What happened: Boston assistant general manager Taylor Smith remains a top candidate to take over as head of baseball operations for the Athletics. Cardinals assistant general manager Rob Cerfolio, another finalist, is expected to remain with St. Louis.

Why it matters: The Athletics are continuing their search for a new head of baseball operations after expanding their candidate pool. With Cerfolio reportedly out of the running, Smith is positioned as a primary target for the leadership vacancy.

What to watch: Watch for the Athletics to formally announce their new head of baseball operations in the coming days.