What happened: Major League Baseball's early offseason period commenced with front offices evaluating qualifying offers and finalizing 40-man rosters. Former Astros general manager Dana Brown returned to the Braves as a senior advisor in scouting, while clubs began reinstating players from the 60-day injured list. The San Francisco Giants face one of the league's steepest roster pinches, needing to clear space for a large contingent of recovering veterans.

Why it matters: Roster management before the 60-day injured list deadline forces tough decisions on outright waivers and depth pieces. San Francisco must protect core contributors, including Matt Chapman, while trimming marginal spots to remain compliant. Meanwhile, qualifying offers dictate the draft-pick compensation market for elite free agents who decline one-year tenders.

What to watch: Teams have five days following the conclusion of the World Series to issue qualifying offers to eligible free agents. Players then receive a multi-day window to accept the one-year tender or test the open market.