What happened: Cleveland left Slade Cecconi off its ALDS roster ahead of Saturday's opener. Stephen Vogt said the move came out of a broader round of difficult roster decisions as the club set its postseason group.

Why it matters: Postseason roster calls carry more weight in a short series because each pitching spot can reshape matchup plans and bullpen usage from the first game. The choice also lands on a club where Vogt has guided Cleveland to three straight playoff appearances, raising the stakes on every October roster decision.

What to watch: Game 1 against the White Sox will show how Cleveland plans to Pregame roster and pitching usage should offer the clearest read on how Vogt wants this series managed.