MLB rumors: Juan Soto to start key step in free agency timeline, Dodgers talk extension with playoff star

The San Diego Padres are down to four managerial finalists: Albert Pujols, pitching coach Ruben Niebla, and Nick Hundley, with an unknown fourth candidate. All three are first-time MLB manager candidates, with Niebla praised for his pitching expertise, while Pujols and Hundley bring extensive playing backgrounds but lack coaching experience in the majors. Want More Context? 🔎

The White Sox announced that first baseman Tim Elko underwent surgery for a torn right ACL, with an expected recovery time of eight months, sidelining him for at least half of the 2026 season. This marks Elko's second ACL tear, having previously suffered the same injury in college; he struggled in his MLB debut with a .134 average and had been vying for a role following Andrew Vaughn's trade. Want More Context? 🔎

The Los Angeles Dodgers are vying for back-to-back World Series titles but face challenges as the Toronto Blue Jays equalize the series after a strong Game 4 victory. Mookie Betts, despite a solid wild-card round, has struggled significantly in the postseason, raising concerns as the team relies heavily on other stars like Shohei Ohtani to secure victories. Want More Context? 🔎