What happened: Longtime Los Angeles Dodgers general manager Fred Claire has died. Bob Nightengale paid tribute, saying he used lengthy final text exchanges to tell Claire about the impact he made on many people.

Why it matters: Claire guided the Dodgers front office through a defining era for the franchise. His death removes a direct link to that leadership generation while the club plays October baseball.

What to watch: Expect the Dodgers and MLB to announce remembrances. Memorial details are to follow.