What happened: Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy called Brandon Woodruff during his drive home to deliver the official nod for the World Series roster. Woodruff thanked Murphy for the opportunity and told club brass he did not want a ceremonial spot, backing his ability to record outs whenever called upon.

Why it matters: Carrying Woodruff gives Milwaukee an experienced pitching option as the franchise prepares to host the Fall Classic before the series opener gets underway. After returning to the injured list with an inflamed labrum earlier in the season, his activation bolsters the pitching staff's depth for the championship matchup.

What to watch: How Murphy deploys Woodruff once the scheduled World Series opener gets underway will clarify the right-hander's role for the series.