Tonight’s Sports Open Line is shortened to make room for KMOX’s broadcast of the first SLU basketball game of the season. Matt Pauley shares today’s big news across major league baseball: The Chicago Cubs have hired former Brewers manager Craig Counsell as manager, making him the highest paid manager in baseball; the Cleveland Guardians have hired Stephen Vogt as manager; and the New York Mets have hired former Yankees bench coach Carlos Mendoza as manager. Also: St. Louis City SC have been eliminated from the MLS Cup Playoffs after two losses in Round One to cross-state rivals Sporting KC. To elaborate, radio announcer Joey Zanaboni joins the program to reflect on this year's impressive season but disappointing climax.

Sports Open Line with Matt Pauley airs weeknights 6-8PM CT on KMOX barring any Cardinals, Billikens, or NFL games. Join the show by calling or texting (314) 436-7900 or by tweeting to Matt @MattPauleyOnAir. Listen live at 1120AM, 98.7FM, or on the free Audacy app.