What happened: Mike Vasil provided pregame energy ahead of a win-or-go-home Game 5 on Saturday. The sidelined pitcher stepped into a morale-boosting role before the decisive contest.

Why it matters: Maintaining a loose clubhouse environment is often prioritized during high-stakes elimination scenarios. Support from injured depth players can help alleviate the mounting pressure of the postseason.

What to watch: The roster looks to advance to the Championship Series with a decisive evening victory.