The Toronto Blue Jays are in advanced discussions with free agent relief pitcher Jeff Hoffman, aiming for a potential multi-year contract. Hoffman's impressive performance last season earned him his first All-Star nod, showcasing his capabilities as a reliable arm in the bullpen. Over two seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, he recorded an 8-5 record, a 2.28 ERA, and 12.0 strikeouts per nine innings, making him a coveted target in free agency.

Originally drafted by the Blue Jays in 2014, Hoffman was traded to the Colorado Rockies the following year. After a rocky stint as a starter, he has found success in relief roles. With Toronto's bullpen ranked last in the American League last season, the addition of Hoffman could bolster their pitching staff significantly.

Ben Lively, a key player for the Cleveland Guardians this season, was surprisingly excluded from the roster for the AL Division Series against the Detroit Tigers. Despite a solid record of 13-10 and a 3.81 ERA in 29 starts, Lively's absence raises questions about the team's pitching strategy.

The Guardians, who faced significant injuries to their rotation, relied on Lively's consistent performance earlier in the season. With the roster finalized just hours before Game 1, the decision reflects manager Stephen Vogt's focus on a strong bullpen, which has been the best in MLB this year.

The Cleveland Guardians are finalizing their roster for Game 1 of the ALDS against the Detroit Tigers, making some tough decisions in the process. Notable exclusions include Nick Sandlin, Pedro Avila, Angel Martinez, and Ben Lively, while Tyler Freeman and Alex Cobb have been added back.

Manager Stephen Vogt emphasized the importance of maximizing matchups, opting for versatility among players. With the Tigers' left-handed pitching, Freeman's right-handed bat could be crucial. The Guardians are strategically prioritizing matchups for both offense and defense as the series unfolds.

Ben Lively, a key player for the Cleveland Guardians, was surprisingly omitted from the roster for the AL Division Series against the Detroit Tigers. Despite a strong season with a record of 13-10 and a 3.81 ERA, Lively's absence highlights the tough decisions faced by manager Stephen Vogt.

The Guardians, who dealt with significant injuries to their pitching staff, opted for a roster emphasizing depth and versatility, leading to the exclusion of notable contributors like Nick Sandlin and Pedro Avila.

Ben Lively, a key player for the Cleveland Guardians this season, was surprisingly omitted from the roster for the AL Division Series against the Detroit Tigers. Despite a solid record of 13-10 and a 3.81 ERA, Lively's absence highlights the challenges faced by the Guardians, particularly after losing Shane Bieber to injury.

Manager Stephen Vogt opted for a 12-pitcher roster, leaving out notable contributors like Nick Sandlin and Pedro Avila. Alex Cobb, despite injury concerns, remains a candidate for Game 3.