, Fried expressed full confidence in his fellow rotation members as the postseason approaches. “We’ve got great arms. We’ve got a guy who’s going to win the Cy Young. Anytime you have that guy in your rotation, it’s obviously a good thing. We’ve got a lot of guys throwing the ball really well right now,” Fried remarked.

Key takeaways

• The Tampa Bay Rays clinched the American League East division title and celebrated at Yankee Stadium.
• Max Fried allowed four earned runs over 6.2 innings in a 6-1 defeat, and sounded off on Rays’ celebration.
• The starting pitcher expressed full confidence in New York’s rotation ahead of the postseason.

“Will this be my final year? Maybe. We’ll see. We’ll also see how my body feels. I really don’t know. I’m saying this from the heart,” Ronaldo said regarding his future for both club and country. His comments came shortly after Lionel Messi announced his final match with Argentina during this international friendly window.

Ronaldo has long cemented his legacy as the greatest player in Portuguese history, surpassing Eusebio, the icon who led the national team to a historic third-place finish at the 1966 World Cup.

Jesus, who also managed Ronaldo at Al Nassr when the superstar captured his first official silverware with the Saudi side, noted that while Ronaldo’s quest for 1,000 career goals continues, the milestone won’t be reached solely in a Portugal shirt.

Ronaldo weighs in on his physical readiness to represent Portugal

Now 41, Ronaldo faced questions about his physical readiness to lead Portugal at the start of another Nations League campaign. The captain delivered an emphatic response to reporters.

“Yes, and I’m still proving that I’m capable of being here. You have to prove yourself every day, and I’ve shown with both my clubs and the national team that I’m still scoring goals,“ Ronaldo said when addressing the demands of international soccer.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s international career highlights

While a World Cup trophy has eluded him, Ronaldo captained Portugal to its first major international trophy at Euro 2016, followed by the inaugural Nations League crown. Here is a look at his record-breaking international resume:

• Appearances: 233 caps
• Goals: 146 goals
• Hat-tricks: 10 international hat-tricks
• Major Trophies: UEFA Euro 2016, UEFA Nations League (2019)

Key takeaways

• Cristiano Ronaldo hinted that the current season might be his last for club and country.
• Head coach Jorge Jesus noted the superstar’s pursuit of 1,000 career goals continues.
• The 41-year-old forward has accumulated 146 goals across 233 international appearances for Portugal.

Speaking to reporters following the team’s matchup against the Tampa Bay Rays, Boone signaled that the outing was likely Rodon’s final appearance of the regular season. With a pivotal series against the rival Boston Red Sox looming to close out 2026, the Yankees skipper is strategically managing his rotation to ensure his top arms are fully primed for the postseason.

In the meantime, the Yankees are closely monitoring several key players on the injured list. Following the confirmation of Aaron Judge’s injury, Boone noted that the club is ramping up activities for Giancarlo Stanton as he works his way back from a calf strain.

Boone also revealed a shift in strategy for the final five games of the regular season, opting to manage player workloads conservatively to avoid any further costly injuries at such a critical juncture.

Why is Boone protecting Rodon?

The primary motivation for resting Rodon before the playoffs is his dominant 2026 campaign. Posting a 2.67 ERA, a 7–3 record, and 91 strikeouts over 84.1 innings, Rodon has made a compelling case to be a top rotation option when October arrives.

After reaching the 1,500-career-strikeout milestone against the Rays, Rodon underscored the depth and readiness of a Yankees rotation laser-focused on bringing a World Series title back to the Bronx.

Yankees rotation surging into the postseason

Rodon isn’t the only starter delivering high-caliber results. Left-hander Max Fried has been equally sharp, anchoring the staff with a stellar 2.63 ERA and 100 strikeouts during the regular season.

Then there is breakout star Cam Schlittler, whom Boone recently endorsed as a frontrunner for the American League Cy Young Award. Carrying a 1.94 ERA, a 14–6 record, and 145 strikeouts, Schlittler has established himself as the ultimate ace in New York’s quest for championship gold.

Key takeaways

• Carlos Rodon may have made his final regular season start, manager Aaron Boone announced.
• The Yankees tested Giancarlo Stanton as he recovers from a calf strain injury.
• Pitcher Cam Schlittler posted a 1.94 ERA with 145 strikeouts this regular season.

“It kind of sucks. That’s what we worked on all season, but it’s not the end goal for us. The end goal is the World Series,” Chisholm told YES Network following a disappointing 6–1 loss to the Rays.

As manager Aaron Boone maps out his strategy for the remainder of the regular season, Chisholm is aiming to quickly regain his rhythm after a stint on the 10-day injured list, looking to build on an otherwise strong statistical campaign.

Beyond the loss, the Yankees have pressing concerns to navigate, including recent injury updates provided by Boone regarding Aaron Judge. With October baseball fast approaching, New York must optimize its active roster to ensure a legitimate run at a World Series title.

Chisholm Jr. on his return to the lineup

After missing time due to injury, Chisholm expressed confidence that he is ready to anchor the lineup during the high-stakes stretch ahead. “I just want to be out here with my team and help them win any way I can,” Chisholm told reporters.

In Game 2 of Tuesday’s doubleheader against Tampa Bay, Chisholm went 1-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout. Shaking off rust after an injured list stint is rarely seamless, making these final regular-season games critical for him to lock in his timing ahead of the postseason.

Chisholm’s activation provides a massive boost to the Yankees’ defense, where the second baseman has delivered strong performances all season long. With the division title race coming down to the wire and the postseason looming, attention now turns to how effectively he can produce when New York begins its quest for a championship ring.

Key takeaways

• Jazz Chisholm Jr. declared that winning the World Series remains the team’s ultimate goal.
• The Yankees fell to the Tampa Bay Rays in a 6-1 loss.
• In his return, the second baseman went 1-for-3 with a walk and strikeout.

“Kind of getting guys ready, picking some days for some guys to get off,” Boone told reporters following the 6-1 loss to the Rays. “I will definitely pick some spots for the guys to have days off. Obviously, some high-leverage bullpen guys will pitch, but we are going to be very selective.”

Having already clinched a postseason berth, Boone recognizes that with division title hopes gone and star slugger Aaron Judge battling through an injury, these final low-stakes games are best used to rest key contributors and align the pitching staff for the opening round of October baseball.

Alongside Judge’s lingering issue, the Yankees have also been without Giancarlo Stanton, who was evaluated prior to the Rays game. The team remains in a hold-and-see pattern as it awaits further medical updates to determine if Stanton will be available for the postseason roster.

Yankees’ potential Wild Card rival

Heading into the final games of the 2026 season, the Yankees hold the top American League Wild Card spot (the No. 4 overall seed). Under MLB’s postseason format, the No. 4 seed hosts the No. 5 seed (the second-best Wild Card team) in a best-of-three Wild Card Series, giving New York home-field advantage.

As the standings sit, the archrival Boston Red Sox are positioned to be New York’s first-round opponent, though the Chicago White Sox and Houston Astros remain in contention and could alter that matchup before the weekend is over.

What’s left for the Yankees?

Boone’s squad will finish out its set against Tampa Bay before heading into the final series of the regular season against the Baltimore Orioles, who feature a red-hot Pete Alonso continuing his record-setting campaign.

Key takeaways

• A defeat against Tampa Bay officially locked the New York Yankees into a Wild Card spot.
• Manager Aaron Boone announced plans to rest key contributors before the postseason begins.
• The club currently holds the top American League Wild Card spot as the No. 4 seed.

Following a remarkable turnaround that saw Boston post a 74-55 record after he took the helm, the Red Sox officially dropped the interim tag and signed Tracy to a three-year deal as their permanent manager, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.

The contract also includes a club option for 2030, a deal that could prove to be a steal if the Red Sox build on their regular-season momentum in October and erase the bitter memory of last year’s early exit in the Wild Card Round.

Meanwhile, American League rivals like the New York Yankees are facing a very different narrative in their front office. General manager Brian Cashman reportedly remains under heavy scrutiny, with pressure mounting on his leadership as the team faces a championship-or-bust postseason in pursuit of their first World Series title in 17 years.

What did Tracy do right to turn things around this season?

Several key factors explain how Tracy ignited Boston’s midseason resurgence after Cora’s departure. Chief among them was his ability to maximize top talent called up from Triple-A, leveraging his familiarity with young prospects to make them central to the team’s turnaround.

Even after losing ace Garrett Crochet to injury, Tracy skillfully navigated the pitching rotation. His steady hand helped veterans deliver career years, headlined by Sonny Gray, who currently leads the AL with 17 wins.

Along the way, Tracy’s squad produced historic stretches, including a franchise-record-tying 15-game winning streak. After hitting rock bottom at 32–46 on June 24, Boston went on a staggering 27–3 tear between July 3 and August 7, the best 30-game span in franchise history.

Key takeaways

• The Boston Red Sox hired Chad Tracy as their manager on a three-year deal.
• Pitcher Sonny Gray currently leads the American League with 17 wins.
• The team achieved a franchise-record 27–3 run between July 3 and August 7.

Boone informed reporters that Schmidt underwent tests on his right biceps, and the results brought encouraging news. “It looks like he’s in a pretty good spot,” Boone said. According to MLB insider beat writer Bryan Hoch, Schmidt is scheduled to throw off flat ground to determine his availability for the opening playoff series.

Schmidt’s impending return provides a major boost to a rotation already featuring strong regular-season performances from Max Fried and rookie standout Cam Schlittler.

Schlittler, in particular, has made a compelling case for American League Cy Young consideration, anchoring a rotation that Boone hopes can carry New York back to the World Series.

Grisham among key outfielders Boone hopes to rely on in October

In addition to monitoring Judge and leaning on Schlittler, Boone is hopeful outfielder Trent Grisham can contribute during the postseason. Grisham, who landed on the 10-day injured list with a Grade 2 right hamstring strain, could serve as a key contributor if cleared in time.

Meanwhile, despite early optimism surrounding Giancarlo Stanton’s potential return, there is currently no indication he will be available for the Wild Card round, forcing the Yankees to rely on their depth in the outfield and at designated hitter.

Updating the rest of the Yankees’ injured list

Regarding other names on the injured list, infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. (10-day IL) and left-hander Ryan Weathers remain sidelined, with neither expected to return before the conclusion of the regular season.

Reliever Fernando Cruz, currently on the 15-day IL, remains a candidate to return for the postseason roster. However, like Stanton, right-hander Kervin Castro remains on the 60-day IL and is expected to miss the remainder of the year.

Key takeaways

• Clarke Schmidt received encouraging test results on his right biceps before throwing tests.
• Pitcher Cam Schlittler has emerged as a contender for the American League Cy Young.
• Outfielder Trent Grisham was placed on the 10-day injured list with a hamstring strain.

“The World Baseball Classic forced me to accelerate my physical preparation, and I couldn’t perform the routine that made me the best pitcher in the league,” Skenes told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

A primary factor in Skenes’ regression was a notable dip in fastball velocity, which dropped from an average of 98.1 mph down to 96.8 mph. Skenes pointed directly to the disrupted offseason routine following Team USA’s loss to Venezuela in the WBC championship game as the main culprit behind the lost tick on his heater.

Skenes isn’t the only star who appeared to suffer a WBC hangover. Other key members of Team USA have experienced midseason hitches, including the New York Yankees Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, whose recent injury update from manager Aaron Boone offered little optimism as several high-profile clubs—including the New York Mets—watch their playoff hopes slip away.

Skenes’ struggles this season

Beyond the velocity decline, several key metrics that previously established Skenes as one of baseball’s premier starters—and the subject of trade speculation—took a step back this season.

Opposing hitters capitalized on his reduced fastball command and decreased sharp break on secondary offerings, resulting in higher contact rates and increased damage early in outings.

Skenes endured a noticeable regression across his 2026 campaign with the Pirates, finishing with a 10–11 record and a 3.91 ERA. On a positive note, the 24-year-old remained durable, making 31 starts and racking up 192 strikeouts over 168 innings.

Key takeaways

• Paul Skenes attributed his 2026 pitching struggles to his accelerated World Baseball Classic preparation.
• His average fastball velocity declined significantly, dropping from 98.1 mph down to 96.8 mph.
• The right-hander finished the regular season with a 10–11 record and a 3.91 ERA.

“We’re planning on him not being a part of that,” Boone told, as cited by MLB insider Bryan Hoch when asked if Judge would be available for the postseason, adding that the club currently has no set timeline for his recovery.

Judge was placed on the 10-day injured list due to a right calf strain after making a brief comeback from a rib fracture, leaving the Yankees to navigate the final week of the regular season and potentially the opening round of the playoffs without their centerpiece.

The update adds a fresh layer of concern to Judge’s postseason outlook, contrasting with his recent optimism about being ready for the Wild Card round as lingering uncertainty now hangs over his status.

More on Judge’s injury status

Yankees fans had been anxiously awaiting details on the severity of Judge’s calf injury, and Boone provided clarity by confirming it is a “moderate-grade” strain, explaining why New York’s medical staff is taking a cautious approach with his recovery timeline.

Boone also disclosed that Judge received a PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injection in his right calf during Monday’s off-day. The team is now monitoring how he responds to the procedure, with time ticking down as the Yankees finalize their preparations for October baseball.

While the Yankees work to keep the rest of the roster healthy, Judge’s availability remains the biggest question mark hanging over the club, fueling doubts about how far Bronx Bombers can go in the postseason without their captain at full strength.

Key takeaways

• Aaron Boone ruled out Aaron Judge for the upcoming American League Wild Card Series.
• The team placed their captain on the 10-day injured list following a calf strain.
• The slugger received a PRP injection in his right calf during Monday’s off-day.

Cease told reporters that he pitched through right shoulder discomfort during his outing against Houston, further complicating Toronto’s playoff push. “I almost felt like I was hurting the team,” Cease said regarding his performance. “It’s definitely a bit heavy and achy, just not normal.”

His candid admissions help explain the visible discomfort he displayed on the mound against the Astros, which ultimately led to him missing his scheduled start in the series opener against the Baltimore Orioles. Despite respectable overall numbers, Cease took full accountability for fighting through the ailment during a critical juncture in the pennant race.

Meanwhile, Pete Alonso delivered for the Orioles in that series opener, reaching a rare MLB milestone to keep Baltimore’s postseason hopes alive. With both clubs battling for a Wild Card spot despite slim odds, every game down the stretch carries must-win urgency.

Cease addresses shoulder inflammation

In a crucial piece of news for Toronto’s October aspirations, Cease has avoided the injured list, leaving open the possibility that he could pitch again before the regular season concludes.

“It’s not something I need surgery for or anything like that, it’s just inflammation,” Cease revealed regarding the diagnosis. While confirmed out for the remainder of the Orioles series, he remains hopeful to return for the final series of the regular season.

Rotation options for crucial final stretch

To fill the void against the Orioles on Tuesday, the Blue Jays are turning to veteran right-hander Max Scherzer. For Wednesday’s series finale, Toronto is expected to line up either Chad Dallas or José Soriano on the mound.

With anxiety mounting among the fan base over Toronto’s Wild Card chances, the Blue Jays hope to manage without Cease in Baltimore and potentially get him back on the hill for their critical regular-season finale against the Cincinnati Reds.

Key takeaways:

• Dylan Cease missed his scheduled starting role against the Baltimore Orioles due to right shoulder inflammation.
• Max Scherzer was selected to start Tuesday’s game for Toronto during the crucial series.
• Avoiding surgery allows the affected starter a chance to pitch in the regular-season finale.

According to OptaData, Alonso became the first player in MLB history to hit 40-plus home runs in his debut season in both the National League and American League. After launching 53 homers as a rookie with the New York Mets in 2019, he reached the 40-homer milestone once again in his first year with the Orioles.

Coming off an emotional series against his former team in Queens, Alonso continues to demonstrate that he is built for the spotlight as Baltimore seeks redemption following a quick exit in the 2024 AL Wild Card round against the Kansas City Royals.

Though Alonso spoke warmly of his time with the Mets, his primary focus remains on securing a postseason berth in Baltimore. The team has mounted a gritty second-half push, keeping an AL Wild Card berth technically within reach.

Orioles’ longshot postseason picture

In sports, a slim chance is still a chance. While analytical models give the Orioles just a 0.5% probability of securing an AL Wild Card berth, the clubhouse maintains a firm belief that it can beat the odds.

The mathematical reality is daunting. Baltimore trails in the Wild Card race and needs a chaotic combination of losses from the teams ahead of them, including the Chicago White Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Houston Astros.

A single win from any of those wild-card contenders drastically diminishes Baltimore’s odds. To have any realistic shot at October baseball, the Orioles must run the table over their final slate of games and hope for plenty of help across the league.

Remaining schedules for Baltimore and Wild Card contenders

The odds are long, but the schedule sets up a high-stakes final week of the regular season. Here is how the remaining slates look for Baltimore, Toronto, Chicago, and Houston:

• Baltimore Orioles
  • vs. Toronto Blue Jays (2 games): Sept. 22–23 at Camden Yards
  • at New York Yankees (3 games): Sept. 25–27 at Yankee Stadium
• Chicago White Sox
  • at New York Yankees (3 games): Sept. 22–24
  • vs. Cleveland Guardians (3 games): Sept. 25–27
• Houston Astros
  • vs. Seattle Mariners (3 games): Sept. 22–24
  • at Texas Rangers (3 games): Sept. 25–27
• Toronto Blue Jays
  • at Baltimore Orioles (2 games): Sept. 22–23
  • at Tampa Bay Rays (3 games): Sept. 25–27

According to ESPN‘s Jeff Passan, Bregman avoided surgery following the injury, offering hope that he could return in time for the Wild Card round, a crucial development as the Milwaukee Brewers have already clinched the NL Central title.

The freak accident occurred in the fourth inning of the Cubs‘ matchup against the Cincinnati Reds. Teammate Michael Busch checked his swing on a pitch, causing the ball to foul off the dirt and strike Bregman directly on the left cheekbone while he was standing in the on-deck circle.

Chicago is not the only contender navigating key injuries ahead of the playoffs; the New York Yankees are also dealing with uncertainty after placing team captain Aaron Judge on the 10-day injured list with limited details provided on his status.

Bregman’s impact on the roster this season

In the first year of a five-year contract, Bregman has provided the Cubs with essential elite production on both sides of the diamond, solidifying his role as a middle-of-the-order cornerstone capable of powering a deep postseason run.

Through 153 games, Bregman delivered steady, high-leverage production, batting .262 with 26 home runs and 89 RBIs. His elite plate discipline and run-producing ability gave Chicago a reliable power threat and an on-base anchor in crucial moments throughout the year.

Defensively, Bregman brought immediate stability to third base. His presence allowed promising infielder Matt Shaw to transition into a high-value utility role, significantly strengthening Chicago’s bench depth while giving the clubhouse a proven veteran leader down the stretch.

Which games will Bregman miss?

While the injury rules Bregman out for the remainder of the regular season, he will miss Chicago’s final two series against the Miami Marlins and Boston Red Sox, a crucial stretch where the Cubs aim to lock up their Wild Card berth before his potential playoff return.

“Being a manager in Major League Baseball is a huge commitment, very huge commitment,” Beltran told reporters. “I’m not saying that I’m not willing to take that commitment, but right now, at the position where I am today in life, I love to be a dad. I love to be a husband. I love to be involved in the Carlos Beltran Baseball Academy in Puerto Rico. Being a manager, you would not be able to do that full-time.”

Beltran’s comments signal that his current priorities lie outside the dugout, leaving the door open for other potential candidates as the Mets evaluate their managerial options for 2027.

In the meantime, the Mets are fighting to avoid a last-place finish in the NL East during the final stretch of the 2026 season, encouraged slightly by positive medical updates regarding outfielder Jared Young.

Reported candidates in the mix for managerial job

Even with Beltran occasionally linked to the opening, President of Baseball Operations David Stearns and team leadership are casting a wide net to find the right fit for the franchise.

Several high-profile candidates have emerged in national reporting:

• Alex Cora: Frequently cited by MLB insiders as a primary target if he becomes available.
• Albert Pujols: The future Hall of Famer has been widely reported as a candidate ownership and David Stearns are eager to speak with.
• David Ross: The former Chicago Cubs manager publicly stated on ESPN that he would be interested in interviewing for the position.
• Rocco Baldelli: The former Minnesota Twins skipper has been identified by national reporters as an experienced candidate who could provide stability.
• Don Mattingly / Rob Thomson: Veteran names linked speculatively depending on how managerial openings unfold across the league this offseason.

With only a week remaining in the regular season, the Mets face a crucial offseason as they look to reshape their leadership and position the franchise for a bounce-back campaign in 2027.

However, Cole’s recent surge on the bump has generated plenty of momentum within the organization. When asked whether the veteran righty would take the ball in the Wild Card round, manager Aaron Boone delivered a resolute answer: “I would expect Gerrit Cole to start, yes.”

Boone faces a compelling rotational dilemma, given the standout performances of his depth chart. Max Fried has anchored his share of gems, while breakout starter Cam Schlittler has delivered a dominant campaign, one that Boone firmly believes warrants American League Cy Young honors.

With Aaron Judge sidelined for the remainder of the regular season, the Yankees are relying heavily on their pitching depth to carry the load into October. That group could get another boost with Ryan Weathers tracking toward a postseason return.

Cole’s rollercoaster season

Cole’s season started with immediate frustration before he ever threw an official pitch. Lingering elbow concerns during Spring Training delayed his season debut, forcing him to miss the opening two months of the championship schedule and putting extra stress on the Yankees‘ starting rotation.

Dominant, double-digit strikeout performances—including a 10-strikeout shutout performance over 6.2 innings against Kansas City and multi-hit gems against Chicago and Atlanta—showed he remains one of the most electric arms in baseball.

A recurring issue throughout Cole’s 2026 campaign has been his home run rate. When Cole misses over the plate, opposing hitters have made him pay, elevating his HR/9 rate above his career averages and making several of his outings much more high-stress than his strikeout numbers would indicate.

The Yankees officially placed Judge on the 10-day injured list retroactively to September 17 due to a right calf strain. Under a best-case scenario, the slugger could rejoin the lineup for the regular-season finale against the Baltimore Orioles on September 27, keeping him in frame to participate in the upcoming postseason.

As teammates like Cody Bellinger weigh in on the loss of their captain, the Bronx Bombers are rallying to maintain their form, steadfast in their pursuit of securing a spot in the World Series.

Despite the blow, the team boasts bright spots across the roster—most notably rookie phenomenon Cam Schlittler, whom manager Aaron Boone touted as a frontrunner for the American League Cy Young Award. Additionally, the pitching staff could get a major boost for October with left-hander Ryan Weathers nearing the final stages of his rehab.

Judge’s replacement while recovering

To fill the void left by Judge, the organization announced across its official media channels that utilityman Max Schuemann has been recalled from Triple-A, and will be available for the Yankees in the remainder of the regular season.

Schuemann has appeared in 41 games for New York this season, posting a .194/.333/.361 slash line with a .694 OPS, 14 runs scored, 17 hits, and 21 strikeouts, providing versatile depth as the club navigates the final week of the regular season.

All eyes now turn to Judge’s recovery, as the Yankees remain single-mindedly focused on a solitary objective: securing a return to the World Series and snapping their long championship drought.

When asked about Schlittler’s transformative presence in the rotation, Boone didn’t mince words: “Well, he’s gonna win the Cy Young!” The manager’s ringing endorsement underscores just how dominant Schlittler has been on the mound this year.

While Boone continues to navigate rotation depth with Ryan Weathers sidelined for the remainder of the regular season, Schlittler gives the Yankees a legitimate ace to rely on as they gear up for October.

On the offensive side, Boone is also monitoring the return timeline for slugger Aaron Judge, who was sidelined with a calf strain. In the meantime, the Yankees skipper has relied on depth options like Ben Rice and Cody Bellinger to keep the lineup producing.

Key milestones driving Schlittler’s Cy Young case

A stellar 2026 breakout campaign with the Yankees has vaulted Schlittler directly into the front-runner conversation for the American League Cy Young Award. Stepping up as the de facto ace while Gerrit Cole missed time, Schlittler has delivered elite run suppression, swing-and-miss stuff, and exceptional durability.

Here is a breakdown of the key numbers and milestones anchoring Schlittler’s Cy Young candidacy:

• 1.95 ERA: Schlittler took over the MLB ERA lead in September, standing as the only qualified starter with an ERA under 2.00.
• Historical run: His 1.71 ERA through his first 16 starts marked the lowest ERA by a Yankees starter through that stretch since Hall of Famer Whitey Ford in 1964.
• 228 Strikeouts in 184.2 IP (11.1 K/9): Schlittler eclipsed the 200-strikeout mark on August 28 against Boston, becoming the fourth-youngest pitcher in franchise history to achieve the feat.
• Signature outings: Highlighted by a career-high 13-strikeout performance against the Cincinnati Reds on June 19, along with double-digit strikeout shutouts against Philadelphia (12 K) and Atlanta (11 K).

Other top Cy Young contenders

Schlittler isn’t running unopposed in a tightly contested American League race. Strong campaigns from power arm Dylan Cease of the Toronto Blue Jays and left-hander Garrett Crochet of the Boston Red Sox keep them firmly in the mix.

Over in the National League, the Cy Young field features plenty of heavy hitters, headlined by Milwaukee Brewers phenom Jacob Misiorowski, Atlanta Braves veteran Chris Sale, and the Philadelphia Phillies duo of Cristopher Sanchez and Jesus Luzardo.

According to MLB.com beat writer Bryan Hoch, Boone acknowledged that Weathers is unlikely to pitch in a game before the regular season concludes. While the timing isn’t ideal, the overall forecast remains relatively encouraging for New York, as the door stays open for Weathers to make a potential impact out of the bullpen in October.

With the Yankees already managing life without superstar slugger Aaron Judge on the injured list, getting a key pitching arm like Weathers back for the postseason gives Boone another valuable weapon as the club prepares for the high-stakes road ahead.

With lingering questions around how the late-season rotation and bullpen will shake out, Weathers’ health timeline offers the Yankees strategic flexibility as they finalize their October roster.

Current rotation situation for the Yankees

The Yankees are positioning a projected four-man playoff rotation featuring Gerrit Cole, Cam Schlittler, Max Fried, and Carlos Rodon. If Fried requires additional rest for elbow maintenance, right-hander Will Warren serves as the primary contingency option.

Further down the organizational depth chart, Weathers remains a factor despite his current stint on the shelf, joining Clarke Schmidt, who recently returned to the active roster following an extended injury absence.

Weathers’ stats with the Yankees this season

Acquired by New York from the Miami Marlins in January 2026, Weathers stepped in as a dependable rotation arm and spot starter, putting together a strong debut campaign in pinstripes.

• 2026 Season Line:
  • 5–8 record
  • 3.60 ERA
  • 137.1 innings pitched
  • 143 strikeouts
  • 1.22 WHIP
  • 38 walks
  • 130 hits allowed
  • 18 home runs allowed (9.37 K/9, 2.49 BB/9)

While manager Aaron Boone declined to specify how long the slugger will be sidelined, calf injuries notoriously demand patience, even a mild Grade 1 strain typically carries a recovery window of two to three weeks.

With October baseball just a week away, intense focus centers on how the Yankees will navigate the final stretch to ensure Judge is healthy for the postseason. While prospects like Carlos Lagrange offer intriguing depth, losing Judge strips the lineup of its signature power source at a juncture where even a minor stumble could derail their championship aspirations.

Following the recent departure of utility man Oswaldo Cabrera, who was claimed off waivers by the Cincinnati Reds, all eyes turn to who will fill the roster void left by Judge’s latest stint on the IL.

Next man up in Judge’s absence

To plug the gap during Judge’s absence, the Yankees are recalling utility player Max Schuemann from Triple-A for the final stretch of regular-season series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Tampa Bay Rays, and Baltimore Orioles.

With Judge missing significant time this year, other key contributors have stepped up to anchor the offense, most notably Cody Bellinger and breakout slugger Ben Rice.

As the front office weighs its options for the upcoming series, New York must quickly find the right combination to maintain momentum and position itself for a run at the World Series.

Providing a much-needed sigh of relief, manager Andy Green offered an encouraging update on Young’s recovery during a recent press conference, noting that the infielder is in remarkably high spirits. “Young is doing as good as expected or could be hoped for. He’s got his sense of humor intact,” Green said.

The severity of the collision brought the game to a standstill—drawing heartfelt well-wishes from Phillies superstar Bryce Harper—and left the entire organization holding its breath as New York looks to navigate the final stretch of the regular season without one of its most key contributors.

Despite the encouraging update, the strict timeline required by MLB’s concussion protocol makes a swift return improbable, leaving Young’s availability up in the air with just over a week remaining before the postseason.

Green shares a story from Young’s time with the Reds

Reflecting on Young’s tireless work ethic, Green shared an anecdote from their shared time with the Cincinnati Reds, illustrating the 31-year-old’s unyielding passion for the game.

“This guy likes to play so much. He said, ‘Can I drive to Iowa and play?’ I told him, ‘If you want to, but your season could be over.’ I’ve never had a player do that in that situation. Most guys are like, ‘I’m getting optioned from the big leagues, let’s call it a season, let’s move on. It’s good enough,’“ Green recalled.

“Instead, he texted the Triple-A manager and said, ‘I’m coming. I want to play. Can you put me in the lineup?’ He ended up hitting a walk-off home run that day to cap off the minor league season,“ Green added.

Young’s impact on the Mets

Serving primarily as a versatile option at first base, outfield, and designated hitter, the left-handed slugger provided crucial depth above league average, slashing .266 with 9 home runs, 39 RBIs, and a .759 OPS (112 OPS+) across 308 at-bats (342 plate appearances).

The move, officially announced on the Yankees’ social media accounts, adds intrigue to how New York will construct its October roster as the organization seeks to end a 17-year World Series championship drought.

Despite Cabrera’s overall fan-favorite status, his tenure in the Bronx ended quietly following a challenging campaign in which he struggled to make a major-league impact despite solid numbers at the Triple-A level.

With Cabrera out of the fold, the Yankees are shifting their focus to internal reinforcements for the home stretch, including hard-throwing prospect Carlos Lagrange, who is making a strong push during his rehab outings to earn playoff consideration.

Utility options remaining on the Yankees’ roster

Several options remain on the roster to absorb the versatile role left behind by Cabrera. Veterans Amed Rosario and Jose Caballero stand out as primary candidates to fill the void, while former MVP Cody Bellinger and rookie Ben Rice provide additional multi-positional flexibility.

Given Cabrera’s departure, manager Aaron Boone is unlikely to lean on non-roster Triple-A talent for the high-stakes postseason. Instead, October playing time will hinge on how Boone strategically aligns his existing big-league core.

Joined by new teammates like Spencer Steer, Julian Aguiar, and Julian Garcia in Cincinnati, Cabrera will look to make an immediate impression during the season’s final games before evaluating his long-term future in free agency or arbitration.

According to the New York Post‘s Jon Heyman, league insiders remain split on whether Bichette will opt out or choose to stay in Queens, setting up a defining offseason decision for both sides.

Bichette’s debut season in New York has been a true rollercoaster. Plagued by injuries and lingering slumps, the former All-Star shortstop has struggled to replicate his past production while adjusting to his new defensive home at third base.

The Mets’ late-season slide hasn’t sat well with starter Sean Manaea, who openly vented after home fans cheered former Mets slugger Pete Alonso during his return with the Baltimore Orioles. If Bichette decides to walk this winter, it will leave the front office scrambling to fill another major hole in the lineup.

Bichette’s rollercoaster season in Queens

From an alarming early-season slump to a midsummer rebound, Bichette’s performance has left the Mets‘ front office closely monitoring his upcoming contract status, a decision that will heavily influence the organization’s offseason blueprint.

After joining the Mets on a three-year deal during the 2025–26 offseason, Bichette endured a grueling first two months. His early cold spell dragged down his overall offensive numbers while putting added pressure on his full-time transition to third base.

A midseason resurgence helped stabilize his contact profile, raising his batting average back toward the .265 mark and providing much-needed middle-of-the-order run production.

Bichette’s stats in the Mets this season:

• 151 games
• .263 AVG
• .312 OBP
• .390 SLG
• .702 OPS
• 16 HR
• 74 RBI

The opt-out dilemma

With $84 million remaining over the final two years of his contract, Bichette holds an opt-out clause at season’s end. Industry insiders view his impending choice as a true toss-up: weigh the guaranteed security of $42 million annually in New York against testing a thin free-agent market entering his age-29 season.

According to MLB on FOX insider Ken Rosenthal, the Phillies remain hopeful that the southpaw will return, though his timeline and potential role—whether as a traditional starter or out of the bullpen—remain entirely up in the air as he recovers from his injury.

Coming off their series opener against the New York Mets—a game overshadowed by Bryce Harper prioritizing Jared Young’s well-being following a frightening collision—Philadelphia remains focused on locking up a playoff spot and putting the pieces in place for a deep postseason run.

Ever since Luzardo was scratched from his scheduled start against the Atlanta Braves, the organization has been forced into a waiting game, knowing they will need their ace-caliber starter at full strength for the formidable challenges ahead.

What happened to Luzardo?

Luzardo’s stellar 2026 campaign hit a sudden roadblock when the team placed him on the 15-day injured list due to left shoulder inflammation. The setback came on the heels of one of his finest outings of the season, a dominant 12-strikeout complete-game shutout against the Atlanta Braves.

Despite early hopes that the issue was merely minor discomfort, lingering tightness during subsequent evaluations prompted Philadelphia’s medical team to shut down the star lefty for the remainder of the regular season to guard against structural damage.

Though the stint sidelines Luzardo during a crucial stretch of the pennant race, the Phillies maintain cautious optimism that he can be a factor once October baseball arrives.

“I don’t know, but I think he’s more likely to score his 1,000th career goal with Al-Nassr than with the Portugal national team,” Jesus noted when asked about the possibility of Ronaldo hitting the milestone during the UEFA Nations League fixtures.

Jesus emphasized that Ronaldo will be treated like any other player on the roster, making it clear that playing time will be earned on merit rather than reputation, after what happened in the 2026 World Cup, with Cristiano not having the best performance.

With Lionel Messi recently capturing headlines by scoring his 100th goal for Inter Miami, Ronaldo faces another pivotal moment in his career as he prepares for what could be his final season as a professional.

Portugal’s full squad announced by Jorge Jesus

Looking at the roster, Portugal are giving several players an opportunity to prove themselves as the national team builds toward UEFA Euro 2028, where they hope to capture the trophy for the second time in country history.

Here is the full squad selected by Jorge Jesus for his international managerial debut:

• Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (Porto), Rui Silva (Sporting CP), Samuel Soares (Benfica)
• Defenders: Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Goncalo Inacio (Sporting CP), Tomas Araujo (Benfica), Renato Veiga (Villarreal), Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain), Nuno Tavares (Lazio), Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), Joao Cancelo (Barcelona)
• Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (Real Madrid), Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain), Joao Neves (Paris Saint-Germain), Joao Palhinha (Benfica), Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal)
• Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr), Rafael Leao (Galatasaray), Goncalo Ramos (AC Milan), Joao Felix (Al-Nassr), Pedro Neto (Chelsea), Fabio Silva (Borussia Dortmund), Francisco Trincao (Al-Ahli), Francisco Conceicao (Juventus)

Portugal’s opponents in upcoming UEFA Nations League matches

As a former champion of the tournament, Portugal begin their pursuit of another title with four group-stage matches on the horizon. Here is a look at their upcoming schedule:

• Portugal vs. Wales – Sept. 24, 6:45 PM ET
• Norway vs. Portugal – Sept. 27, 6:45 PM ET
• Denmark vs. Portugal – Oct. 1, 6:45 PM ET
• Portugal vs. Norway – Oct. 4, 6:45 PM ET

“First of all, I hope Jared Young is OK. I’m sending my thoughts to his family and hoping for the best,” Harper told Ken Rosenthal on the MLB on FOX broadcast, a gesture that drew widespread praise from both fanbases.

Harper and the Phillies ultimately secured the win in a game that won’t soon be forgotten given the harrowing situation with Young. For New York, the loss serves as another stark wake-up call as they continue to slide toward the bottom of the standings.

While Mets pitcher Sean Manaea didn’t hide his emotions regarding fans showing support for former slugger Pete Alonso—now with the Baltimore Orioles—the franchise is dealing with a far more immediate setback in Young, who had been working to regain his stride after early-season struggles.

What happened to Young?

In the top of the sixth inning, Phillies outfielder Justin Crawford hit a ground ball toward first base. As Mets starting pitcher Nolan McLean sprinted over to cover the bag, his leg inadvertently made direct contact with Young’s head while the first baseman was bending down to field the ball.

Young was knocked unconscious by the impact and remained on the turf while being evaluated by trainers before being carted off the field. He was transported to a local hospital for further diagnostic testing and evaluation.

Young’s status pending medical official diagnosis

The Mets confirmed that Young retained movement and feeling in all of his extremities. Manager Andy Green later shared that Young’s CT scan came back negative for structural damage, but he is exhibiting concussion symptoms and has been placed in MLB’s concussion protocol.

The injury leaves Young’s status uncertain just as he was beginning to show signs of a turnaround this season, a welcome bounce-back after a difficult 2025 campaign following his arrival from the Chicago White Sox.

Lagrange flashed his elite heat in his return, sitting at 100.3 mph with his fastball and topping out at a blistering 102.1 mph. That kind of swing-and-miss velocity gives manager Aaron Boone a high-upside weapon capable of overpowering elite major-league hitters late in games.

With key stars like Aaron Judge driving tension around the team’s overall health, Boone and the front office face crucial decisions on how to construct the playoff pitching staff, specifically whether to prioritize experience or raw, game-changing power.

As veteran righty Clarke Schmidt closes in on his own return, Lagrange presents a tantalizing wildcard option for Boone. His raw speed could provide a crucial power dynamic out of the bullpen for a squad determined to bring a World Series title back to the Bronx.

Lagrange’s path to an October roster spot

Because Lagrange returned so late in the minor-league calendar, he faces a tight timeline to build up game reps and earn a big-league call-up before postseason rosters are set.

The hard-throwing righty has yet to make his Major League debut. While the Yankees shifted him to a relief role at Triple-A to potentially fast-track his elite arm to the big leagues, his primary objective remains logging quality innings and proving health before the regular season concludes.

Boone hasn’t ruled Lagrange out

Despite the long odds of a rookie making his debut on baseball’s biggest stage, Boone publicly noted that he has not ruled Lagrange out as a potential playoff bullpen option.

As the Yankees weigh their pitching options heading into October, adding an electric arm like Lagrange could be the high-risk, high-reward move needed to break their long-standing championship drought and secure the franchise’s 28th World Series title.

Roberts said that Diaz is set to rejoin the team in Los Angeles, after his series finale against the Cincinnati Reds. Once activated, he will initially be deployed in low-leverage situations before earning opportunities in high-leverage spots.

With Roberts applying pressure on Diaz to step up, the right-hander has a chance to prove his acquisition wasn’t in vain after a regular season derailed by injuries.

With Edgardo Henriquez sidelined for the remainder of the regular season but expected to return for October, Diaz faces a critical window to solidify his case for a playoff roster spot.

Roberts’ comments on Shohei Ohtani

Speaking to reporters prior to the series finale against the Reds, Roberts offered an encouraging update on Shohei Ohtani’s recovery following his stint on the 15-day injured list.

“He is back to progressing today. He should be getting some coach pitch this week. There’s no pain. He’s doing everything he needs to do. Everything I hear is really positive,“ Roberts remarked.

As October approaches, Roberts is banking on both Diaz and Ohtani returning to form, giving the Dodgers two massive weapons as they push toward another World Series run.

According to The Stein Line’s Jake Fischer, the Raptors and Leonard have engaged in advanced discussions and are closing in on an extension agreement, following the punishments made by the NBA.

While specific terms have not been finalized, Fischer notes that Leonard is eligible for a maximum two-year extension worth up to $126 million. Coming off the league’s high-profile investigation into his former team’s cap practices, securing a deal of that caliber would represent a massive financial commitment by Toronto for the veteran superstar.

As fellow stars like Stephen Curry weigh in on the league’s sanctions against the Los Angeles Clippers, anticipation builds over how the situation will develop, especially with potential legal issues looming in the background as Leonard takes the floor for Toronto.

Leonard’s past contract and highlights with the Raptors

Leonard’s original tenure with the Raptors remains one of the most iconic single-season runs in NBA history, defined by load-management precision, dominant play, and the franchise’s first NBA title.

At the time, Leonard was in the final guaranteed season of a five-year, $94.3 million contract originally signed with San Antonio in 2015, earning $23.1 million during his 2018–19 championship campaign. The deal featured a player option for the 2019–20 season.

Following the championship run, Leonard opted out of his $21.3 million option in July 2019 to test unrestricted free agency, ultimately choosing to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers.

“I wasn’t surprised [by the punishment]… at the end of the day, Adam Silver had a job to do, and I think the punishment makes sense, and we all move forward,” Curry said in an interview with CNBC.

As the Clippers continue to challenge the league over the sanctions, all eyes remain on how the situation unfolds, especially with team owner Steve Ballmer entangled in ongoing legal matters and the potential for further scrutiny into the franchise’s cap management.

Meanwhile, after Leonard broke his silence on the scandal, anticipation is building among Toronto Raptors fans ahead of his return to the city, where he is set to lead a squad featuring emerging talent Scottie Pippen Jr.

Leonard’s trade to Rockets happened with plenty of things going on

Despite previous trade rumors surrounding Leonard and the Houston Rockets—which reportedly stalled amid the legal headwinds surrounding Ballmer—the veteran star is set to rejoin the fold.

Additionally, reports indicate the Raptors are interested in extending Leonard’s tenure, signaling a desire to build a competitive project around Leonard and Pippen to propel Toronto back into Eastern Conference playoff contention.

Curry’s future reportedly decided

While the Warriors icon refrained from discussing his long-term plans publicly, a report from The Athletic‘s Marcus Thompson II shed light on Curry’s future in Golden State.

“Steph is re-signing. Steph isn’t going anywhere. He never was… He wants to play for the same team his whole career… He’d rather go down not winning with his guys than going somewhere else and winning,” Thompson II wrote.

“When you watch him deliver on nights like this, or recall what he did at the World Cup, his inclusion in the Ballon d’Or discussion isn’t luck,” Beckham told Apple TV following Miami’s 2-0 victory. “He was the best player in this tournament at 39 years old. The impact he had on the World Cup was extraordinary, nobody else is performing at this level at his age. In my opinion, he deserves to win it.“

Beyond the trophy itself, Messi reached a monumental milestone during the match, tallying his 100th career goal for Inter Miami while adding another record to his MLS resume. The performance offered yet another reminder that for the timeless superstar, age remains secondary to generational talent.

While debate continues over parallel achievements by Cristiano Ronaldo with Al Nassr, the larger narrative centers on appreciation. With both legends nearing the sunset of their legendary careers, these historic moments deserve to be savored before the era officially draws to a close.

Casemiro’s thoughts on Messi winning Ballon d’Or

Once fiercest rivals in El Clasico—with Messi representing Barcelona and Casemiro anchoring Real Madrid—the Brazilian midfielder now shares the pitch with the maestro, gaining a firsthand perspective on his sustained greatness.

“We just have to enjoy him and be grateful for what he does on the field. Having him as a teammate makes everything easier,” Casemiro said in his postmatch interview on Apple TV. “I can’t decide who wins the Ballon d’Or, but as his teammate, I certainly hope he takes it. Above all, we just need to appreciate what he’s doing.”

As the race for football’s top individual honor takes shape, Messi re-enters an elite field alongside contenders like Lamine Yamal, while iconic names like Ronaldo were notably left off this year’s shortlist.

Messi became the fastest player in MLS history to reach 100 goals for a single club across all competitions. Looking at the bigger picture, his output remains staggering—adding 55 assists in 144 total appearances as he continues to elevate his legacy in North America.

Having secured their first piece of silverware of the 2026 campaign, Messi and Inter Miami remain in pursuit of additional hardware this season. Expectations remain sky-high for the captain, especially following the announcement that he has been called up for Argentina’s international farewell tour.

Hitting the century mark in South Florida naturally sparked comparisons to Cristiano Ronaldo’s scoring exploits with Al Nassr, as fans immediately began debating the two legends’ goal tallies following Messi’s latest milestone.

Messi’s records in the MLS

Since arriving at Inter Miami in the summer of 2023, Lionel Messi has shattered a series of league-wide and franchise records across Major League Soccer. Here is a look at his defining MLS marks:

• Most goal contributions in a single game (6): On May 4, 2024, against the New York Red Bulls, Messi recorded an unprecedented six goal contributions (1 goal, 5 assists) in a 6–2 rout.
• Most assists in a single match (5): In that same performance against New York, Messi set the single-game MLS assist record by setting up five goals.
• Most consecutive games with multiple goal contributions (5): Became the first player in MLS history to register multiple goals or assists in five straight regular-season matches (2024).
• Fastest player to 25 goal contributions: Needed just 12 regular-season appearances to reach 25 goal contributions (goals + assists), shattering the previous mark held by Carlos Vela (16 games).

Messi and his franchise records

Beyond his league-wide feats, Messi has firmly established himself as the foundational icon of Inter Miami CF. Here is the breakdown of his franchise records with the Herons:

• All-time leading goalscorer: The first player in club history to hit 100 goals across all official competitions.
• All-time assist leader: Holds the franchise record with 55+ assists across all competitions.
• Single-season points record: Spearheaded Inter Miami’s 2024 Supporters’ Shield triumph with a league-record 74 regular-season points.
• Most trophies with club: The most decorated player in franchise history, captaining Miami to the 2023 Leagues Cup, 2024 Supporters’ Shield, 2025 MLS Cup and 2026 Campeones Cup.

Messi will captain Inter Miami against Cruz Azul today. A victory would give the Argentine superstar his fifth trophy with the Herons, though it represents a unique opportunity to claim non-official silverware on US soil.

With kickoff times and broadcast details now locked in for US viewers, both fanbases are eagerly awaiting to see which club will add another piece of hardware to its trophy case.

Messi has consistently tormented Liga MX opposition throughout his time in North America. Furthermore, he sits on the brink of another historic milestone, closing in on his 100th career goal for Inter Miami since arriving in the summer of 2023.

Lineups for Inter Miami and Cruz Azul

While Inter Miami feature a star-studded attack headlined by Messi and Luis Suarez, Cruz Azul boast plenty of firepower of their own heading into the Campeones Cup.

Here is how both clubs will line up for today’s match, where a win, tie or loss will have different implications for Inter Miami or Cruz Azul.

Inter Miami’s lineup: Dayne St. Clair; Facundo Mura, Casemiro, Maximiliano Falcon, Fricio Caicedo; Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright, Matias Galarza; Lionel Messi, German Berterame, Luis Suarez.

Cruz Azul’s lineup: Kevin Mier, Willer Ditta, Jesus Orozco Chiquete, Erik Lira, Carlos Rotondi, Jeremy Marquez, Amaury Garcia, Carlos Rodriguez, Jose Paradela, Nicolas Ibanez, Agustin Palavecino.

Judge was replaced by a pinch hitter in the sixth inning of today’s game in Minnesota with the Yankees trailing 2-0. According to New York Daily News‘ Gary Phillips, Judge exited the contest due to right lower-body tightness.

Uncertainty now hangs over the Bronx as the Yankees prepare for a deep October run. Judge serves as the engine of the offense, and New York’s championship aspirations ultimately rest on the health of their captain.

Despite the encouraging news of Clarke Schmidt returning to the New York Yankees’ rotation, losing Judge could severely compromise the team’s offensive firepower right as the postseason approaches.

Judge’s stats prior to his exit

Judge was pulled from the lineup in the sixth inning. Before his early exit, the slugger had been working his way back to peak form following his recent stint on the Injured List.

Here is how his stat line looked before leaving the game:

• At-Bats (AB): 2
• Hits (H): 0
• Strikeouts (SO): 2 (both against Twins starter Zebby Matthews)

Who pinch-hit for Judge?

Manager Aaron Boone called on Heliot Ramos to pinch-hit for Judge to keep the inning alive. Ramos delivered by drawing a walk, allowing the Yankees to extend their turn at the plate.

NY Yankees hope Aaron Judge’s injury isn’t serious

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, there’s initial hope that Judge doesn’t have anything “too serious” and that his exit from the game may have to do with a precautionary move.