Hot stove season is here.

The 2025 MLB season has ended after a thrilling conclusion, as the Los Angeles Dodgers successfully defended their crown by beating the Toronto Blue Jays for the 2025 World Series championship. Now, the chase for the 2026 title is on.

Free agency will be fully underway soon now that the Fall Classic has ended. Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber, coming off a 56-homer campaign, is the headliner of this offseason’s free agent class, but he’s far from the only big name set to hit the open market.

Houston Astros pitcher Framber Valdez, Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker and Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette are also looking for new deals. The free agent class could also be boosted by players whose options aren’t picked up.

So, from the top players who could be available to how the qualifying offer works and more, here’s everything you need to know about MLB free agency:

When does MLB free agency start?

Players scheduled to hit free agency officially became free agents the day after the World Series ended. At that time, teams were able to re-sign their departing free agents.

But players can’t sign with a new club until 5 p.m. ET on the fifth day after the World Series ends.

When is the MLB option deadline?

The exercising of a player, club or mutual option must occur within five days following the conclusion of the World Series.

What is a qualifying offer in MLB?

Teams have five days after the World Series to extend qualifying offers to their departing free agents. A team can only extend a qualifying offer to a player who hasn’t received one before and spent the entire 2025 season on its roster.

The qualifying offer is a one-year deal with a value equal to the mean salary of MLB’s 125 highest-paid players, and a player has until 4 p.m. ET on Nov. 18 to accept it.

Should a player reject the qualifying offer and then sign with a new club in free agency, the team who lost the free agent will receive a compensatory draft pick. A club that signs a rival player who rejected a qualifying offer is subject to the loss of at least one draft pick.

How much is the MLB qualifying offer worth?

This year’s qualifying offer is worth $22.025 million.

Who are the top 2026 MLB free agents?

Here’s a look at the top players who could hit free agency (listed alphabetically by last name, all contract details via Spotrac):

Ozzie Albies, 2B, Atlanta Braves

• Age: 28
• 2025 stats: 157 games, .240/.306/.365 slash line, 16 HR, 74 RBI, 14 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $5 million
• Status: Club option for 1 year, $7 million with $4 million buyout (followed by $7 million club option in 2027)

Pete Alonso, 1B, New York Mets

• Age: 30 (turns 31 in December)
• 2025 stats: 162 games, .272/.347/.524 slash line, 38 HR, 126 RBI, 1 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $27 million
• Status: Free agent (declined player option for 1 year, $24 million)

Luis Arráez, 2B/1B, San Diego Padres

• Age: 28
• 2025 stats: 154 games, .292/.327/.392 slash line, 8 HR, 61 RBI, 11 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $14 million
• Status: Free agent

Harrison Bader, OF, Philadelphia Phillies

• Age: 31
• 2025 stats: 146 games, .277/.347/.449 slash line, 17 HR, 54 RBI, 11 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $6.25 million
• Status: Mutual option for 1 year, $10 million with $3 million buyout

Chris Bassit, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays

• Age: 36
• 2025 stats: 31 starts (32 appearances), 170.1 IP, 3.96 ERA, 1.327 WHIP, 166 SO, 52 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $21 million 
• Status: Free agent

Josh Bell, 1B, Washington Nationals

• Age: 33
• 2025 stats: 140 games, .239/.326/.421 slash line, 22 HR, 63 RBI, 0 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $6 million
• Status: Free agent

Cody Bellinger, OF, New York Yankees

• Age: 30
• 2025 stats: 152 games, .272/.334/.480 slash line, 29 HR, 98 RBI, 13 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $26.66 million
• Status: Free agent (declined player option for 1 year, $25 million)

Bo Bichette, SS, Toronto Blue Jays

• Age: 27
• 2025 stats: 139 games, .311/.357/.483 slash line, 18 HR, 94 RBI, 4 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $11.2 million
• Status: Free agent

Shane Bieber, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays

• Age: 30
• 2025 stats: 7 starts, 40.1 IP, 3.57 ERA, 1.017 WHIP, 37 SO, 7 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $13 million
• Status: Player option for 1 year, $16 million with $4 million buyout

Alex Bregman, 3B, Boston Red Sox

• Age: 31
• 2025 stats: 114 games, .273/.360/.462 slash line, 18 HR, 62 RBI, 1 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $40 million
• Status: Free agent (declined player option for 2 years, $80 million)

Dylan Cease, RHP, San Diego Padres

• Age: 29 (turns 30 in December)
• 2025 stats: 32 starts, 168 IP, 4.55 ERA, 1.327 WHIP, 215 SO, 71 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $13.75 million
• Status: Free agent

Edwin Díaz, RHP, New York Mets

• Age: 31
• 2025 stats: 62 appearances, 66.1 IP, 1.63 ERA, 0.874 WHIP, 98 SO, 21 BB, 28-for-31 in save chances
• Previous average annual salary: $20.4 million
• Status: Free agent (declined player option for 2 years, $37 million, followed by $17.25 million club option in 2028 with $1 million buyout)

Pete Fairbanks, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays

• Age: 31 (turns 32 in December)
• 2025 stats: 61 appearances, 60.1 IP, 2.83 ERA, 1.044 WHIP, 59 SO, 18 BB, 27-for-32 in save chances
• Previous average annual salary: $4 million
• Status: Club option for 1 year, $12.5 million with $1 million buyout

Jack Flaherty, RHP, Detroit Tigers

• Age: 30
• 2025 stats: 31 starts, 161 IP, 4.64 ERA, 1.280 WHIP, 188 SO, 59 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $17.5 million
• Status: Player option for 1 year, $20 million

Zac Gallen, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks

• Age: 30
• 2025 stats: 33 starts, 192 IP, 4.83 ERA, 1.260 WHIP, 175 SO, 66 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $13.8 million
• Status: Free agent

Lucas Giolito, RHP, Boston Red Sox

• Age: 31
• 2025 stats: 26 starts, 145 IP, 3.41 ERA, 1.290 WHIP, 121 SO, 56 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $19.25 million
• Status: Free agent (Declined mutual option for 1 year, $19 million with $1.5 million buyout)

Trent Grisham, OF, New York Yankees

• Age: 28 (turns 29 in November)
• 2025 stats: 143 games, .235/.348/.464 slash line, 34 HR, 74 RBI, 3 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $5 million
• Status: Free agent

Lourdes Gurriel Jr., OF, Arizona Diamondbacks

• Age: 32
• 2025 stats: 129 games, .248/.295/.418 slash line, 19 HR, 80 RBI, 10 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $14 million
• Status: Exercised player option for 1 year, $13 million (followed by $14 million club option in 2027 with $5 million buyout)

Ryan Helsley, RHP, New York Mets

• Age: 31
• 2025 stats: 58 appearances, 56 IP, 4.50 ERA, 1.536 WHIP, 63 SO, 25 BB, 21-for-30 in save chances
• Previous average annual salary: $8.2 million
• Status: Free agent

Rhys Hoskins, 1B, Milwaukee Brewers

• Age: 32
• 2025 stats: 90 games, .237/.332/.416 slash line, 12 HR, 43 RBI, 2 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $17 million
• Status: Mutual option for 1 year, $18 million with $4 million buyouy

Shota Imanaga, LHP, Chicago Cubs

• Age: 32
• 2025 stats: 25 starts, 144.2 IP, 3.73 ERA, 0.988 WHIP, 117 SO, 26 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $13.25 million
• Status: Club option for 3 years, $57 million (if declined, Imanaga receives player option for 1 year, $15 million)

Kenley Jansen, RHP, Los Angeles Angels

• Age: 38
• 2025 stats: 62 appearances, 59 IP, 2.59 ERA, 0.949 WHIP, 57 SO, 19 BB, 29-for-30 in save chances
• Previous average annual salary: $10 million
• Status: Free agent

Merrill Kelly, RHP, Texas Rangers

• Age: 37
• 2025 stats: 32 starts, 184 IP, 3.52 ERA, 1.114 WHIP, 167 SO, 48 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $9 million
• Status: Free agent

Michael King, RHP, San Diego Padres

• Age: 30
• 2025 stats: 15 starts, 73.1 IP, 3.44 ERA, 1.200 WHIP, 76 SO, 26 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $7.75 million
• Status: Mutual option for 1 year, $15 million with $3.75 million buyout

Ramón Laureano, OF, San Diego Padres

• Age: 31
• 2025 stats: 132 games, .281/.342/.512 slash line, 24 HR, 76 RBI, 7 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $4 million
• Status: Club option for 1 year, $6.5 million

Brandon Lowe, 2B/OF, Tampa Bay Rays

• Age: 31
• 2025 stats: 134 games, .256/.307/.477 slash line, 31 HR, 83 RBI, 3 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $4 million
• Status: Club option for 1 year, $11.5 million with $1 million buyout

Nick Martinez, RHP, Cincinnati Reds

• Age: 35
• 2025 stats: 40 appearances (26 starts), 165.2 IP, 4.45 ERA, 1.207 WHIP, 116 SO, 42 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $21.05 million
• Status: Free agent

Yoan Moncada, 3B, Los Angeles Angels

• Age: 30
• 2025 stats: 84 games, .234/.336/.448 slash line, 12 HR, 35 RBI, 0 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $14 million
• Status: Free agent

Max Muncy, 3B, Los Angeles Dodgers

• Age: 35
• 2025 stats: 100 games, .243/.376/.470 slash line, 19 HR, 67 RBI, 4 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $12 million
• Status: Club option for 1 year, $10 million

Andrés Muñoz, RHP, Seattle Mariners

• Age: 26
• 2025 stats: 64 games, 62.1 IP, 1.73 ERA, 1.027 WHIP, 83 SO, 28 BB, 38-for-45 in save chances
• Previous average annual salary: $1.87 million
• Status: Club option for 1 year, $7 million (followed by club options for $8 million in 2027 and for $10 million in 2028)

Josh Naylor, 1B, Seattle Mariners

• Age: 28
• 2025 stats: 147 games, .295/.353/.462 slash line, 20 HR, 92 RBI, 30 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $14.2 million
• Status: Free agent

Ryan O’Hearn, 1B/OF, San Diego Padres

• Age: 32
• 2025 stats: 144 games, .281/.366/.437 slash line, 17 HR, 63 RBI, 3 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $3.5 million
• Status: Free agent

Marcell Ozuna, DH, Atlanta Braves

• Age: 34 (turns 35 in November)
• 2025 stats: 145 games, .232/.355/.400 slash line, 21 HR, 68 RBI, 0 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $16.25 million
• Status: Free agent

Emilio Pagán, RHP, Cincinnati Reds

• Age: 34
• 2025 stats: 70 appearances, 68.2 IP, 2.88 ERA, 0.917 WHIP, 81 SO, 22 BB, 32-for-38 in save chances
• Previous average annual salary: $8 million
• Status: Free agent

Freddy Peralta, RHP, Milwaukee Brewers

• Age: 29
• 2025 stats: 33 starts, 176.2 IP, 2.70 ERA, 1.075 WHIP, 204 SO, 66 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $3.1 million
• Status: Club option for 1 year, $8 million

Salvador Perez, C, Kansas City Royals

• Age: 35
• 2025 stats: 155 games, .236/.284/.446 slash line, 30 HR, 100 RBI, 0 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $20.5 million
• Status: Club option for 1 year, $13.5 million with $2 million buyout

Jorge Polanco, INF, Seattle Mariners

• Age: 32
• 2025 stats: 138 games, .265/.326/.495 slash line, 26 HR, 78 RBI, 6 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $7.75 million
• Status: Player option for 1 year, $8 million

Jose Quintana, LHP, Milwaukee Brewers

• Age: 36
• 2025 stats: 24 starts, 131.2 IP, 3.96 ERA, 1.291 WHIP, 89 SO, 50 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $4 million
• Status: Mutual option for 1 year, $15 million with $2 million buyout

J.T. Realmuto, C, Philadelphia Phillies

• Age: 34
• 2025 stats: 134 games, .257/.315/.384 slash line, 12 HR, 52 RBI, 8 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $23.1 million
• Status: Free agent

Luis Robert Jr., OF, Chicago White Sox

• Age: 28
• 2025 stats: 110 games, .223/.297/.364 slash line, 14 HR, 53 RBI, 33 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $8.33 million
• Status: Club option for 1 year, $20 million with $2 million buyout (followed by $20 million club option in 2027 with $2 million buyout)

Chris Sale, LHP, Atlanta Braves

• Age: 36
• 2025 stats: 20 starts (21 appearances), 125.2 IP, 2.58 ERA, 1.066 WHIP, 165 SO, 32 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $19 million
• Status: Club option for 1 year, $18 million

Max Scherzer, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays

• Age: 41
• 2025 stats: 17 starts, 85 IP, 5.19 ERA, 1.294 WHIP, 82 SO, 23 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $15.5 million
• Status: Free agent

Kyle Schwarber, DH, Philadelphia Phillies

• Age: 32
• 2025 stats: 162 games, .240/.365/.563 slash line, 56 HR, 132 RBI, 10 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $19.75 million
• Status: Free agent

Trevor Story, SS, Boston Red Sox

• Age: 32 (turns 33 in November)
• 2025 stats: 157 games, .263/.308/.433 slash line, 25 HR, 96 RBI, 31 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $23.33 million
• Status: Player option for 2 years, $50 million (followed by $25 million club option in 2028 with $5 million buyout)

Eugenio Suárez, 3B, Seattle Mariners

• Age: 34
• 2025 stats: 159 games, .228/.298/.526 slash line, 49 HR, 118 RBI, 4 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $9.42 million
• Status: Free agent

Ranger Suárez, LHP, Philadelphia Phillies

• Age: 30
• 2025 stats: 26 starts, 157.1 IP, 3.20 ERA, 1.220 WHIP, 151 SO, 38 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $11.3 million
• Status: Free agent

Robert Suarez, RHP, San Diego Padres

• Age: 34
• 2025 stats: 70 appearances, 69.2 IP, 2.97 ERA, 0.904 WHIP, 75 SO, 16 BB, 40-for-45 in save chances
• Previous average annual salary: $9.2 million
• Status: Free agent (declined player option for 2 years, $16 million)

Gleyber Torres, 2B/SS, Detroit Tigers

• Age: 28 (turns 29 in December)
• 2025 stats: 145 games, .256/.358/.387 slash line, 16 HR, 74 RBI, 4 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $15 million
• Status: Free agent

Kyle Tucker, OF, Chicago Cubs

• Age: 28
• 2025 stats: 136 games, .266/.377/.464 slash line, 22 HR, 73 RBI, 25 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $16.7 million
• Status: Free agent

Framber Valdez, LHP, Houston Astros

• Age: 31 (turns 32 in November)
• 2025 stats: 31 starts, 192 IP, 3.66 ERA, 1.245 WHIP, 187 SO, 68 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $18.8 million
• Status: Free agent

Justin Verlander, RHP, San Francisco Giants

• Age: 42
• 2025 stats: 29 starts, 152 IP, 3.85 ERA, 1.362 WHIP, 137 SO, 52 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $15 million
• Status: Free agent

Devin Williams, RHP, New York Yankees

• Age: 31
• 2025 stats: 67 games, 62 IP, 4.79 ERA, 1.129 WHIP, 90 SO, 25 BB, 18-for-22 in save chances
• Previous average annual salary: $7.25 million
• Status: Free agent

Brandon Woodruff, RHP, Milwaukee Brewers

• Age: 32
• 2025 stats: 12 starts, 64.2 IP, 3.20 ERA, 0.912 WHIP, 83 SO, 14 BB
• Previous average annual salary: $8.75 million
• Status: Mutual option for 1 year, $20 million with $10 million buyout

Mike Yastrzemski, OF, Kansas City Royals

• Age: 35
• 2025 stats: 146 games, .233/.333/.403 slash line, 17 HR, 46 RBI, 7 SB
• Previous average annual salary: $9.25 million
• Status: Free agent

Editor’s note: The original version of this story was published on Oct. 27.

Sandy Brondello is set to become the first coach of the Toronto Tempo, a person familiar with the hire told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because no official announcement has been made. Brondello’s contract with the New York Liberty wasn’t renewed after the season after leading the team to its first WNBA championship in 2024. The Liberty were beset injuries this season and knocked out in the first round of the playoffs.

Now Brondello will be in charge of the expansion Tempo, who will begin play next year. The veteran coach was also up for the Dallas Wings’ open head coach position. The Seattle Storm also have an opening for a head coach.

The news was first reported by the website The Next.

Brondello went 107-53 in four seasons with New York, giving her the most wins in franchise history. The Liberty got off to a franchise-best start, winning nine straight games, only to stumble over the next few months as injuries took their toll.

Before coming to New York, Brondello led the Phoenix Mercury to a championship in her eight seasons with that team. She was hired before the 2022 season by the Liberty after she helped the Mercury reach the WNBA Finals in 2021.

New York lost in the finals to Las Vegas in 2023 before winning the championship last year in a decisive Game 5 overtime victory over Minnesota.

Police arrested a man at Atlanta’s bustling airport on Monday after getting a tip from his family that he was planning to shoot up the place, and found an assault rifle and ammunition in his truck outside, the city’s police chief said.

Billy Joe Cagle, of Cartersville, Georgia, had described his plan to shoot up the world’s busiest airport on a social media livestream, Chief Darin Schierbaum said during a news conference.

“The Cartersville Police Department was alerted by the family of Mr. Cagle that he was streaming on social media that he was headed to the Atlanta airport, in their words, to ‘shoot it up,’ and the family stated that he was in possession of an assault rifle,” Schierbaum said, describing Cagle as a “convicted felon.”

Cagle, 49, arrived at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in a Chevrolet pickup truck that was parked right outside the doors to the airport terminal. When police went to the vehicle, they found an AR-15 with 27 rounds of ammunition, Schierbaum said.

“We’re here today briefing you on a success and not a tragedy because a family saw something and said something,” the chief said.

Cartersville police Capt. Greg Sparacio, whose department received the initial tip from family members, said Cagle “had the intention to inflict harm to as many people as he could.”

During the news conference, police showed surveillance video that shows Cagle arriving at the airport and body-camera video of his arrest.

A Chevrolet flatbed pickup truck is seen arriving curbside at the airport terminal around 9:30 a.m. and then a man police identified as Cagle is seen entering the airport a few minutes later. He walks over to the TSA security checkpoint and had “high interest in that area,” Schierbaum said.

Body-camera footage shows Atlanta police officers, who had a photo of Cagle provided by his family on their phones, approach him and start asking him questions before taking him into custody. As they take him to the ground and put handcuffs on him, Cagle can be heard yelling.

Cagle has been charged with making terroristic threats, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and possession of a firearm by a felon, Schierbaum said.

Cagle was booked into the Clayton County Detention Facility on Monday evening, according to online jail records. Attempts to reach his family and co-workers through multiple phone numbers and emails were unsuccessful. It wasn’t immediately clear whether he had a lawyer who could comment on the charges.

Atlanta police will work with federal authorities to determine how he obtained the gun, “which he was not able to legally possess,” Schierbaum said.

Mayor Andre Dickens said “we’re thankful to God” that a tragedy was averted.

“We’re thankful to God and to good information, and good intel, and good people for this crisis being averted,” the mayor said.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a post on the social platform X, “I am thankful this individual was taken into custody by law enforcement before harming anyone.”

The American and National League pennants are on the line.

The 2025 MLB playoffs have moved to the Championship Series, where the final four clubs standing will battle for league pennants and trips to the World Series.

In the AL, the No. 1 Toronto Blue Jays locked up the first spot in the ALCS with their four-game victory over the No. 4 New York Yankees. Their opponent is the No. 2 Seattle Mariners, who outlasted the Detroit Tigers in a thrilling, 15-inning Game 5 of the ALDS.

In the NL, the defending champion No. 3 Los Angeles Dodgers clinched their series against the No. 2 Philadelphia Phillies thanks to a walk-off error in Game 4. They will clash with the No. 1 Milwaukee Brewers after the Brew Crew topped the No. 4 Chicago Cubs in their win-or-go-home Game 5.

From the format to the schedule and how to watch, here’s what to know about the Championship Series:

What are the 2025 ALCS, NLCS matchups?

The AL-best Blue Jays have home-field advantage over the AL West champion Mariners, while the NL-best Brewers have the home edge over the NL West champion Dodgers.

Here’s a full look at the bracket with both No. 1 teams still alive:

American League

• No. 2 Seattle Mariners vs. No. 1 Toronto Blue Jays

National League

• No. 3 Los Angeles Dodgers vs. No. 1 Milwaukee Brewers

How many games are in the ALCS, NLCS?

Following best-of-three Wild Card Series and best-of-five Division Series, the postseason moves to a best-of-seven format in the Championship Series and World Series. The higher seed hosts Games 1, 2 and, if necessary, 6 and 7.

What is the 2025 ALCS, NLCS schedule?

Here’s a series-by-series look at the Championship Series schedule:

American League Championship Series (Seattle leads series 2-1)

• Game 1: Mariners 3, Blue Jays 1
• Game 2: Mariners 10, Blue Jays 3
• Game 3: Blue Jays 13, Mariners 4
• Game 4: Blue Jays at Mariners, Thursday, Oct. 16, 8:33 p.m. ET/5:33 p.m. PT
• Game 5: Blue Jays at Mariners, Friday, Oct. 17, 6:08 p.m. ET/3:08 p.m. PT
• Game 6 (if necessary): Mariners at Blue Jays, Sunday, Oct. 19, 8:03 p.m. ET/5:03 p.m. PT
• Game 7 (if necessary): Mariners at Blue Jays, Monday, Oct. 20, 8:08 p.m. ET/5:08 p.m. PT

National League Championship Series (Los Angeles leads series 3-0)

• Game 1: Dodgers 2, Brewers 1
• Game 2: Dodgers 5, Brewers 1
• Game 3: Dodgers 3, Brewers 1
• Game 4: Brewers at Dodgers, Friday, Oct. 17, 8:38 p.m. ET/5:38 p.m. PT
• Game 5 (if necessary): Brewers at Dodgers, Saturday, Oct. 18, 8:08 p.m. ET/5:08 p.m. PT
• Game 6 (if necessary): Dodgers at Brewers, Monday, Oct. 20, 5:08 p.m. ET/2:08 p.m. PT
• Game 7 (if necessary): Dodgers at Brewers, Tuesday, Oct. 21, 8:08 p.m. ET/5:08 p.m. PT

What TV channels are the ALDS, NLDS on?

ALCS games will air on FOX and FS1.

TBS will broadcast the NLCS games.

How to stream the ALDS, NLDS live online

The ALCS action can be streamed on FoxSports.com and the Fox Sports app.

NLCS games can be streamed on TBS.com, the TBS app and HBO Max.

The American and National League pennants are on the line.

The 2025 MLB playoffs have moved to the Championship Series, where the final four clubs standing will battle for league pennants and trips to the World Series.

In the AL, the No. 1 Toronto Blue Jays locked up the first spot in the ALCS with their four-game victory over the No. 4 New York Yankees. Their opponent is the No. 2 Seattle Mariners, who outlasted the Detroit Tigers in a thrilling, 15-inning Game 5 of the ALDS.

In the NL, the defending champion No. 3 Los Angeles Dodgers clinched their series against the No. 2 Philadelphia Phillies thanks to a walk-off error in Game 4. They will clash with the No. 1 Milwaukee Brewers after the Brew Crew topped the No. 4 Chicago Cubs in their win-or-go-home Game 5.

From the format to the schedule and how to watch, here’s what to know about the Championship Series:

What are the 2025 ALCS, NLCS matchups?

The AL-best Blue Jays have home-field advantage over the AL West champion Mariners, while the NL-best Brewers have the home edge over the NL West champion Dodgers.

Here’s a full look at the bracket with both No. 1 teams still alive:

American League

• No. 2 Seattle Mariners vs. No. 1 Toronto Blue Jays

National League

• No. 3 Los Angeles Dodgers vs. No. 1 Milwaukee Brewers

How many games are in the ALCS, NLCS?

Following best-of-three Wild Card Series and best-of-five Division Series, the postseason moves to a best-of-seven format in the Championship Series and World Series. The higher seed hosts Games 1, 2 and, if necessary, 6 and 7.

What is the 2025 ALCS, NLCS schedule?

Here’s a series-by-series look at the Championship Series schedule:

American League Championship Series (Seattle leads series 2-1)

• Game 1: Mariners 3, Blue Jays 1
• Game 2: Mariners 10, Blue Jays 3
• Game 3: Blue Jays 13, Mariners 4
• Game 4: Blue Jays at Mariners, Thursday, Oct. 16, 8:33 p.m. ET/5:33 p.m. PT
• Game 5: Blue Jays at Mariners, Friday, Oct. 17, 6:08 p.m. ET/3:08 p.m. PT
• Game 6 (if necessary): Mariners at Blue Jays, Sunday, Oct. 19, 8:03 p.m. ET/5:03 p.m. PT
• Game 7 (if necessary): Mariners at Blue Jays, Monday, Oct. 20, 8:08 p.m. ET/5:08 p.m. PT

National League Championship Series (Los Angeles leads series 3-0)

• Game 1: Dodgers 2, Brewers 1
• Game 2: Dodgers 5, Brewers 1
• Game 3: Dodgers 3, Brewers 1
• Game 4: Brewers at Dodgers, Friday, Oct. 17, 8:38 p.m. ET/5:38 p.m. PT
• Game 5 (if necessary): Brewers at Dodgers, Saturday, Oct. 18, 8:08 p.m. ET/5:08 p.m. PT
• Game 6 (if necessary): Dodgers at Brewers, Monday, Oct. 20, 5:08 p.m. ET/2:08 p.m. PT
• Game 7 (if necessary): Dodgers at Brewers, Tuesday, Oct. 21, 8:08 p.m. ET/5:08 p.m. PT

What TV channels are the ALDS, NLDS on?

ALCS games will air on FOX and FS1.

TBS will broadcast the NLCS games.

How to stream the ALDS, NLDS live online

The ALCS action can be streamed on FoxSports.com and the Fox Sports app.

NLCS games can be streamed on TBS.com, the TBS app and HBO Max.

This blog is no longer being updated.

Follow along for live updates.

Follow along for live updates.

The Federal Aviation Administration was experiencing staffing issues or anticipating shortages at airports and other air traffic control facilities in the United States on Monday night.

Reports of the staffing shortfalls came hours after Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that there has been a slight increase in sick calls since the government shutdown began.

There were no air traffic controllers expected at the tower at Hollywood Burbank Airport in the Los Angeles area for an hours-long stretch Monday night because of staffing issues, a source familiar with the situation said.

The Federal Aviation Administration’s website showed the staffing issue between 4 p.m. and 9:59 p.m. PT (7 pm. Monday to 12:59 a.m. Tuesday ET).

The source told NBC News that some air traffic will be handled by San Diego TRACON at a much-reduced rate — meaning arrival and departure delays are certain.

A spokesperson for Hollywood Burbank Airport, a smaller airport in the Los Angeles area, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday.

Newark Liberty International Airport and Denver International Airport also experienced issues with air traffic control staffing Monday, according to the FAA’s website.

A reason for the staffing problem at Hollywood Burbank was not clear.

Because of the federal government shutdown, air traffic controllers were working without pay Monday.

Duffy earlier said Monday that there has been an increase in sick calls since the government shut down and funding lapsed, but he said the increase was slight.

“So, we’re tracking sick calls, sick leave, and have we had a slight tick up in sick calls? Yes, and then you’ll see delays that come from that,” Duffy told reporters at Newark Liberty International Airport.

“Our priorities are safety. And so, if we have additional sick calls, we will reduce the flow consistent with a rate that’s safe for the American people,” he said.

An FAA spokesperson Monday evening referred to Duffy’s earlier comments when asked about staffing at Burbank.

“As Secretary Duffy said, there have been increased staffing shortages across the system. When that happens, the FAA slows traffic into some airports to ensure safe operations,” the FAA spokesperson said.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association union pointed to a national shortage of air traffic controllers. Officials have warned about that shortage before the federal government shut down.

“It is normal for a few air traffic controllers to call in sick on any given day, and this is the latest example of how fragile our aviation system is in the midst of a national shortage of these critical safety professionals,” the union said.

Follow along for live updates.

Follow along for live updates.

The superintendent of the largest public school district in Iowa was arrested Friday by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which alleged he was in the country illegally and without a work authorization.

Ian Andre Roberts, a Guyana national and superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, was arrested in an operation, ICE announced in a news release.

Roberts has helmed the district since July 2023, according to its website. It described him as a “career educator” with more than two decades of experience as a teacher, administrator and executive leader. He previously served as superintendent in two districts in Pennsylvania and Missouri.

Roberts worked as superintendent in Iowa despite not having legal status and despite having a “final order of removal and no work authorization,” the ICE news release said.

He had entered the U.S. in 1999 on a student visa, and was given a final order of removal by an immigration judge in May 2024, ICE said.

Roberts had existing weapon possession charges from Feb. 5, 2020, according to the release.

Agents approached Roberts on Friday in his vehicle after he identified himself, but he drove off, ICE said. The vehicle was later found near a wooded area, and Iowa State Patrol then assisted in the search for him Friday morning, and he was ultimately taken into custody, the release said.

The Iowa Department of Public Safety said it assisted ICE finding a person, identified as Roberts, who fled from a traffic stop.

At the time of his arrest he was found in possession of a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash and a fixed blade hunting knife, ICE said.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives will handle the investigation into how Roberts acquired a handgun, ICE said, noting it’s against federal law for people in the United States without legal status to possess a firearm and ammunition.

“This suspect was arrested in possession of a loaded weapon in a vehicle provided by Des Moines Public Schools after fleeing federal law enforcement,” Sam Olson, director of the ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations St. Paul Field Office, said in a statement. “How this illegal alien was hired without work authorization, a final order of removal, and a prior weapons charge is beyond comprehension and should alarm the parents of that school district.”

It’s not immediately clear whether Roberts has retained an attorney.

Des Moines School Board Chair Jackie Norris confirmed that Roberts was detained by ICE agents Friday morning. At a news conference, she asked for the community to practice “radical empathy.”

The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners issued Roberts a license to serve as superintendent in the state in July 2023, Norris said.

He was identified as a candidate for the job in a search by an outside consulting company and underwent a third-party comprehensive background check, the district said in a Friday evening statement. He had also completed the I-9 employment eligibility verification form and submitted required documentation to work, it said.

Roberts had a previous firearm charge related to a hunting rifle, which he disclosed to the district board during the hiring process, the district said.

“He provided sufficient context and explanation of the situation to move forward in the hiring process. He has also spoken publicly about this experience,” the district said.

The district said that it did not have any knowledge of the 2024 removal order and that ICE did not notify the district about Roberts’ detainment before or after the fact.

Norris said that while the district does not have all the facts, she affirmed Roberts has been “an integral part of our school community” since he joined. She also noted that he’s held educational leadership positions in districts across the country for 20 years.

“We stand firm with our community, many of whom are feeling sad, outraged and helpless. We understand as we too are devastated by the news of his detainment,” interim Superintendent Matt Smith said at the news conference.

Roberts’ biography on the district’s website stated that he was chosen as superintendent following “an extensive nationwide search based on a leadership profile developed with input from the school board, teachers, families and others in the school community.”

It said he was born to immigrant parents from Guyana and spent most of his “formative years” in Brooklyn, New York.

“Dr. Roberts is married, and enjoys hunting, reading, and spending time with family and friends,” the biography said.

He earned his bachelor’s from Coppin State University, master’s degrees from St. John’s University and Georgetown University, and received his doctorate in urban educational leadership from Trident University. He also has several education certificates, including one from Harvard University, the biography said.

Separately, he was an Olympian, competing in track and field at the 2000 Games in Sydney, and in the World Championships in Maebashi, Japan and Seville, Spain, according to the website.

Matthew Mata contributed.

Jimmy Kimmel will soon be back on the air.

His late-night talk show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” — which Disney suspended following the host’s comments about the Charlie Kirk assassination — will return to ABC on Tuesday, the company announced.

“We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday,” said a statement from the network.

The announcement came following days of backlash from those who viewed the suspension as a threat to freedom of speech – which included an open letter from more than 400 celebrities released Monday by the American Civil Liberties Union.

Celebrities, politicians and many others reacted to the news of Kimmel’s return, with some supportive of the host and others criticizing the decision to put him back on the air.

“Cannot wait to hear @JimmyKimmel’s monologue tomorrow,” comedian and former talks how host Ellen DeGeneres wrote on Instagram.

Actor Ben Stiller posted celebratory emojis on X.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom called out Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr.

“Thank you to everyone but @BrendanCarrFCC. This is a win for free speech everywhere,” he wrote on X.

Actor Mark Hamill, in a post on Threads, shared a screenshot of story with the headline “KIMMEL BACK!”

“Meltdown on ‘Truth’ Social in 5… 4… 3… 2…”, he wrote.

“Protest matters. Use your voice,” actor Alyssa Milano wrote on Instagram.

Actor Rosie O’Donnell wrote “the sun will come out – tomorrow #jimmykimmellive” in an Instagram caption.

Author Don Winslow wrote that Kimmel’s return was the result of Disney’s financial loss.

Senator Chuck Schumer wrote, “This is about fighting for free speech and against these abuses by Donald Trump and Brendan Carr.”

Comedian Gianmarco Soresi joked that Kimmel’s suspension and return to air could result in a ratings boost.

Not all celebrated Kimmel’s return.

ABC suspended Kimmel indefinitely on Wednesday after comments he made about Kirk, who was killed Sept. 10. Kimmel said “many in MAGA land are working very hard to capitalize on the murder of Charlie Kirk” and that “the MAGA gang” was “desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them.”

Backlash to Kimmel’s comments was swift. Nexstar and Sinclair, two of ABC’s largest affiliate owners, said they would be pulling “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” from their stations.

ABC announced the suspension later that day — and, five days later, announced Kimmel’s return.

Media personality Piers Morgan, in response to Kimmel’s return to the air, wrote: “So, Kimmel wasn’t cancelled by Trump or the FCC after all – but temporarily suspended by his employer because they thought what he said was ill-timed and insensitive.”

Former Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly and conservative commentator Matt Walsh both mentioned Kimmel’s brief suspension.

Andrew Kolvet, spokesman for Turning Point USA, the conservative organization founded by Charlie Kirk, called for Nextstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group, which own many ABC affiliate stations, to refuse to broadcast Kimmel’s show.

“Disney and ABC caving and allowing Kimmell back on the air is not surprising, but it’s their mistake to make. Nextstar and Sinclair do not have to make the same choice,” he wrote.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

The UEFA Champions League is back.

With the league-phase draw set in stone, 36 teams will undergo an eight-game journey toward the knockout stages and, eventually, the final of the world’s premier club soccer tournament.

Paris Saint-Germain brought the trophy to France for the first time ever last season, but repeating won’t be easy given how other contenders have retooled.

Five of the Premier League’s “Bix 6” clubs are also involved after Tottenham won the Europa League. Manchester United, who lost to Spurs, are not in any European competition this season.

So, who are the key teams to keep tabs on and how can you watch the games? Here’s what to know for the 2025-26 UCL league phase:

How long is the Champions League league phase?

The eight-game league phase will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 16. The final games before the playoff round is set for Wednesday, Jan. 28, when all games will air simultaneously.

Does the Champions League league-phase table matter?

As long as you’re in the last 16, not necessarily. But it can play a factor. The top eight teams advance automatically to the round of 16, while the next 16 teams will compete in the round of 32, meaning an extra two games to an already-packed calendar.

PSG had to play such games after finishing 15th in the league last year, but benefitted from competing in a weaker Ligue 1 that allowed for better squad rotation.

Barcelona, Arsenal and Inter, which finished second through fourth, respectively, all made the semifinals.

What is the 2025-26 Champions League fixture schedule?

The league-phase schedule features multiple marquee matchups, such as Bayern Munich vs. Chelsea, Barcelona vs. PSG, Liverpool vs. Real Madrid and Arsenal vs. Inter, among others.

The full schedule can be viewed here.

Who are the 2025-26 Champions League favorites?

While there is no clear-cut favorite, PSG have to be in the conversation. Les Bleus didn’t make too many changes to the trophy-collecting squad from last season, which could help in the tougher legs under Luis Enrique. They’ll need to manage injuries well, however.

Real Madrid should also bounce back under new manager Xabi Alonso. New signings Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen and Álvaro Carreras could be instrumental in shoring up the defense. Fellow Spanish side Barcelona were semifinalists last season, and Lamine Yamal and Raphinha just keep upgrading their games on the flanks.

From the Premier League, Liverpool splashed nearly $500 million in the transfer window after breaking the English transfer fee record twice — the first time on attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz, then striker Alexander Isak. With Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk still playing at a high level, the Reds cannot be counted out.

Arsenal are another team now built to succeed in the tournament following a semifinal run last season despite numerous key injuries. While the injuries are still a lingering issue, the Gunners loaded up on depth with the signings of striker Viktor Gyokeres, winger Noni Madueke, attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze, defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi and center-back Cristhian Mosquera, among others.

Italy, which saw Inter make the final, will likely struggle to see a representative in the later stages while Germany’s lone chance is Bayern Munich — and even that may be a tough sell.

Are there any underdogs to watch in the 2025-26 Champions League?

After the favorites, the question may come down to possible sleeper teams. Keep eyes on Chelsea, the reigning Club World Cup winners. While the Blues have been iffy in league play, their performance in European competitions typically fare better. Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo, Joao Pedro and Reese James are among some players who could play a factor.

In Italy, Napoli could play sleeper with the additions of Kevin De Bruyne, Rasmus Hojlund, Lorenzo Lucca, Vanja Milinković-Savić and Noa Lang, among others. Scott McTominay has also rebounded his game as a Ballon d’Or nominee following the team’s recent Scudetto win.

La Liga side Atletico Madrid also made heavy investments into Diego Simeone’s squad. Alex Baena, David Hancko, Johnny Cardoso, Giacomo Raspadori, Thiago Almada, Matteo Ruggeri and Marc Pubill are among the notable additions. While the overall individual quality may be in question, Simeone’s teams are always a tough out in the knockout rounds thanks to his defensive tactics.

Where to watch 2025-26 Champions League games online, on TV

Paramount+ and CBS Sports is the U.S. broadcast and streaming partner for the tournament through 2026.

When is the 2026 Champions League final?

The Champions League final is slated for May 30, 2026 and will be held at the Puskas Arana in Budapest, Hungary.