The Reds showed they are a different team this time around in the playoffs. They can still dare to dream, even if the dreams don’t come out exactly as concocted.
Thinking of late son, Neshek delivers for A’s
In his first appearance since the death of his son, Gehrig John, A’s reliever Pat Neshek pitched two-thirds of an inning in Oakland’s Game 1 loss to the Tigers in the ALDS. The A’s took the field on Saturday with patches on their right sleeves that bore Gehrig’s initials: GJN.
Giants can’t capitalize on loss of Reds ace
On a night that began with a fortunate break in their favor, the Giants weren’t able to take advantage of the few opportunities that followed in the game.
Nix added, Nova subtracted on ALDS roster
The Yankees finalized their roster for the American League Division Series against the Orioles on Sunday morning, naming utility man Jayson Nix, infielder Eduardo Nunez and right-hander Derek Lowe among their choices.
Cain’s impressive postseason stretch halted
A two-run home run by Brandon Phillips and a solo shot by Reds teammate Jay Bruce buried Giants pitcher Matt Cain, who before Saturday hadn’t experienced this kind of playoff duress.
Latos rescues Reds in relief after Cueto’s injury
During his 20-pitch bullpen session earlier Saturday, Mat Latos had no reason to think this day at the ballpark was going to be different from any other when he’s not scheduled to pitch.
Phillips brings bat, flash into Game 1 spotlight
The postseason spotlight was quick to find Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips on Saturday night, and he was all the willing to bask in it by seizing upon the moment.
What a relief: Reds persevere for Game 1 win
In stunning fashion, the Reds prevented the Giants from capitalizing on their misfortune and got home runs from Brandon Phillips — who had three hits and three RBIs in a big night — and Jay Bruce. Then they held on to steal a 5-2 win in front of 43,492 vibrant fans and a 1-0 lead in the NLDS.
Hard to say the Yanks are a Goliath vs. O’s
The New York Yankees and the Baltimore Orioles were 9-9 in the 2012 regular season. It is difficult to see from those numbers which team is the obvious Goliath, which is the natural David.
Indians name Francona as next manager
On Saturday, the Indians officially announced that Terry Francona will be named Cleveland’s 42nd manager, with a formal press conference scheduled for Monday.
Verlander’s 11 K’s help Tigers grab ALDS opener
Justin Verlander allowed a leadoff homer but went on to strike out 11 over seven innings as the Tigers secured a 3-1 win over the A’s in Game 1 of their American League Division Series on Saturday night at Comerica Park. Alex Avila homered.
Porcello part of seven-man bullpen on ALDS roster
The Tigers set their roster for the ALDS on Saturday morning, keeping Rick Porcello in a seven-man bullpen as a long reliever.
Anderson included on A’s ALDS roster
The A’s on Saturday morning released their American League Division Series roster, which notably includes starter Brett Anderson, a decision that reflects confidence in the team’s belief that the lefty will indeed pitch in the series.
MLB Notebook: Young Machado makes his mark
Manny Machado (20 years, 91 days) on Friday became the second-youngest starting third baseman in a winner-take-all postseason game and the youngest player in O’s/Browns history with a postseason hit.
ALDS position-by-position: Orioles-Yankees
The Yankees and Orioles will meet in the ALDS starting starting Sunday at 6 p.m. ET on TBS. Here’s a look at the position-by-position breakdown.
Orioles have three arms in play for Game 1 start
The Orioles, who boarded a plane back to Baltimore following Friday’s win, are expected to announce their Game 1 starter at Saturday’s workout.
Wild Card Friday sets stage for unique postseason
Never before had baseball’s postseason put on a Wild Card Friday, and oh, it was wild, all right.