The newly formatted MLB playoffs begin Friday with four wild-card series. Four other teams received first-round byes. While the rosters for the wild-card round are yet to be finalized, multiple former Anglers are in line to make contributions this October.

Alek Manoah (Chatham '18)

Manoah was one of the No. 4 seed Blue Jays' workhorses this season, logging a 2.24 ERA over 31 starts and 196.2 innings. Manoah's ERA was the third-lowest in the American League among qualified pitchers, while his 180 strikeouts were 12th. Manoah has been named the Blue Jays' Game 1 starter for their wild-card series against the Mariners.

Whit Merrifield (Chatham '09)

Merrifield was moved to the Blue Jays at the trade deadline in August and will now be a part of their playoff run this October. The veteran infielder hit .281 in 44 games with Toronto in the regular season.

Jeremy Pe'a (Chatham '17)

Pe'a manned shortstop for the American League's top-seeded Astros in his rookie campaign. The 25-year-old hit .253 with 22 home runs. As one of the American League's top two seeds, Houston earned a bye in the wild-card round and will face the winner of Seattle and Toronto's series.

James Karinchak (Chatham '16)

One of baseball's best relievers, Karinchak should play a significant role in the No. 3 seed Cleveland's playoff run. The righty struck out 62 batters in 39 innings while pitching to a 2.08 ERA over 38 appearances. Cleveland will host the Rays.

Collin McHugh (Chatham '07)

McHugh excelled as a reliever in Atlanta and should maintain a similar role in the playoffs. The right-hander recorded a 2.60 ERA through 58 games. He punched out 75 batters in 69.1 innings. Atlanta holds the second seed in the National League, earning a bye in the wild-card series. Atlanta will play the winner of the Phillies and Cardinals' series.

Andre Pallante (Chatham '17-18)

Pallante appeared in 47 games ' making 10 starts ' for the Cardinals, who will host the Phillies in the wild-card series. Pallante finished the regular season with a 3.17 ERA. He is expected to come out of the bullpen in the playoffs.