What happened: MLB Network analysts on MLB Tonight credited William Contreras, who tied NLCS Game 2 with a first-inning homer, for driving his club's postseason run both at the plate and behind the dish. The panel pointed to the catcher's energy and defense as the catalyst for the lineup during the League Championship Series.

Why it matters: Two-way production from the catching spot carries outsized weight in October series play, where game-calling, receiving, and middle-of-the-order power directly swing tight postseason innings.

What to watch: Contreras remains central to the club's pitch-calling and offensive attack as the NLCS continues.