2021 MLB World Series predictions: Experts split on Atlanta Braves vs. Houston Astros in Fall Classic  —  The 2021 World Series between the Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves begins Tuesday at Minute Maid Park with the two teams squaring off for Major League Baseball's ultimate prize.

Los Angeles Dodgers face lingering questions amid critical offseason  —  The Los Angeles Dodgers' attempt to defend their World Series crown ended in heartbreaking fashion Saturday at Truist Park.  The Dodgers were vanquished by the Atlanta Braves in six games during the National League Championship Series.

Padres have interviewed Rojas, Shildt; close to hiring pitching coach  —  Padres interview two dismissed managers as they work to replace Jayce Tingler  —  The Padres have completed two managerial interviews and are believed to have agreed to terms with a pitching coach.

Rockies shake up staff, replace Steve Foster with Darryl Scott: Sources  —  The Rockies shook up their major-league coaching staff for the first time in several years, moving pitching coach Steve Foster off the bench and replacing him with bullpen coach Darryl Scott, sources confirmed to The Athletic on Monday night.

Major League Baseball work stoppage almost certain on Dec. 2  —  HOUSTON (AP) — Baseball's ninth work stoppage and first in 26 years appears almost certain to start Dec. 2, freezing the free-agent market and threatening the start of spring training in February.

Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. assumes “dream come true” ownership stake in Seattle Mariners group  —  SEATTLE — Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. is investing in the Seattle Mariners in a way he never has before.  —  He'll be part of the ownership going forward.

Silver Slugger Award finalists announced  —  The best hitters in baseball were recognized on Monday when the finalists for the Silver Slugger Award were announced by Louisville Slugger.  —  The award recognizes the best offensive performers at each position in each league.

St. Louis Cardinals plan to hire bench coach Oliver Marmol, 35, as next manager, sources say  —  The St. Louis Cardinals plan to hire Oliver Marmol as their new manager, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan on Sunday night, confirming an earlier report.  —  Marmol, 35, served as St. Louis' bench coach …

St. Petersburg man gets 600th Tom Brady touchdown ball, gives it back  —  The Bucs quarterback used the ball to throw his milestone pass.  It's believed to be priceless.  —  Updated Earlier today  —  TAMPA — Bedecked in an old school Mike Evans No. 13 jersey, Byron Kennedy was standing …

Trail Blazers and Chauncey Billups create a ‘beautiful’ night in Portland  —  It was almost perfect.  So much so that Chauncey Billups called what the Trail Blazers did on Saturday “beautiful.”  —  They shared the ball.  For long stretches, it seemed they couldn't miss. And on defense — oh my.