What happened: A viral Halloween package-theft joke centered on dressing up as Mike Vasil ahead of October 31. The offseason nod follows Vasil adding unofficial hitting-coach and clubhouse nicknames earlier on October 28.

Why it matters: Vasil carved out a prominent off-field presence while working through Tommy John rehabilitation in 2026. His dugout energy before Game 5 and support for teammates earned him a clubhouse MVP nod without throwing a pitch.

What to watch: Vasil continues his recovery progression from elbow reconstruction heading into the offseason.