As the MLB postseason races dwindle down to their final few days, let's take a look at some of the latest MLB rumors, news and notes from around the league.
Chicago Cubs support Seiya Suzuki despite game-changing lapse
The misplayed ball by Seiya Suzuki that gave the Atlanta Braves the lead and eventual win on Tuesday night at Truist Park is likely still haunting the thoughts of Chicago Cubs fans. With the Cubs locked in a battle for the final postseason spot, Suzuki's misplay loomed large in the outcome of Tuesday's game and could make a big difference in Chicago's postseason fate.
While many may point the finger of blame at Suzuki for the loss, it's very evident that his teammates are supporting him through one of the toughest moments of the season.
Plenty of Cubs spoke out in support of Suzuki after the game, including pitcher Drew Smyly, who was on the mound when the game-altering ball was hit into the outfield.
"Seiya's been one of the best hitters in the league this whole month," Smyly told reporters after the game. "He's been carrying the team. We all support him and have his back."
Suzuki acknowledged the support of his teammates while also making it clear he knows how big the play was for his team and their postseason chances.
"I'm happy for those comments," Suzuki said via his interpreter, Toy Matsushita. "But obviously these games are really, really important for us. And the fact that we dropped it is not the best result that we want right now at this point in the season."
San Diego Padres could change in big ways this offseason
Absolutely, it's been a disappointing season in San Diego as the Padres and their high payroll will almost certainly miss the postseason (they are technically still alive in the postseason chase heading into Wednesday's action, but their elimination number is one). Closing the book on 2023 means that the Padres are already looking ahead to what might happen in 2024.
Among the changes likely coming for the Padres, according to MLB insider Bob Nightengale in his weekly USA Today column, is the very real possibility that star pitchers Blake Snell and Josh Hader will not be a part of San Diego's roster next season. Both are free agents and are expected to fetch high price tags this offseason.
Those high dollar amounts that were a fixture of San Diego will not be replicated next season as the Padres will reportedly try to keep their player salary commitments to around $200 million in 2024. San Diego's Opening Day payroll this season was just under $249 million, so there will need to be some cuts made in order for the Padres to hit that mark.
Snell and Hader likely won't be the only faces to depart this offseason as the winds of change, both in terms of roster makeup and spending philosophy, are blowing in San Diego.
Shohei Ohtani rumors: Will it come down to a New York vs. Los Angeles battle?
With Ohtani's season done and his American League MVP resume submitted, plenty of talk and rumors are already popping up regarding where the superstar will land in free agency.
Sure, the Los Angeles Angels are expected to bid for Ohtani's services, but it's expected by many that Ohtani will wear a different uniform in 2024. Those expecting that include MLB insider Ken Rosenthal.
On the most recent Foul Territory podcast, Rosenthal said he believes it could be a battle between the East Coast and West Coast for Ohtani's services ... with a surprise in the Midwest sprinkled in as well.
"The Dodgers have been the favorite for a long time, or at least a team we thought would definitely be in the mix. I cannot rule out the Mets. I cannot see Steve Cohen simply passing on Shohei Ohtani," Rosenthal said. "And I would also include the Giants, the Rangers — yes, the Rangers — and the Mariners as at least possibilities. I still think it comes down to L.A. versus New York — Dodgers versus the Mets.
"The Yankees? I don't see them doing this."
Many believe the Dodgers will go all in to land Ohtani. With the Dodgers on their way to yet another 100-win season, Ohtani would certainly have the winning feeling he longs to have if he does indeed call Chavez Ravine home next season and beyond.
